Potential Returns of Former Villains in One Piece
The world of One Piece is renowned for its intricate storytelling and dynamic character arcs. The series frequently reintroduces characters, either through detailed cover stories or cleverly woven narratives within the main storyline. A prime illustration of this is Crocodile, once one of Luffy’s fiercest adversaries, who transitioned into an ally during the Epic Impel Down events and assisted Luffy during the Summit War. Their alliance was forged through a mutual disdain for the World Government.
Since then, Crocodile has reemerged as a significant player within the narrative, currently serving as a co-leader of Cross Guild, a notorious mercenary organization known for placing bounties on marines. If Crocodile can regain his status as a formidable force, there is ample opportunity for other former antagonists to make a dramatic comeback. Below are some villains who have the potential to return to the forefront of the story.
6. Sea Gecko
Current Status: Escaped from Hachinosu
Gecko Moria, the captain of the Thriller Bark Pirates and a former Warlord, experienced crushing defeat at the hands of Kaido, which deeply affected his psyche. In an attempt to cope with loss, he resorted to using zombies to form his pirate crew, believing it would alleviate his grief when they perished. Following a failed execution order by Doflamingo during the Summit War, Moria survived, only to face further betrayal and loss, particularly after the murder of Absalom by the Blackbeard Pirates.
Recently liberated through the efforts of Perona, one of his loyal subordinates, Moria’s next steps remain uncertain. Considering his history as a Warlord and his grievances against the World Government, he might find himself drawn into alliances like Cross Guild.
5. Caesar Clown
Current Status: Co-Founder of NEO MADS
Once an experimental colleague of Vegapunk, Caesar Clown’s distorted moral compass led him down a path of ethical transgressions in pursuit of scientific advancement. Previously working under the notorious Donquixote Doflamingo, he utilized their connections to execute his controversial experiments without consequence. Following Doflamingo’s downfall, Clown was taken captive by the Straw Hats yet subsequently aligned with them for protection during their adventures in Totto Land.
Clown has recently partnered with Vinsmoke Judge, Sanji’s estranged father. This collaboration harkens back to their shared past in the illegal research organization known as MADS. Together, they aim to create a new institute named NEO MADS, hinting at new developments and client opportunities within the narrative.
4. Charlotte Katakuri
Current Status: Captain (?) of the Big Mom Pirates
As the son and chief subordinate of Charlotte Linlin, known as Big Mom, Charlotte Katakuri’s power within the Big Mom Pirates has been palpable. With his mother’s defeat and presumed demise during the Wano arc, Katakuri’s siblings have positioned him as a potential successor, although he faces challenges from his half-brother, Perospero. Despite his villainous origins, Katakuri has shown a sense of honor, demonstrated by his respect for Luffy’s ambitions.
Having recently witnessed a message from Vegapunk along with his siblings, Katakuri finds himself at a crossroads. With his half-sister, Pudding, kidnapped by Blackbeard, he will likely rally his crew to confront the Emperor and may even consider joining forces with Luffy, depending on his mother’s status and his own objectives.
3. Donquixote Doflamingo
Current Status: Incarcerated at Impel Down
Once a World Noble, Donquixote Doflamingo embraced a life of piracy in a bid to reclaim his perceived rightful power. He rose to infamy as a prominent arms dealer in the criminal underworld after successfully orchestrating a coup in Dressrosa. However, after being overthrown by a coalition led by Luffy, he found himself imprisoned.
Now entangled in the notorious Impel Down, Doflamingo remains undeterred and continues to harbor hopes for escape. His potential liberation could serve the interests of the World Government, eager to suppress the sensitive information Doflamingo possesses as an Ex-World Noble. Like Moria, he too may find himself aligned with Cross Guild due to shared grievances against the government.
2. Magellan
Current Status: Vice Warden of Impel Down
As the former Chief Warden of Impel Down, Magellan faced a significant demotion due to a breach orchestrated by Luffy. Overwhelmed by the event, he contemplated drastic actions but ultimately returned to duty under the oversight of his subordinate, Hannyabal, who eagerly took the Chief Warden position.
With the potential of another breakout looming—especially with Doflamingo’s ongoing imprisonment—Magellan may find himself at the center of the action. A breakout could provide him the opportunity for redemption and even a return to his prestigious role, as he is tasked with maintaining order within his own territory.
Conclusion
As the unfolding narrative of One Piece continues to evolve, the possibility of former villains returning adds layers of intrigue and excitement. With established characters like Crocodile taking the lead, the potential for unexpected alliances and power struggles becomes increasingly likely, keeping readers engaged with every twist and turn.
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