One Piece Episode 1081: Shanks' Quest for the One Piece, Samurai Under Attack, and Sabo's Rise as the Flame Emperor

In the previous episode, Ryokugyu effortlessly defeated Kaido's former crewmates who had posed a significant challenge for Zoro and Sanji. Despite their injuries, these adversaries were no pushovers, highlighting the Admiral's immense power. Given Luffy's recent awakening and ongoing recovery, his encounter with the relentless pursuit of the Admiral could potentially lead to disastrous consequences.

Luffy makes more rivals in One Piece episode 1081

Shanks' new goal

Shanks as seen in One Piece episode 1081 (Image via Toei)

One Piece episode 1081 started off on the Wano coast, with Shanks gleaming with pride as he looked at Luffy's newest wanted poster, remembering their previous encounter when Luffy was a mere child.

Nevertheless, Shanks made it clear to his crew that he had no desire to meet Luffy, citing incidents like Bartolomeo masquerading as a Straw Hat representative and burning their flag. Meeting the Straw Hats was therefore off the table in order to uphold a favorable reputation.

Shanks, however, later told Benn Beckman that it was time for them to claim the One Piece.

The fight against Ryokugyu

In the latest One Piece episode, episode 1081, a captivating image captured a glimpse of Ryokugyu (Image via Toei).

Meanwhile, in the lively atmosphere of Wano, a grand banquet was underway, with even the Straw Hats fully immersed in the joyous festivities. However, amidst the revelry, Denjiro, Inuarashi, Nekomamushi, Shinobu, Raizo, and Kawamatsu became aware of Ryokugyu's presence and bravely confronted him.

Interestingly, during the confrontation, Ryokugyu demonstrated his formidable Logia type Woods-Woods Devil Fruit abilities. In the midst of his attacks, he conveyed to the samurai the notion that the World Nobles, believed to be deities, held absolute authority, while stressing that unaffiliated territories like Wano had no rightful autonomy. Asserting the existence of hierarchies within humanity, he argued that the subjugation of minorities was a necessary sacrifice for the betterment of the majority.

Yamato as seen in One Piece episode 1081 (Image via Toei)

In One Piece episode 1081, Yamato made a dramatic entrance and confronted Ryokugyu after being angered by what he had heard. Without any hesitation, Yamato launched an attack on the Admiral, determined to protect the banquet from any interference. Ryokugyu was astonished by Yamato's powerful Haki and his revelation as Kaido's son.

Meanwhile, Momonosuke attempted to join the fight but proved ineffective against Ryokugyu's strength. As he found himself trapped in the branches of the Admiral, Momonosuke begged Yamato to cease fighting and reconsider their actions.

Sabo's actions at Marie Geois

Kuroma as seen in One Piece episode 1081 (Image via Toei)

Meanwhile, in One Piece episode 1081, Kuroma informed Akainu that Sabo had initiated war against the Celestial Dragons by attacking their symbol located at Marie Geois. Kuroma further conveyed how Sabo had successfully liberated Kuma during the Reverie but had also committed the act of assassinating King Cobra of Alabasta.

Sabo's bold action of targeting a descendant of the founding members of the World Government had propelled him to the honored status of a hero among the masses. He had now gained immense influence and recognition as the Flame Emperor, even surpassing the legendary Dragon. The mysterious disappearance of Princess Vivi, coinciding with her father's untimely demise, also raised suspicions regarding Sabo's involvement.

One Piece episode 1080 recap

The Five Elders as seen in the anime (Image via Toei)

In the previous episode, the anger of the Five Elders grew upon seeing Luffy's new bounty image, which displayed his powerful Gear 5 form. Their intention was to erase the "D" from his name, but they were unable to reach the printing company managed by Morgans. As a result, the public became aware of the news regarding the defeat of Kaido and Big Mom, the infiltration of Wano by CP0, and additional significant developments.

Meanwhile, Robin made an intriguing discovery when she stumbled upon yet another Poneglyph in the room where Tenguyama Hitetsu had been confined. Following this revelation, Tenguyama, also known as Kozuki Sukiyaki, the former ruler of Wano and the individual responsible for bringing Orochi to power, introduced himself. It was through him that Robin was informed about the presence of the ancient weapon Pluton in Wano.

In Udon, Admiral Ryokugyu attacked Kaido's former crewmates. Next, he sought to capture Luffy to gain Akainu's recognition.