One Piece Elbaph Arc Shows Luffy Outmatched by Imu

The latest chapters of the One Piece manga reveal that the newly introduced character Imu, a centuries‑old ruler, possesses powers far beyond those of the series' protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy. In the Elbaph Arc, Luffy’s Gear 5 form is unable to challenge Imu, who also wields ancient weapons of the allied nations’ former rulers and is linked to the legendary figure Joyboy. The arc explains why Luffy cannot yet defeat the final antagonist.

Chapter 1190, scheduled for official release on 9 August 2026, continues the intense battle on Elbaf, featuring a showdown between Gaban and Imu. Early spoilers hint at a fierce confrontation that could determine the fate of the Straw Hat crew.