The Yonko, the four most formidable pirates in the world of One Piece, possess an immense level of influence. In the treacherous New World, they reign as true Kings, backed by powerful allies and commanding control over numerous territories. However, it is not solely their strength that grants them the status of Yonko. Other crucial factors, such as the extent of their territories and the support they garner, also play a significant role in their rise to power.
Throughout the series, each Yonko has, at some point, provided protection to a particular country for various reasons. In cases where these countries are unable to afford the Heavenly Tribute, they instead seek shelter under the Yonko's wing. Additionally, some nations have simply fallen under the control of the Yonko, compelled to submit to their dominance. While every Yonko possesses territories of their own, the quantity of these territories varies among them.
7 Buggy
Buggy, the newest addition to the Four Emperors, earned his place after the demise of Big Mom and Kaido in Wano. With an astounding bounty of 3.189 billion berries, his rise to power cannot be underestimated. Despite not possessing immense strength himself, Buggy surrounds himself with formidable subordinates like Crocodile and Mihawk. Moreover, his leadership as the head of Buggy's Delivery has garnered him numerous allies from various nations across the globe.
What's more, Buggy has also issued bounties for the capture of Marines, further bolstering his support. The extent of his territorial control remains uncertain, but his numerous allies are a strong indication of the multiple countries under his protection.
6 Kaido
Kaido's reign as a Yonko was nothing short of extensive. Renowned as the Strongest Creature in the World, he exerted his dominance over the people of Wano, subjecting them to his brutal rule for over two decades. However, the tables turned in the Wano Country arc, as Kaido was ultimately defeated. This victory holds immense significance considering that Wano, a formidable nation that even the Navy feared, was under his control. It serves as a testament to the magnitude of the threat Kaido posed.
Furthermore, Kaido possessed multiple islands scattered throughout the New World. This fact was revealed to the fans shortly before the timeskip when X Drake engaged in combat with Scotch on a wintry island. Unfortunately, fans remain unaware of the exact number of territories under Kaido's control. With his downfall, it is unlikely that fans will ever receive a definitive answer to this question.
5 Luffy
Luffy has recently ascended to the status of a Yonko, solidifying his position among the esteemed group of Emperors. With a staggering bounty of 3 billion berries, his accomplishments are undeniably remarkable. However, it is important to note that strength alone is not sufficient to claim the title of a Four Emperor. In addition, a pirate must command a formidable crew and possess multiple territories to establish their dominance.
Luffy commands an impressive force known as the Straw Hat Grand Fleet, consisting of no less than 5,640 formidable pirates. Additionally, he extends his protection over notable territories like Wano and Fishman Island. Moreover, there are numerous other nations that Luffy has either rescued or visited, who will soon pledge their allegiance to him, including Amazon Lily, Arabasta, and potentially even Dressrosa, among others.
4 Blackbeard
During the two-year timeskip of One Piece, Blackbeard rose to the rank of Yonko, succeeding Whitebeard. As the story unfolds, he sets his sights on even greater accomplishments. With a bounty of 3.996 billion berries, Blackbeard currently holds the second-highest bounty among the Emperors. Furthermore, he has amassed a formidable alliance of powerful allies who have pledged their loyalty to him, as well as numerous nations that now fly under his flag.
After Whitebeard's demise, Blackbeard swiftly seized control of the territories previously held by the former. As a result, a significant portion of Whitebeard's dominions now fall under Blackbeard's command, including the esteemed Pirate Island. His remarkable achievements have solidified his position as a formidable presence within the One Piece universe, cementing Blackbeard's rightful status as one of the most powerful pirates in the world.
3 Shanks
Shanks, who has held the title of Yonko for the past 6 years, currently boasts the highest bounty among the Four Emperors, a staggering 4.0489 billion berries. His immense power was showcased to fans when he effortlessly defeated Eustass Kid with a single swing of his sword.
In addition to his formidable strength, Shanks also commands the allegiance of numerous powerful countries. One such instance was witnessed by fans when Bartolomeo burned down Shanks' flag in one of his territories. Moreover, Shanks has taken it upon himself to protect the revered War Land Elbaf, home to the world's strongest race. It comes as no surprise that Shanks has acquired several other territories, where he selflessly asks for nothing in return. Seeing all those he protects as his friends, Shanks is willing to go to any lengths for their sake, a trait that has been evident since the very beginning of the story. As the Final Saga of One Piece unfolds, Shanks is bound to play an increasingly significant role.
2 Big Mom
Big Mom, also known as Charlotte Linlin, is a former Yonko and a notorious pirate whose bounty surpasses 4.3 billion berries. Renowned for her exceptional intelligence network, Big Mom's information-gathering capabilities are unmatched among the Four Emperors. Additionally, she exercises control over numerous territories, further solidifying her power.
Until recently, Fishman Island was under Big Mom's dominion but has since fallen under the protection of the Straw Hat Pirates. Furthermore, Totto Land, Big Mom's homeland, is comprised of an impressive 34 islands, each governed by a distinct Minister. It is worth noting that Big Mom has successfully invaded and conquered neighboring nations, suggesting that they too may now fall under her jurisdiction. Undoubtedly, Big Mom's territorial influence is vast and surpasses that of any other Yonko depicted in the series.
1 Whitebeard
Whitebeard, a beloved character in One Piece, was not only the strongest man in his time but also surpassed his fellow Yonko in power. He stood on par with the late Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, a feat achieved by only a select few.
Throughout his extensive time at sea, Whitebeard played the role of protector, saving countless countries from absolute destruction. His death left a void in the New World, leading to a state of chaos, indicating that he had a considerable number of territories under his control. It was also hinted that Blackbeard swiftly seized these territories upon entering the New World. Undoubtedly, among the Emperors, Whitebeard held the responsibility of safeguarding the largest number of territories.