“One Piece”, the enduring manga and anime series by Eiichiro Oda, has always been a treasure trove of mysteries and revelations. Among its most compelling enigmas revolves around Kaido, the formidable former Yonko. Known for his immense strength and hailed as ‘the world’s strongest creature’, Kaido’s abilities have long been a topic of intense speculation among fans.
However, a recent development in the series has turned the tables on what we thought we knew about him. The latest chapters confirm a startling truth: Kaido never actually awakened his Devil Fruit, a revelation that redefines the power dynamics of the series.
The Devil Fruit Conundrum
In the world of “One Piece”, Devil Fruits are mystical items granting extraordinary powers. The pinnacle of these powers, known as ‘awakening’, significantly enhances the abilities of the user. While many assumed that Kaido, with his fearsome reputation, had reached this level, the narrative suggests otherwise. His reliance on Haki and a belief in its supremacy over Devil Fruits seems to have steered him away from exploring the full extent of his Devil Fruit capabilities.
The Turning Point: Luffy vs. Lucci
Chapter #1069 serves as a pivotal moment in unraveling this mystery. Here, Luffy’s encounter with Rob Lucci, an old adversary, sheds light on the nature of awakened Devil Fruits. Lucci, who possesses the Neko Neko no Mi, Model: Leopard Zoan-type Devil Fruit, reveals his awakened form, markedly different from Kaido’s displayed abilities. This contrast starkly highlights that Kaido, despite his prowess, never tapped into the awakening of his Uo Uo no Mi, Model: Seiryu Mythical Zoan Devil Fruit.
Kaido’s Philosophy and Its Impact
Kaido’s disdain for Devil Fruit users, as he voiced during his epic battle against Luffy, provides insight into his character. His belief in Haki as the ultimate power is not just a preference but a philosophy. It speaks volumes about his approach to strength and combat. This mindset, coupled with his natural abilities, may have led him to neglect the potential of his Devil Fruit. This revelation adds a new layer to Kaido’s character, painting him as a warrior who values innate strength and willpower over acquired powers.
ONE PIECE: EGGHEAD ARC IS NOW ON NETFLIX
🏴☠️ NEW EPISODES WEEKLY 🏴☠️ pic.twitter.com/yFNOGoktro
— Netflix (@netflix) January 13, 2024
What If Kaido Had Awakened His Devil Fruit?
The question now arises: what if Kaido had fully embraced his Devil Fruit’s potential? The battle at Wano, where Luffy emerged victorious against an unawakened Kaido, could have had a different outcome. While it’s speculative, the enhanced abilities of an awakened Devil Fruit might have tipped the scales in Kaido’s favor. Yet, it’s also conceivable that the very nature of Kaido’s strength lay in his unyielding spirit and physical prowess, independent of any supernatural augmentation.
Beyond the Battle: Understanding Devil Fruits
Eiichiro Oda’s notes, particularly in “Road To Laugh Tale vol. 4”, emphasize ‘the power of imagination’ in relation to Luffy’s awakening. This concept is crucial in understanding Devil Fruits as manifestations of humanity’s desires. Kaido’s apparent indifference to this aspect of his power raises questions about the nature of strength and ambition in the “One Piece” universe. The series continues to explore these themes, keeping fans engrossed and speculating.
The Legacy of “One Piece”
As “One Piece” advances, each chapter adds new dimensions to its rich narrative tapestry. Kaido’s unawakened Devil Fruit is just one of many revelations that keep the series fresh and exciting. The manga, along with its anime adaptation, remains a benchmark in storytelling, captivating audiences worldwide. Its blend of adventure, mystery, and character-driven narratives makes it a cornerstone of modern manga and anime.
