One Piece Episode 1085: Unraveling the Connection Between Zoro and the Shimotsuki Clan

In episode 1085 of the One Piece anime, the Straw Hat crew's journey in Wano has reached its conclusion. Determined to liberate the country, Monkey D. Luffy and Roronoa Zoro joined forces with the other Supernovas to confront the formidable Kaido and Big Mom.

Zoro, after demonstrating his prowess against the two Emperors, engaged in a showdown with Kaido's formidable subordinate, the Lunarian survivor King, ultimately emerging victorious. Throughout the battle, the "Pirate Hunter" unleashed his true Haki abilities, demonstrating his growth as a master swordsman.

The connection between Zoro, Ryuma, and the Shimotsuki Family in One Piece

Zoro is embarking on a journey to retrace the footsteps of his ancestor, the legendary "Sword God" Shimotsuki Ryuma. Discover the fascinating connection between Zoro and the Shimotsuki family, a celebration that One Piece author Eiichiro Oda recently honored with a stunning color spread.

The Pirate King's right-hand man, Roronoa Zoro

Roronoa Zoro and Monkey D. Luffy (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Roronoa Zoro is a master swordsman with the goal of surpassing Dracule Mihawk. He is the second-in-command of the Straw Hat Pirates and is considered the second strongest among the Eleven Supernovas, with his strength only being surpassed by Monkey D. Luffy. Zoro has been by Luffy's side from the beginning, serving as his loyal right-hand man and second-in-command, similar to the dynamic between Silvers Rayleigh and Gol D. Roger.

Initially, Zoro made a menacing threat to Luffy, warning that he would kill him if he interfered with his goal to become the World’s Strongest Swordsman. However, their relationship evolved into a strong partnership, with Zoro being the only Straw Hat crew member who comes close to matching Luffy's power. As a result, Zoro often supports and defends the captain.

Luffy and Zoro throughout the One Piece story (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

During the events in Thriller Bark and the Onigashima Raid, Zoro courageously risked his life to save Luffy, showcasing his unwavering devotion. In return, Luffy wholeheartedly trusts in Zoro's abilities as his right-hand man.

With the rare ability to wield all three types of Haki, Zoro is even capable of unleashing the formidable Advanced Conqueror's Haki, highlighting his exceptional combat skills. Zoro steadily inches closer to the level required to challenge Mihawk and his unmatched Black Blade.

Zoro is known for his honor and loyalty, traits he likely inherited from his Shimotsuki ancestors. The clan's name translates to "the month of frost," representing November in the traditional Japanese calendar.

Interestingly, "Shimotsuki" can also be interpreted as "Samurai." In keeping with Oda's use of number symbolism, the renowned Shimotsuki clansman and samurai, Ryuma, was born on November 6, while Zoro's birthday falls on November 11.

Zoro and "Sword God" Ryuma

Ryuma and Zoro are strikingly similar (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Ryuma and Zoro are nearly identical in terms of aesthetics, with the only distinction being the color of their hair. Wano natives Hyogoro and Kawamatsu noted that Zoro's appearance and fighting style are reminiscent of Shimotsuki Ushimaru, a descendant of Ryuma. They also saw Zoro returning Ryuma's sword, Shusui, to Wano as a fateful sign and recognized the "Pirate Hunter" as the legendary samurai's successor.

Ryuma, featured in One Piece, also appeared in the one-shot Monsters. According to Oda, the creator, the Ryuma in One Piece is the same character depicted in Monsters. In Volume 47's SBS, Oda confirmed that the content of Monsters, including Ryuma's character, is part of One Piece's canon. In Monsters, Ryuma easily defeated Cyrano, a renowned swordsman, and killed a massive dragon.

Renowned as the "Sword God," Ryuma is hailed as Wano's ultimate legend (Image via Shueisha/Colored by JLjarx). His unmatched skill with a sword positions him as potentially the most powerful swordsman in the history of the One Piece universe. Centuries ago, Ryuma stood alone in safeguarding Wano from both pirates and World Nobles, thwarting their attempts to conquer the land.

Ryuma’s incredible achievements led to him being known as the “Sword God,” a warrior capable of ending any battle with just one strike. He was revered as "The King," the most formidable fighter in the world. Not even Kozuki Oden, a man powerful enough to rival Kaido and earn the respect of Roger and Whitebeard, was deemed suitable to take Ryuma’s place as "Wano's Greatest Hero."

Ryuma's sword, Shusui, is revered as Wano's national treasure, having been transformed into a permanent Black Blade. This rare feat has only been replicated by Mihawk, eluding even the great Oden.

The battle between Zoro and Zombie Ryuma in Thriller Bark (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Ryuma was often likened to Joy Boy, drawing a direct comparison between the two esteemed fighters. Without a doubt, the “Sword God” is counted among the most formidable characters in One Piece history.

Similar to Luffy being the embodiment of Joy Boy, Zoro is poised to inherit the legacy of Ryuma. With Ryuma's incredible strength and renown, he serves as a significant milestone for the swordsman with green hair to strive toward and potentially surpass.

After Ryuma's passing, Gecko Moria stole his body and reanimated it with Brook's shadow, creating the "Zombie Ryuma." Though not as strong as the original, Zombie Ryuma was still formidable enough to overpower Brook.

When the Straw Hats reached Thriller Bark, Zoro defeated the zombie, releasing Brook's shadow. Ryuma, recognizing Zoro's skill, bestowed his sword, Shusui, upon him before passing on and returning to Wano. Zoro then wielded the sword for over two years.

The similarity between Zoro and Ryuma is unmistakable (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

It's clear that two of Zoro's most powerful attacks are directly inspired by Ryuma's dragon-beheading slash in Monsters.

One Sword Style: Dragon Blaze - This Haki-imbued slash is capable of inflicting serious injury on Kaido in his massive dragon form. Big Mom expressed concern upon witnessing the attack.

King of Hell: Three Sword Serpent Dragon Damnation - This technique is fueled by both Advanced Conqueror’s Haki and Armament Haki simultaneously. It crushed King’s Lunarian body and magma-like flaming dragon.

The upcoming anime adaptation of Ryuma’s tale in Monsters will be called Monsters: Ippyaku Sanjo Hiryu Jigoku, which is the exact Japanese name for Zoro’s aforementioned Dragon Damnation attack.

Retracing Zoro's Shimotsuki roots

To further highlight the connection between Ryuma and Zoro, the mangaka of One Piece recently dedicated a color spread to the two legendary swordsmen, portraying them alongside their Shimotsuki clansmen.

Zoro's connection to Kuina, Kozaburo, and Koushiro (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Over half a century ago, Shimotsuki Kozaburo departed from Wano accompanied by some relatives. An esteemed swordsmith, Kozaburo also brought along one of his most exquisite creations, Wado Ichimonji. Upon reaching a specific location in the East Blue, the travelers came to the aid of the locals, rescuing them from mountain bandits.

The Wano natives made the decision to settle in the area, which was later renamed Shimotsuki Village. Shimotsuki Furiko, a relative of Kozaburo, became the wife of a swordsman named Roronoa Pinzoro. Their son, Arashi, married Tera and they had a child together. Unfortunately, both Arashi and Tera passed away at a young age.

Their son, Roronoa Zoro, began training in the village's dojo. Despite his young age, Zoro was already stronger than most adults, although he still couldn't match Kuina, the granddaughter of Kozaburo.

One day, Kozaburo, now an elderly gentleman, imparted wisdom to Zoro about the essence of swords. It wasn't until many years later, during the Onigashima Raid, that Zoro would fully comprehend the profound impact of Kozaburo's teachings.

Zoro and Kuina made a promise to each other that one of them would become the World's Strongest Swordsman. When Kuina tragically died, Zoro vowed to fulfill their pledge. He sought out Kuina's father, Shimotsuki Koushiro, and asked for her sword, Wado Ichimonji, which Koushiro agreed to give him.

Under Koushiro's guidance, Zoro learned that a sword has the ability to cut through everything and nothing, a concept similar to the Advanced Armament Haki explained by Hyogoro to Luffy. During his battle against Mr 1, Zoro recalled Koushiro's valuable teachings on how to cut through anything, even tough steel.

The Wado Ichimonji not only symbolizes Zoro's promise to Kuina, but also signifies his ties to the Shimotsuki Clan. Upon arriving in Wano, Zoro eventually acquired Enma, another creation of Kozaburo, further solidifying his connection with the clan.

From Ryuma to Zoro, through Ushimaru

Ushimaru, the direct descendant of Ryuma, was also Zoro's grand-uncle (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece).

Zoro's grandmother, Shimotsuki Furiko, had a younger brother named Ushimaru who was Zoro's great-uncle. While Furiko journeyed to the East Blue, Ushimaru stayed in Wano as the daimyo of Ringo.

Descended from the legendary Ryuma, Ushimaru was a formidable swordsman and Haki user who sought to thwart Kaido's control of Wano. Despite being defeated and imprisoned, Ushimaru's determination never faltered. When Yamato was also captured, Ushimaru and his allies escaped their confinement and bravely fought against Kaido, ultimately sacrificing themselves to ensure Yamato's survival and participation in the battle two decades later.

Meanwhile, Ushimaru’s loyal companion, a fox named Onimaru, stayed in Ringo, guarding the graves against thieves and gathering arms for the impending showdown.

Shimotsuki Yasuie as seen in the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Shimotsuki Yasuie, a fellow clansman of Ushimaru, was a supporter of Kozuki's cause. Known for his carefree and compassionate nature, Yasuie was dedicated to helping the people of Wano. He took in a young girl named Toko, who would later form a connection with Kozuki Hiyori, Oden's daughter and Momonosuke's sister.

For years, Yasuie played the role of a merry entertainer, all the while secretly preparing for the Kozuki clan's retaliation. When the Straw Hats arrived in Wano, Zoro formed a genuine bond with Yasuie, who had been patiently waiting for the opportunity to seek justice for the Kozuki family.

As the plot of the revolution was about to be uncovered by Orochi and the Beasts Pirates, Yasuie made the ultimate sacrifice to mislead them. His death deeply impacted Zoro, fueling even greater motivation in him to fight against Kaido.

Zoro's Supreme King ambition and Shimotsuki legacy

Zoro battling Kaido (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

During the raid on Onigashima, Luffy, Zoro, Law, Kid, and Killer joined forces to confront Kaido and Big Mom. Zoro executed his Flying Dragon Blaze attack, prompting Kaido to evade it, as Big Mom had recognized the threat posed by the move.

Zoro used Enma to deliver a powerful blow to Kaido with the Dragon Twister, causing a deep wound despite the Emperor's tough skin. Kaido and Big Mom joined forces to unleash the Hakai attack to take down the group of five rookies, but Zoro managed to shield Luffy and the others, albeit at the cost of sustaining serious injuries.

In a desperate attempt to protect his captain, Zoro summoned all his remaining strength and engaged Kaido in combat using his Nine Sword Style: Ashura, managing to slash a deep wound across the Emperor's chest.

Enma testing Zoro (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

The blow resulted in a lasting scar on Kaido, something that even the combined efforts of the Red Scabbards could not achieve. Despite the damage, Kaido withstood it, while Zoro crumpled to the ground.

After being injected with a medicine that promised instant healing but would result in double the pain later, Zoro quickly recovered and joined King in a fierce battle. Despite his Lunarian powers, Kaido's second-in-command withstood all of Zoro's attacks.

In the midst of the fight, Zoro's sword, Enma, began to react unpredictably. This triggered memories of his childhood interactions with Kozaburo, the creator of Enma. According to Kozaburo, a sword's wielder must understand its will and adapt to it in order to use it effectively.

Zoro has ascended to the title of "King of Hell" (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Upon recognizing that Enma had been assessing him by sapping his Haki, Zoro made the decision to release all of his stored energy so that the sword could finally be satisfied. Unleashing his Conqueror’s Haki, Zoro caused King’s nearby subordinates to lose consciousness.

Zoro demonstrated his incredible potential by effortlessly using the Color of Conqueror’s to enhance his weapons and attacks. Additionally, he merged Advanced Conqueror’s Haki and Armament Haki to develop the King of Hell Style, a cutting-edge Haki-based fighting technique.

Facing Zoro’s newfound strength, King, despite his unique Lunarian abilities, was unable to compete. With his mastery of the advanced Conqueror’s Haki, Zoro established himself as one of the most formidable fighters in existence.

Unleashing the true power of his Haki and mastering Enma, Zoro has taken a significant stride forward. Continuing the Shimotsuki legacy, Zoro aims to claim the title of the World’s Strongest Swordsman while supporting Luffy on his path to becoming the Pirate King. Stay tuned for updates on One Piece's manga, anime, and live-action as 2023 unfolds.

Editor's P/S

**My opinions, feelings, and attitudes:**

One Piece Episode 1085: Unraveling the Connection Between Zoro and the Shimotsuki Clan" is a thrilling conclusion to the Wano arc, providing fans with exhilarating battles and intriguing revelations. The episode delves into Zoro's lineage, establishing a profound connection between him and the legendary samurai, Shimotsuki Ryuma. This revelation adds depth to Zoro's character and sheds light on his exceptional swordsmanship.

The bond between Zoro and Luffy, the captain of the Straw Hat Pirates, is another captivating aspect of this episode. Their dynamic has evolved from a potentially hostile encounter to a solid partnership built on trust and mutual respect. Zoro's unwavering loyalty and willingness to risk his life for Luffy showcase the strength of their bond.

Moreover, the episode highlights Zoro's growth as a swordsman. His mastery of Haki, particularly the Advanced Conqueror's Haki, places him among the elite fighters in the One Piece universe. Zoro's determination to surpass Dracule Mihawk and become the World's Strongest Swordsman remains unwavering, and his connection to the Shimotsuki clan adds further motivation to his quest.

Overall, "One Piece Episode 1085: Unraveling the Connection Between Zoro and the Shimotsuki Clan" is a satisfying conclusion to the Wano arc, leaving fans eager for the next chapter in the Straw Hat Pirates' journey.

One Piece Manga - Anime One Piece is an incredible adventure-filled series that has captivated its fans for over two decades. It follows the journey of Monkey D. Luffy and his pirate crew, the Straw Hat Pirates, as they search for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece, in order to become the King of the Pirates. With its compelling storyline, diverse and lovable characters, epic battles, and themes of friendship and determination, One Piece has created a vast and immersive world that keeps fans eagerly anticipating each new chapter or episode. It is a timeless masterpiece that continues to redefine the boundaries of the shonen genre, making it a must-watch or read for any anime or manga enthusiast.