Imu will be Luffy’s final enemy in One Piece, and it’s obvious why

Within One Piece's immense and intricate realm, innumerable foes confront Monkey D. Luffy on his journey to become the Pirate King. However, Imu, the enigmatic ruler of the world, stands above them all.

Imu is the mysterious entity controlling the World Government, holding the most powerful military force, and having possibly mastered the skills that make the greatest warriors in the series. Imu's influence and power, which are connected to the ancient Void Century and Joyboy's defeat, make them the ultimate challenge that Luffy must confront at the conclusion of his epic journey.

One Piece: Understanding why Imu will be Monkey D. Luffy's final opponent

A close-up shot of Saint Imu (Image via Toei Animation)

Imu, the enigmatic ruler of the world in One Piece, will inevitably be Luffy's final opponent, and for good reason. Evidence throughout the series hints at Imu’s unparalleled power and influence, positioning them as a foe far beyond any pirate or marine, even Blackbeard. Here’s why Imu stands as the ultimate challenge for Luffy at the end of his journey.

One Piece: Imu had defeated Joyboy in the past

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One of the strongest indications of Imu’s supremacy is their presumed victory over Joyboy, a figure of immense significance in the lore of One Piece. While it remains unclear how much assistance Imu had during the Void Century, the fact that they were able to defeat Joyboy and emerge as the ruler of the world implies they played a critical, possibly central, role.

Imu’s longevity, surviving over 800 years, suggests they were not only the most powerful at that time but also possessed abilities that far exceeded the ordinary person. This alone positions Imu as a foe Luffy must surpass to claim the title of Pirate King and fulfill Joyboy's will.

One Piece: Imu is the master of Haki and is an immortal being

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With over a millennium to hone their skills, it’s almost certain that Imu has mastered every aspect of Haki, surpassing even the most seasoned pirates like Kaido, Big Mom, or Shanks. Haki, the force that defines a person’s strength in the One Piece world, would undoubtedly be at its peak in the hands of someone who has ruled unchallenged for centuries.

Additionally, Imu’s connection to the Ope Ope no Mi, a Devil Fruit capable of granting immortality, suggests they may have already used this power, allowing them to manipulate life and death. The possibility of Imu wielding this fruit further solidifies their status as a near-immortal being with a mastery of life-altering abilities.

***One Piece*: Imu's access to multiple Devil Fruits**

An artificial Devil Fruit (Image via Toei Animation)

Imu’s access to a plethora of Devil Fruits presents another advantage. Given that Imu has ruled the world for centuries, they would have had the opportunity to acquire, control, and perhaps even wield the powers of several Devil Fruits.

With scientific advancements, such as those researched by Vegapunk, Imu may have harnessed technology to replicate or combine these fruits’ powers, making them an even more unpredictable and formidable foe. This ability to utilize multiple Devil Fruit abilities could create a unique challenge for Luffy, who has yet to face an enemy with such a varied and potent arsenal.

One Piece: Hints at Imu's swordsmanship and combat prowess

Imu is speculated to be a master swordsman (Image via Toei Animation)

Imu’s martial prowess is suggested by the swords seen beneath the Empty Throne, hinting that Imu may be skilled in swordsmanship. Given the symbolic importance of weapons in the One Piece world, these swords could signify that Imu regularly trains and maintains their battle readiness.

If Imu possesses a legendary black blade, similar to those wielded by the greatest swordsmen, it would only elevate their threat level. Imu’s potential as a master swordsman and access to Devil Fruit powers would make them a versatile and dangerous opponent.

One Piece: Imu's access to unrivaled technology

Imu’s control over advanced technology, like the Mother Flame, further underscores their dominance. As seen in the series, cutting-edge technology is a game-changer, with Vegapunk, Queen, and even Franky creating astonishing tools of war.

Since Vegapunk operates under the control of the World Government, Imu likely has direct access to the most powerful technological advancements. The Mother Flame, capable of destroying entire islands, showcases the destructive potential at Imu’s command, making them a threat that surpasses even the worst pirates or marine forces.

Imu commands the largest military force in the One Piece world

Imu has the authority to command even the Gorosei (Image via Toei Animation)

Lastly, Imu has the World Government’s massive military force at their disposal. As the ruler behind the scenes, Imu controls the Marines, Cipher Pol, and even the dreaded Seraphim. This vast army outmatches any pirate crew, including Blackbeard’s, in both scale and resources.

While Blackbeard may be a significant antagonist, his forces, which struggled against an aged Garp, pale in comparison to the might of the Marines. Imu’s army and their personal abilities make them the most dangerous force in the anime's world.

Final thoughts

Imu’s unparalleled power, mastery of Haki, access to advanced technology and Devil Fruits, and their command over the largest military force in the world make them the ultimate endgame villain.

Luffy’s journey, intertwined with Joyboy’s legacy, is destined to culminate in a final confrontation with Imu, setting the stage for an epic showdown between the future Pirate King and the hidden ruler of the world.

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