Unveiling the Epic Journey of Momonosuke: Wano's Rising Shogun

The special episode of One Piece titled "A Very Special Feature! Momonosuke's Road to Becoming a Great Shogun" was released on December 24, 2023. Before the Straw Hats' journey to Egghead Island, the creators of the anime decided to take one last look at Wano. The episode highlights Momonosuke's efforts to become a strong leader of Wano after the defeat of Kaido and Orochi.

In the previous episode, viewers witnessed the potential threat to the Kuja tribe's island, Sabo's discovery during the Reverie, and Luffy sharing his ambitious dreams with his crew.

One Piece special episode recounts how Wano got its new shogun

Momonosuke makes the announcement

Momonosuke depicted in the One Piece special episode (Image via Toei Animation)

During the One Piece special episode, Yamato, Momonosuke, and Kinemon gathered to reminisce about the events following Luffy's defeat of Kaido. The flashback commenced with Momonosuke journeying to the Flower Capital to address the people of Wano. He announced to the citizens that they were now liberated to live according to their own desires, thanks to the triumph of the Ninja-Pirate-Mink-Samurai Alliance.

Momonosuke was then seen trembling, unsure of what else to say to the crowd. Kinemon advised him to show off a bit. Taking the advice, Momonosuke went on to reveal that his name meant 'peerless' and promised that if he were to rule Wano, he would transform it into Xanadu. However, he would require the support of his people to achieve this.

Luffy meets adult Momonosuke

Momonosuke in his adult form made an appearance in the One Piece special episode, as depicted by Toei Animation. After waking up, Luffy and Zoro were visibly surprised by Momonosuke's transformation. Zoro even expressed his eagerness to test Momonosuke's strength with a punch, while Yamato remarked on how his physique resembled that of Oden's.

Yamato was certain that Momonosuke would one day become the most formidable samurai in the country. As a great admirer of Oden, Yamato also asked if Momonosuke would be willing to adopt his father's hairstyle.

Ryokugyu's infiltration

In the One Piece special episode, Momonosuke launches an attack on Ryokugyu (Image via Toei Animation)

Following this, the focus shifted to Ryokugyu in the One Piece special episode, where he had made his way into Wano with the intention of capturing Luffy. Utilizing his Woods-Woods Devil Fruit, he managed to overpower Wano's samurai until Yamato intervened and dealt a powerful blow to him. Momonosuke also made an appearance, only to find himself ensnared by Ryokugyu's branches.

Momonosuke sees off the Straw Hats

Despite the circumstances, Momonosuke made the decision not to seek Luffy's assistance and encouraged Yamato not to intervene. He was determined to safeguard Wano using his own abilities rather than relying on those who may not always be there. Momonosuke unleashed Bolo Breath, but Ryokugyu was able to regenerate. In the end, it was Shanks who put a stop to Ryokugyu.

Luffy as seen in the One Piece special episode (Image via Toei Animation)

In the special One Piece episode, viewers witnessed a distressed Momonosuke, saddened by the fact that he didn't have the chance to see Luffy one more time. With Kinemon and Yamato by his side, he rushed to the port, where the Straw Hats awaited him. Upon reaching them, Momonosuke was overwhelmed with emotion, reluctant to see them leave because of his deep-seated fear.

Anticipating this, the Straw Hats had already prepared a large flag bearing their Jolly Roger symbol. They intended for Momonosuke to display it, both as a source of courage for himself and a deterrent for any of Wano's enemies.

One Piece episode 1088 recap

Kuma, Dragon, and Koala in their depiction from the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation)

The last episode began with a scene at Amazon Lily, where it was revealed that Rayleigh had successfully rescued Hancock. He had asserted his dominance using Haki before instructing Hancock to release the Navy soldiers and Blackbeard's crew. He then proceeded to send them all away from the island.

In Kamabakka Queendom, Koala was in distress over the alleged murder of King Cobra by Sabo, and Dragon promised not to forgive Sabo if the news was true. Sabo then reached out and apologized to Koala for the chaos he had caused, but the Marines were tracking his call.

Meanwhile, Luffy and his crew were shocked by the news of Sabo's crime. Luffy, also upset about Vivi's disappearance, wanted to immediately head to Alabasta and Marie Geois, but Zoro advised against entering enemy territory. Luffy then shared his dream with his crew, suggesting that it might be achievable once he became the King of the Pirates.

Editor's P/S

As an enthusiastic fan of One Piece, I was thrilled to watch the special episode dedicated to Momonosuke's journey towards becoming a great Shogun. The episode provided a heartwarming and action-packed look into Momonosuke's growth and determination to lead Wano after the defeat of Kaido and Orochi. It was particularly touching to see Momonosuke's interactions with Yamato and Kinemon, as they reminisced about the past and offered their support for his future endeavors.

The highlight of the episode for me was Momonosuke's confrontation with Ryokugyu. Despite being outmatched, Momonosuke showed incredible courage and resolve in defending Wano on his own. His decision not to rely on Luffy's assistance and his determination to protect his homeland were truly inspiring. The scene where he unleashed Bolo Breath, even though it was ultimately ineffective against Ryokugyu, showcased his growth and potential as a powerful samurai.