Ranking the Powerhouses: The Strongest One Piece Characters in Every Arc

Since its inception in 1997, One Piece has become a beloved fictional story, captivating audiences with its grand tale of adventure and friendship. It has expertly crafted a complex world, continuously in a state of turmoil. As the protagonists embark on their journey, each event seamlessly weaves into the overarching narrative.

After years of captivating serialization, One Piece has entered its final saga, known as the ongoing Egghead Arc. Generally, arcs commence when the Straw Hat Pirates set foot on a specific island and conclude as they depart, while sagas unite multiple arcs with a shared narrative objective.

This thread will comprehensively examine the One Piece story, highlighting the top five most formidable fighters in each arc. These individuals will be ranked based on their overall combat abilities during that specific period, excluding characters from flashbacks. Please be aware that this article contains significant spoilers from the One Piece manga up to chapter 1099.

The five most powerful characters in every One Piece arc, as of chapter 1099

East Blue

Monkey D. Dragon

Dracule Mihawk

Smoker

Monkey D. Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

The five strongest One Piece characters in East Blue Saga (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

The East Blue Saga initiates Monkey D. Luffy's pirate escapade as he assembles his crew. Beginning in Foosha, Luffy recruits his first four crewmates, with Roronoa Zoro occupying the position of his right-hand man.

Throughout their journey, the Straw Hats traverse numerous islands, encountering formidable adversaries on each one. Their voyage commences in Shell Town and progresses through Orange Town, Syrup Village, the Baratie, Arlong Park, culminating in Rogue Town, the final destination in East Blue before embarking on the Grand Line.

Arabasta

Among the characters featured in the saga, "Hawk Eyes" Mihawk, known as the World's Strongest Swordsman, and Dragon, the leader of the Revolutionary Army, stood out from the rest. Leaving them aside, it can be said that Luffy and Zoro were significantly stronger than the other fighters, except for Smoker.

Portgas D. Ace

Crocodile

Smoker

Monkey D. Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

The five strongest One Piece characters in Arabasta Saga (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Upon reaching the Grand Line, the Straw Hat Pirates arrived at Whiskey Peak, where they encountered the Baroque Works organization for the first time. Following their adventures on Little Garden and Drum Island, the main characters eventually made their way to Arabasta. In Arabasta, they dedicated themselves to assisting Nefertari Vivi in defending the country from Crocodile's sinister schemes.

Ace, with his brief yet remarkable appearance, emerged as the most powerful character in this particular arc. Coming after him were two other Logia users, Crocodile and Smoker. Despite ultimately defeating the Warlord, Luffy did not possess greater overall strength than him. In fact, Crocodile had defeated Luffy twice previously and could have easily ended his life.

In the battle power rankings provided by the databook, Luffy and Zoro were given equal scores, placing them above the other Straw Hat members. This was highlighted in Whiskey Peak when they fought each other and the result was a draw, indicating a strong similarity, if not an equal level, of combat strength between them.

Mr 1, another formidable opponent introduced in the arc, posed a significant threat. Zoro was compelled to enhance his abilities by acquiring the skill to slice through steel, which later was unveiled to be a manifestation of Haki in the story.

Jaya and Skypiea

Marshall D. Teach “Blackbeard”

Enel

Monkey D. Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

Wyper

Toei Animation's One Piece image presents the top five powerful characters in Skypiea Saga.

The Straw Hats arrived in Skypiea, driven by tales of a legendary city of gold in the sky. They soon found themselves embroiled in a tense struggle between different factions. In the midst of their adventures in Jaya, the narrative introduced the fearsome Marshall D. Teach.

Enel posed a significant danger in Skypiea by utilizing the Logia-class Rumble-Rumble Fruit and combining it with his Observation Haki. Despite ultimately being defeated by Luffy, Enel's downfall can be attributed to Luffy's unique ability to withstand lightning due to his rubber-like body.

Setting aside Luffy's immunity, it is worth noting that both his second-in-command Zoro and the Shandia warrior Wyper displayed similar levels of strength. This is evident from Wyper's two separate one-on-one battles against Luffy and Zoro, where he held his own and clashed evenly with them.

Other notable combatants in Skypiea included Enel’s most formidable followers: Ohm, whose ordeal was deemed impossibly difficult with a flawless 0% survival rate, and Shura, whose ordeal boasted a slightly higher but still challenging 3% survival rate, indicating that he stood as a slightly lesser adversary compared to Ohm. However, both Ohm and Shura ultimately succumbed to defeat at the hands of Zoro and Wyper, respectively.

Water Seven and Enies Lobby

Monkey D. Garp

Kuzan "Aokiji"

Monkey D. Luffy

Rob Lucci

Roronoa Zoro

The five strongest One Piece characters in Enies Lobby Saga (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Upon reaching Water Seven, the Straw Hat Pirates were faced with the surprising departure of Nico Robin from their crew. Determined to free Robin from the clutches of the World Government, they set their course towards Enies Lobby, the battleground where they engaged in a fierce battle against the formidable CP9 group.

After an intense confrontation, the crew successfully rescued Robin and, to their delight, welcomed a new member named Franky into their fold. Shortly after, they were paid an unexpected visit by a group of Marines, which included familiar faces such as Koby, Helmeppo, and the renowned Monkey D. Garp. Additionally, Admiral Kuzan, known as "Aokiji," also made his notable appearance during this encounter.

Luffy faced a great challenge in his battle against CP9 agent Rob Lucci, even with the use of his Gears. Despite being gravely injured by Lucci's Rokuogan, Luffy managed to defeat him by harnessing every ounce of strength in his body to unleash a powerful Jet Gatling attack.

Zoro, employing his Nine Sword Style: Ashura, completely dominated CP9's Kaku, demonstrating that he was on an entirely different level than his opponent. In the meantime, Sanji showcased his Diable Jambe, a technique that allowed him to overpower Jabra from CP9.

Thriller Bark

Bartholomew Kuma

Gecko Moria

Zombie Oars

Monkey D. Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

In the Thriller Bark Arc of One Piece, the Straw Hats encountered a variety of eerie and peculiar creatures in a haunted location. After their unexpected encounter with Brook, a living skeleton capable of speech, the crew found themselves in a predicament. Gecko Moria had stolen their shadows, compelling them to reclaim them before the break of dawn on the following day.

After successfully overcoming Moria and his army of zombies, a new threat emerged in the form of Warlord Bartholomew Kuma. With the sole intention of capturing Luffy, Zoro bravely stood his ground, willing to sacrifice his own life to ensure Luffy's safety. Witnessing Zoro's unwavering determination and complete disregard for his own well-being, Kuma was taken aback and ultimately chose to retreat. It is worth noting that due to the incredible abilities bestowed upon him by the Paw-Paw Fruit, Kuma possessed an immense power that surpassed everyone else on the island. Even Moria and his most formidable creation, the terrifying Oars, paled in comparison to Kuma.

Despite sustaining injuries, Zoro displayed remarkable resilience by maintaining both consciousness and an upright position, despite enduring the full extent of the pain, damage, and exhaustion that Luffy had accumulated throughout the arc. This extraordinary feat highlighted Zoro as the sole member of the Straw Hat crew capable of stepping into Luffy's shoes.

Sabaody Archipelago

Borsalino "Kizaru"

Silvers Rayleigh

Bartholomew Kuma

Sentomaru

Monkey D. Luffy

The five strongest One Piece characters in Sabaody Arc (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

In Sabaody, the Straw Hats discovered that Luffy and Zoro had become famous as two of the Eleven Supernovas from the Worst Generation. In their attempt to save their friend Camie, they stumbled upon a repulsive slave auction where the Celestial Dragons were purchasing slaves. Filled with disgust, Luffy couldn't control his anger and ended up punching one of the nobles. This action attracted the attention of Admiral Borsalino "Kizaru". After defeating most of the Supernovas, Kizaru turned his attention to the Straw Hats, but he was halted by the intervention of "Dark King" Silvers Rayleigh, the former right-hand man of Gol D. Roger.

Retired and approaching his eighties, Rayleigh effectively held off Kizaru, preventing the Admiral from advancing. The Straw Hats suffered a harsh defeat as they failed to halt Bartholomew Kuma's use of his Devil Fruit abilities to scatter them across different locations.

While Luffy, with his Gears, and Zoro, with his Nine Sword Style, were likely the most formidable fighters among the Supernovas, Law and Kid also showed promise. However, none of them stood a chance against Sentomaru, who effortlessly overwhelmed Luffy.

Amazon Lily

Boa Hancock

Momonga

Monkey D. Luffy

Boa Sandersonia

Boa Marigold

In Amazon Lily, the land where strength reigns supreme in One Piece, a powerful group of characters stands tall. (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

After being sent hurtling through the air by the force of Bartholomew Kuma, Luffy found himself on the shores of Amazon Lily, a mysterious island that exclusively harbors women. With the sole purpose of reuniting with his companions, Luffy initially planned to escape this all-female territory. However, his intentions swiftly shifted upon receiving shocking news regarding his beloved brother, Ace.

Attempting to rescue Ace, who was imprisoned in Impel Down and facing imminent execution, Luffy embarked on a frantic race against time, aided surprisingly by Boa Hancock, the reigning Pirate Empress of Amazon Lily.

Back then, Luffy would have been completely outmatched by Vice Admiral Momonga. However, the determined young pirate showcased his overwhelming prowess by triumphing over Hancock's sisters, Sandersonia and Marigold.

Despite their proficiency in using Observation and Armament Haki, Luffy managed to overpower both opponents in a 1v2 battle. Once he unleashed his Gears, they were completely unable to match his speed and strength.

Impel Down

Marshall D. Teach “Blackbeard”

Shiryu

Magellan

Emporio Ivankov

Jinbe

The five strongest One Piece characters in Impel Down (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

Luffy sought Hancock's assistance in reaching Impel Down with the determination to save Ace from being taken to Marineford by the Marines. However, the mission proved to be much more difficult than anticipated.

Due to his abilities from the Venom-Venom Fruit, Luffy found that he was unable to reach the prison's Chief Warden, Magellan. Even Jinbe and Crocodile were not willing to face the challenge of going against Magellan, who effortlessly defeated Emporio Ivankov, a powerful member of the Revolutionary Army.

Upon entering Impel Down, Teach was immediately defeated by Magellan. However, due to his consistent tendency to underestimate his opponents, it is uncertain whether Teach's overall strength surpassed that of Magellan and Shiryu.

Shiryu, the Head Jailer of Impel Down, was known to be just as powerful as Magellan, if not more dangerous. As the story progresses, Shiryu unexpectedly aligns himself with Teach, resulting in Magellan's downfall and ultimately leading to a massive prison breakout.

Shanks

Sakazuki "Akainu"

Edward Newgate "Whitebeard"

Monkey D. Garp

The Marineford arc showcased the incredible strength of various characters in One Piece (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece).

Accompanied by prominent figures like Ivankov, Jinbe, Crocodile, and Mr 1, Luffy made his way to Marineford amidst the blazing Paramount War. Here, the crewmates of Ace, under the leadership of the legendary Edward Newgate "Whitebeard," launched a formidable assault on the Marine Headquarters in a desperate bid to rescue Ace. This led to intense clashes with the finest officers of the Navy.

Despite the minimal participation and potential betrayal of certain Warlords, as well as the limited involvement of Garp and Sengoku, the Navy was able to overpower the opposing forces. Tragically, both Whitebeard and Ace lost their lives in the midst of the conflict.

Within this colossal battle between mighty forces, Luffy understandably found it challenging to withstand the opposition. The extensive presence of exceptional fighters and influential individuals in the Marineford war renders it an exceptionally unique event, further emphasizing the significance of this arc.

Ace’s death profoundly marked Luffy, while Whitebeard’s passing caused upheaval in the world, especially as in his final moments he confirmed the existence of the One Piece.

Fish-Man Island

Monkey D. Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

Jinbe

Sanji

Hody Jones

The five strongest One Piece characters in Fishman Island Arc (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

After two years, the Straw Hat Pirates assembled at Sabaody Archipelago, prepared to venture into the New World. While passing through Fish-Man Island, they became entangled in Hody Jones' scheme to seize control of the Ryugu Kingdom.

As a direct outcome of their rigorous training under the guidance of Silvers Rayleigh and Dracule Mihawk, Luffy and Zoro attained unparalleled strength. The intensive two-year regimen undeniably transformed them.

Punk Hazard

In the arc, there was another formidable warrior, the renowned Warlord Jinbe, known for his unparalleled mastery of Fish-Man Karate. Although Sanji possessed considerable strength, it was not given as much focus compared to the immense power demonstrated by Luffy and Zoro.

Kuzan "Aokiji"

Monkey D. Luffy

Donquixote Doflamingo

Roronoa Zoro

Trafalgar Law

The five strongest One Piece characters in Punk Hazard Arc (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

During the time skip, Punk Hazard became the battleground for Akainu and Aokiji’s intense battle for the position of Fleet Admiral. When the Straw Hats arrived on the desolate island, they encountered Smoker, now a Vice Admiral, and Trafalgar Law.

As the nefarious activities of the eccentric scientist Caesar Clown were uncovered, the crew became entangled in Law’s bitter conflict with the notorious Donquixote Doflamingo. And to everyone's surprise, Kuzan, also known as Aokiji, made an unexpected appearance at the end of the arc.

The former Admiral stood out as the most powerful individual in Punk Hazard during that time. Luffy ranked as the strongest beneath him, with Doflamingo and Zoro following closely behind. Although Vergo couldn't match Trafalgar Law's strength, he managed to defeat Smoker and overpower Sanji. It is likely that Smoker exhibited greater fighting skills compared to Sanji, as he was able to push Vergo to utilize his Haki, while Sanji didn't require such effort. Both Caesar Clown and Monet were users of Logia-class Devil Fruits, but they lacked the overall combat prowess to measure up.

Dressrosa

Sabo

Monkey D. Luffy

Donquixote Doflamingo

Roronoa Zoro

The Dressrosa Arc in One Piece saw the emergence of the five most formidable characters. In their mission to topple Doflamingo, the Straw Hats were joined by Law, Kinemon, and the unwilling Caesar Clown. However, the Warlord proved to be too strong for Law, leaving him battered. In a stunning turn of events, Luffy came to the rescue and unleashed his Gear 4 form, overpowering his adversary.

Issho, also known as "Fujitora," held the rank of Marine Admiral, making him superior to all other characters in Dressrosa. Following him was Sabo, who had acquired the Flame-Flame Fruit powers and held the position of second-in-command within the Revolutionary Army prior to this.

Luffy's strength reached incredible heights while utilizing Gear 4. Doflamingo posed a significant threat with his formidable and adaptable Devil Fruit abilities, while Zoro's devastating sword skills and proficiency in Armament Haki made him equally dangerous.

Zou

Despite being soundly defeated by Doflamingo, Trafalgar Law's fighting abilities pale in comparison to Zoro and Luffy. Nonetheless, his exceptional proficiency with the Ope-Ope Fruit elevates him above the majority of fighters, surpassing even Burgess and the formidable Pica in strength.

Monkey D. Luffy

Roronoa Zoro

Trafalgar Law

Zunisha

Jack

The five strongest One Piece characters in Zou Arc (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

The Straw Hats relocated to Zou, discovering that it was a nation suspended on the back of Zunisha, an ancient colossal elephant. Over a millennium, Zunisha had formed a mutually beneficial bond with the indigenous Minks Tribe.

Tragedy struck when Jack of the Beasts Pirates invaded the island, inflicting destruction and suffering upon the Minks. Despite enduring horrendous atrocities, the Minks unwaveringly stood their ground, refusing to betray their fellow Mink, Raizo.

Upon discovering Sanji's participation in a convoluted scheme, Luffy, Nami, Chopper, Brook, and a few Minks embarked on a mission to Whole Cake Island in order to rescue him. In the meantime, Zoro, Law, Franky, Robin, and Usopp, accompanied by Kinemon, set off towards Wano.

Whole Cake Island

Charlotte Linlin "Big Mom"

Charlotte Katakuri

Monkey D. Luffy

Jinbe

Charlotte Cracker

The five strongest One Piece characters in Whole Cake Island (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

With the help of Pekoms, Pedro, and Carrot, Luffy and his crew members venture onto Whole Cake Island. Their mission: to rescue Sanji from his coerced wedding to Charlotte Pudding. However, their plans become intertwined with Capone Bege's plot to assassinate Big Mom.

Amidst the wedding festivities, both sides' ulterior motives are unveiled, as it is revealed that Big Mom is also planning to eliminate Sanji and his family. In the ensuing commotion, Luffy finds himself in a confrontation with Charlotte Katakuri, Big Mom's most powerful son and loyal subordinate.

Utilizing his advanced Observation Haki and mastery of the Mochi-Mochi Fruit, Katakuri easily surpassed Luffy in their battle. However, Luffy surpassed his own capabilities and awakened his own version of the "Future Sight" ability. The intense confrontation reached a stalemate as both Luffy and Katakuri unleashed their most devastating attacks. Aside from Katakuri, notable formidable opponents in this arc included Cracker, Smoothie, Jinbe, Sanji, and Perospero, although none could compare to the power of Big Mom.

Wano

Shanks

Monkey D. Luffy

Kaido

Charlotte Linlin "Big Mom"

Aramaki "Ryokugyu"

In the Wano Arc of One Piece, there are five incredibly powerful characters. Their goal is to liberate the country from the oppressive rule of Kaido, who conquered it two decades ago, taking it away from the rightful ruler, Kozuki Oden. Thus, the Ninja-Pirate-Mink-Samurai Alliance initiated their plan and engaged in a fierce battle against the Beasts Pirates, led by Kaido and allied with Big Mom.

Luffy rose to become one of the Four Emperors and brought freedom back to Wano after the conflict ended. The arc set in Wano, spanning 149 chapters (192 episodes in the anime adaptation), is the longest in the series, highlighting its significant role.

Kaido, surpassing Big Mom and Admiral Ryokugyu in power, initially stood as the mightiest antagonist, but even he was eventually surpassed by Luffy. Zoro and Yamato, possessing incredible Haki, emerged as the strongest fighters below the top tiers, with Kid, Law, Marco, and King following suit.

The most powerful character to make his appearance in Wano was, however, someone nobody would ever expect to see there: "Red Hair" Shanks.

Egghead

Saint Jaygarcia Saturn

Monkey D. Luffy

Borsalino "Kizaru"

Roronoa Zoro

Rob Lucci

The five strongest One Piece characters in Egghead (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)

After departing from Wano, the Straw Hat Pirates arrived on Egghead, where they became entangled in a convoluted plot to assassinate Dr. Vegapunk. Due to the World Government's dispatching of a formidable fleet to lay siege to the island, the crew took up arms to secure an avenue of escape.

Consequently, the situation intensified into an event of such magnitude that its repercussions were predicted to reverberate throughout the entire One Piece universe. On the World Government's side, the two most formidable combatants present on Egghead were Admiral Kizaru and the highly skilled agent Rob Lucci of CP0.

To ensure the safety of the island inhabitants, Luffy and Zoro quickly intervened against Kizaru and Lucci. Amidst their intense battle, the arrival of Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, a member of the Five Elders, further escalated the situation as he transformed into a terrifying creature.

Feeling the intensity of Saturn's presence, Kizaru, Luffy, Zoro, and Lucci momentarily halted their confrontations, recognizing him as a significant danger to Egghead Island. Before long, Saturn demonstrated his immense strength by effortlessly overpowering Sanji and Jewelry Bonney.

Keep up with One Piece manga, anime, and live-action as 2023 progresses.

Editor's P/S

In the captivating world of One Piece, the East Blue Saga sets the stage for an extraordinary adventure. As Monkey D. Luffy embarks on his journey to become the Pirate King, he assembles a remarkable crew, starting with his right-hand man, Roronoa Zoro. Together, they navigate treacherous waters, encountering formidable adversaries in their path. Among the strongest characters in this saga are the enigmatic "Hawk Eyes" Mihawk, renowned as the World's Strongest Swordsman, and the enigmatic Monkey D. Dragon, leader of the Revolutionary Army.

Although Mihawk and Dragon possess immense power, excluding them from the rankings, it becomes apparent that Luffy and Zoro surpass the other fighters in terms of strength, with the exception of Smoker. The Straw Hat Pirates' journey through the East Blue Saga is marked by intense battles and the formation of unbreakable bonds, setting the tone for the epic adventures that lie ahead.

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.