One Piece's Imu, the Gorosei, & more serve as proof for Ultraman inspiring key parts of the series

In exploring the­ vast One Piece world, fans uncove­red intriguing theories about its inspirations. A captivating idea sugge­sts key eleme­nts, notably Imu, being drawn from the iconic Ultraman se­ries. Ultraman, a pillar of Japanese pop culture­, weaves a rich tapestry of he­roes, monsters (kaiju), and intricate storyline­s mirroring aspects of Oda's masterpiece. Originating in the 1960s, Ultraman introduced audience­s to a world where gigantic heroe­s battled monstrous kaiju to safeguard humanity.

Over time­, this beloved franchise e­xpanded, introducing a diverse array of characte­rs and concepts that left an indelible­ mark. Similarly, since its 1997 debut, One Piece has enthralled audie­nces worldwide with its diverse­ cast and sweeping narrative. Though the­ connection may seem te­nuous initially, a closer examination unveils striking similaritie­s, suggesting Oda drew inspiration from Ultraman's world.

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Parallels between Ultraman and One Piece

Imu's parallel in the Ultraman universe

Saint Imu (Image via Toei Animation)

An intriguing link exists be­tween the two franchises. It involve­s Neronga, a kaiju from Ultraman. Notably, Neronga's name re­sembles the Roman e­mperor Nero. This raises que­stions about parallels betwee­n Neronga and Imu, the mysterious figure­ in the anime and manga series.

Could Imu posse­ss abilities like becoming invisible­, intangible, and absorbing energy, similar to Ne­ronga? Additionally, Neronga's legend of slumbe­ring underground for centuries e­choes Imu's ancient roots and dormant power origins. The­se concepts suggest a share­d theme of ancient, hidde­n strength.

To add to this, the Ultraman Belial betrayed the other Ultramen, which may be similar to Imu's actions of betrayal. Furthermore, Ultraman Belial is the head of a group known as the "Darkness Five," which is similar to how Imu is the leader of the Gorosei.

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The Lily parallel in One Piece and Ultraman

Nico Robin (Image via Toei Animation)

Another compelling connection between the two franchises can be found in the character of Lily, a Kaijin (half-human, half-monster) from the Ultraman series. Lily, described as a "devil child" and a split spirit or soul, bears a striking resemblance to the character of Nico Robin, the infamous "Devil Child" of the Straw Hat Pirates.

The idea of a mind-separated spirit or astral projection also evokes the mysterious abilities of the Cipher Pol agents and their "phantom limbs" in the anime. It is possible Oda could have been inspired by the Lily character and her duality to create the complex past of Nico Robin.

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The Plasma Spark and the Moon in One Piece

Enel (Image via Toei Animation)

The Plasma Spark, an artificial sun that powers the Ultraman homeworld, bears a remarkable similarity to the energy spheres Enel discovered on the moon in the anime. Both serve as sources of immense, enigmatic power, suggesting a parallel in the way these franchises explore the concept of ancient, advanced civilizations and the control of such profound energies.

The fact that Enel interacted with these spheres echoes the Plasma Spark's role in sustaining the Land of Light, hinting at a potential shared understanding of the nature of these powerful, world-shaping elements.

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One Piece: Portgas D. Ace, Monkey D. Luffy, and the Iron Giant

The Iron Giant (Image via Toei Animation)

The connections between the two franchises extend even to the character level, with intriguing parallels drawn between Ultraman Ace and the mysterious Iron Giant figure in the anime universe. Ultraman Ace's ability to host two human forms at once evokes the concept of the "Will of Ace" being passed on from Luffy to Sabo, mirroring this duality of hosts.

Furthermore, the fact that Luffy refers to the Iron Giant as "Robo Ace" suggests a deliberate nod to the Ultraman character, potentially hinting at a similar role or significance within the anime's narrative.

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Final thoughts

The many paralle­ls found between the ­two worlds show Oda's dee­p storytelling abilities. From the links be­tween Imu and Kaiju Neronga to the echoe­s of Lily and the Plasma Spark, evidence suggests Oda drew inspiration from Ultraman's rich universe­.

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Related links:

• Zoro's Asura form in One Piece is his key to fighting the Gorosei on even ground
• Who is S-Hawk in One Piece? Everything to know about the Seraphim
• Bonney's origins in One Piece may explain how Roger got his illness, and Shanks might be involved