One Piece: 6 Biggest What If Moments In The Series

One Piece is one of the longest and most popular anime series. A key reason for its popularity is its unique plot, which has kept readers hooked for decades. There have been instances in the story where fans have thought about what would happen if something minute was changed.

Given the fact that most events in One Piece have long-term effects, it is safe to say that altering even the slightest thing is dangerous. However, this hasn’t stopped fans from concocting theories about certain characters and how a different decision could affect the overall story.

6. Sabo In Marineford

The Three Brothers Reunited

Fans didn’t know that Sabo was alive until the Dressrosa arc, where he unexpectedly made an appearance. In the aftermath of his ship’s destruction, Sabo ended up losing his memory. He remained with the Revolutionary Army until he learned about Ace’s death in the papers. The time that he spent with the Revolutionaries helped Sabo grow stronger and become a skilled fighter.

After Sabo’s survival came to light, fans wondered what would happen if he was also in Marineford. This hypothetical scenario was covered in a small one-shot by Oda, in which Sabo could be seen saving both Ace and Luffy. If Ace had survived, it would be interesting to see if he would have captained the Whitebeard Pirates and helped them retain their status as one of the strongest crews in One Piece.

5. Sanji Takes All Of Luffy’s Pain

Giving Sanji Another Iconic Moment

In the Thriller Bark arc, the Straw Hat Pirates had to face Gecko Moria and his officers. Once the heroes had dealt with the enemies, it seemed that they would get their well-deserved rest, but fate had other plans. Following Moria’s defeat, Kuma appeared with the intention of killing Luffy. However, Zoro offered his life instead, leading to the iconic “Nothing Happened.”

It is worth remembering that Sanji was also conscious and had offered to take his captain’s pain as well, only to be knocked out by Zoro. What would have happened if Sanji had touched the bubble? While Sanji is not as powerful as Zoro, there is very little separating the two. So, to think that Sanji would have died would be foolish.

4. Whitebeard’s Wasn’t Sick

He Would Have Sunk Marineford

Whitebeard and his crew arrived at Marineford with the sole purpose of rescuing Ace. While they were a renowned pirate crew, they would not have managed to get the better of the Marines and the Shichibukai. This is why they needed help from Luffy and the other Impel Down escapees.

One of the major reasons why Whitbeard struggled in the war was because he was sick. If he was suffering from illness, Whitebeard could have potentially razed Marineford to the ground. This would have meant that Ace would have survived, and Blackbeard would likely have died. The effects of both of these events would have changed One Piece forever.

3. Big Mom Was Sent To Cipher Pol Or Marines

The Marines Would Be Unstoppable

Charlotte Linlin was abandoned by her parents when she was just a child. They were scared of her and didn’t want to put their lives at risk. So, they deceived her and left her to die. However, Linlin was taken in by Mother Carmel, who recognized her talent. She knew that Linlin had the potential to reach new heights.

Mother Carmel informed the Cipher Pol about her discovery, and she believed that Linlin had the potential to become a Fleet Admiral, but everything changed due to the latter’s rampage. If things had actually worked out, Linlin would likely have become a Fleet Admiral or a CP-0 agent. This would have handed either organization a major boost.

2. Kaido Showed Up At Marineford

Kaido was a well-known warmonger. In his opinion, people could only be equal in war, which is why he was so fond of it. When Whitebeard attacked the Marine headquarters, Kaido was on his way to participate as well. But he was stopped by Shanks before he could cause any chaos.

One can’t help but think what would have transpired if Kaido had reached Marineford. There is no doubt that his presence would have completely changed the war. Kaido would not have allied with Whitebeard, but he would have fought on his own against everyone else. Kaido would likely have gone after Whitebeard first and destroyed the Marines.

1. Luffy Listened To His Grandfather

Thousands Of People Would Have Died

Luffy has become one of the greatest pirates in the world. He rose to prominence in a few years with the help of his blood and sweat. Luffy’s crew also helped him become the person that he is. Fans have seen Garp talk to Luffy multiple times about becoming a Marine, but the latter was fixated on his goal.

However, if Luffy did listen to Garp, things would be a lot different in One Piece. Zoro would have died at the hands of Helmeppo, Nami would still be working for Arlong, Brook would have been stuck without his shadow, Robin would have been on the run, and Chopper would likely have died. Needless to say, Luffy’s decision to become a Marine would have the most far-reaching consequences.