One Piece is the epitome of world-building and there are only a handful who can stand on equal footing. And while both Gol D. Roger and Whitebeard were the pinnacles of swordsmanship in their era, neither wielded a Black Blade. This has sparked debate amongst fans and many have also speculated the possibility of Zoro forging one during his journey to become the strongest.
In One Piece, Black Blades aren’t just weapons, they’re testaments to a swordsman’s mastery. Forged not by fire, but by years of infusing Haki, they become permanently black and possess immense power. Achieving this feat grants huge prestige and a significant boost, making Black Blades the ultimate goal for any aspiring swordsman like Zoro.
One Piece: Even Legends Like Gol D. Roger and Whitebeard Couldn’t Forge Black Blades
Gol D. Roger, the Pirate King, and Whitebeard, the Strongest Man, wielded fearsome blades – Ace and Murakumogiri, respectively, yet, neither could achieve a Black Blade. As to why these legendary figures fell short of this feat lies not in their strength, but in their wills. Black Blades, as revealed in Wano, are forged not just through combat, but through imbuing the sword with the user’s haki and ambitions.
It’s a testament to both physical prowess and unwavering intent. While Roger and Whitebeard possessed immense power, their goals might not have resonated deeply enough with their blades. Roger, the man who laughed in the face of death, reveled in adventure and freedom. His sword, Ace, likely reflected this spirit, prioritizing swiftness and adaptability over unwavering resolve.
While Whitebeard, the family man, wielded Murakumogiri as an extension of his protective will. He fought for his sons, not for personal glory. But perhaps his love, though immense, lacked the singular focus necessary to truly merge with the blade. He was a protector, not a conqueror, content to maintain rather than forge a new path. This theory is further supported by the known Black Blades – Yoru and Shusui.
Mihawk, who aspires to be the strongest swordsman, and Ryuma, who yearns to protect Wano’s borders, both possess singular, unwavering ambitions that resonate with their blades. This isn’t to say Roger and Whitebeard were weaker. Their achievements speak for themselves. But Black Blades represent a different kind of strength, a fusion of will and power that transcends mere combat prowess.
Will Roronoa Zoro Conquer Haki and Forge Black Blades?
The Straw Hats’ swordsman, Roronoa Zoro, has only one goal: to become the world’s strongest. A key milestone on this path lies in the enigmatic Black Blades, blades permanently imbued with the user’s Haki, granting immense power and prestige. To forge Black Blades; they require the swordsman’s own Haki prowess.
Legends like Dracule Mihawk and Ryuma achieved this feat, but the method remains mysterious. Some believe it entails imbuing the blade with the user’s will and spirit, forging an unbreakable bond. But others theorize it demands pushing Haki to its absolute limit, perhaps even unlocking advanced forms like Burning Haki.
Zoro possesses the potential. His Haki mastery grows steadily, evidenced by his recent feats against formidable opponents like Kaido and King, whom he won against. He trains relentlessly, pushing his limits further with each fight. His swords hold deep significance, each reflecting his journey and unwavering dedication.
However, it is speculated within the One Piece fandom that Wado Ichimonji, whom he inherited during his childhood, embodies his early struggles and unwavering spirit, can transform into a Black Blade. It is also speculated that it can only happen after Zoro becomes the strongest swordsman, meaning only after defeating Dracule Mihawk can Zoro wield a Black Blade.
One Piece is available to stream on Crunchyroll.
