Spoiler Alert !!!This article contains some spoilers from One Piece manga.

Who is the strongest Yonko in One Piece? This debate has been going on in the fandom for years; however, it looks like Eiichiro Oda might have finally given a hint about it in the recent chapters with Loki vs Imu’s clash. Previously, in One Piece Chapter 1181, we saw Loki going all out against Imu with his terrifying abilities, including his dragon transformation.

However, despite all these, it indirectly elevated Shanks to an entirely different level when you remember that Shanks was supposedly able to stop Loki relatively easily. Let us explore in detail.

Series TitleOne PieceManga AuthorEiichiro OdaChapter 1182 Release Date (US)May 10, 2026Manga Rating (Mal) – as of May 7, 20269.21 / 10Where to ReadManga Plus by Shueisha, Viz Media

Loki vs Imu Quietly Established Shanks Above the Current Yonko

The foundation for this revelation was set up long ago within the Elbaf Arc. In Chapter 1136, Elder Jarul disclosed that Shanks captured Loki six years ago while the Prince Loki was on one of his destructive rampages after the death of King Harald.

Credit: Shueisha

Credit: Shueisha

Credit: Toei Animation

Further on, in Chapter 1139, Scopper Gaban emphasized the importance of this revelation by disclosing that no one throughout history has ever succeeded in stopping Loki except Shanks. This detail alone was already enough, as Loki was consistently described as an entity powerful enough to destroy the world. However, One Piece Chapter 1181 turned everything around.

While fighting against Imu, Loki displayed unbelievable strength and endurance. He survived devastating attacks from Imu and even managed to push back against the ruler of the world for a brief period. Oda clearly portrayed Imu as one of the most dangerous entities in the entire series, making Loki’s accomplishment rather impressive.

However, this also brings out another key detail that remains unavoidable – Shanks had already defeated Loki years earlier. This creates a very deliberate hierarchy in the narrative. If Loki can go head-to-head with the King of the World, then the one who once defeated him should definitely be included among the strongest beings.

While Oda has not explicitly stated that Shanks is the most powerful of the Yonkos, it certainly becomes clearer with the recent chapters. What makes this portrayal even more significant is that Shanks achieved all this without relying on an overpowered Devil Fruit. Unlike several top-tier characters in the Final Saga, Shanks still relies entirely on Haki and swordsmanship.

One Piece Keeps Hinting That Shanks Exists on Another Level

It is not the first time that Oda has hinted at Shanks’ supremacy. For years now, Oda has portrayed him differently from the other Emperors.

Shanks from One Piece. | Credit: Toei Animation

His Conqueror’s Haki is perhaps the most powerful one currently, as seen in his intimidation of Admiral Ryokugyu, even when he was still far off, and his quick defeat of Eustass Kid with a single Divine Departure attack.

On the other hand, the other Yonko still carry noticeable limitations. Luffy might be extremely powerful due to Gear 5, but struggles with stamina and consistency. Blackbeard is still actively searching for greater power, suggesting even he himself believes that he has not reached his peak yet.

As for Buggy, his Yonko status exists more as a comedic narrative twist than a genuine representation of strength. In comparison, Shanks seems to have achieved everything he needs to achieve as a character. Throughout the series, Oda presents him as the balancing force of the seas – someone who is respected by the pirates, Marines, and even the World Government.

While the others are still growing stronger, Shanks already feels like a complete legend. And after Loki’s clash with Imu, that portrayal feels harder to ignore than ever before.

Here are some of the frequently asked questions fans may have –

When will One Piece Chapter 1182 officially release?

One Piece Chapter 1182 is officially scheduled to release on May 10, 2026, internationally.

Is Shanks connected to the Figarland family?

Yes, Shanks belongs to the powerful Figarland bloodline in One Piece.

Who is Figarland Shamrock in One Piece?

Figarland Shamrock is the son of Saint Figarland Garling and the identical twin brother of Shanks.

So now the big news – could Oda be preparing Shanks for one final display that fully confirms him as the strongest Emperor before the Final Saga reaches its climax? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

One Piece manga is currently available to read on Manga Plus by Shueisha.
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