One Piece Anime Episode 1170 brought the confrontation between Luffy and Scopper Gaban to the screen, recreating one of the most notable clashes in Elbaf. When Emperor Luffy activated Gear 5, Gaban unexpectedly stopped the fight and handed over the key to free Loki.
So what was really behind this decision? Let's delve deeper into this unexpected encounter with Hobiverse.
Who is Scopper Gaban? The "Mountain Eater" Legend Confirmed by Oda
Before delving into the battle in Elbaf, we need to re-examine Scopper Gaban's position in the history of the Grand Line. Gaban is considered one of the key figures of the Roger Pirates, often placed alongside Rayleigh when referring to the Pirate King's two right-hand men.
In the SBS Question Corner, Volume 112, author Eiichiro Oda confirmed that Gaban served as the Roger Pirates' navigator. In terms of combat skills, he wielded twin axes, seamlessly combining them with Haki.
His nickname "Mountain Eater" is associated with Gaban's feat of single-handedly confronting a group of enemies surrounding Roger and clearing obstacles on the mountain with his two axes. The appearance of such a legendary figure at Aurust Castle immediately raised the stakes for the Straw Hat Pirates.
The Thrilling Battle Between Luffy Gear 5 vs. Gaban at Aurust Castle
The clash erupted when Luffy's crew entered Aurust Castle to search for the key to free Loki. Recognizing that Scopper Gaban was the key keeper, Luffy straightforwardly made his request. Instead of refusing, the former Roger Pirates navigator challenged Emperor Luffy to prove his strength if he wanted the reward.
What transpired showed that even though Gaban was old, he still possessed formidable combat abilities, capable of overpowering Luffy in his initial state. He easily deflected Luffy's high-speed punches, even using the Haki-infused key to knock his opponent flying.
The battle escalated when Gaban teased "Red-Haired" Shanks for being stingy, only lending Luffy his straw hat instead of actually giving it to him. This provocation angered Luffy, who launched a relentless assault.
Realizing his opponent was starting to get serious, Gaban immediately unleashed his swift twin-axe technique called "Yasotakeru". This attack almost hit its mark if not for the timely intervention of Roronoa Zoro. With a powerful block, Zoro not only protected his captain but also sliced off a solid corner of Aurust Castle's architecture.
Witnessing this coordinated move, Gaban faintly smiled, silently acknowledging the Straw Hat Pirates' bond.
Luffy Activates Gear 5: Why Did Gaban Suddenly Stop the Fight?
Realizing that conventional attacks were ineffective, Luffy decided to unleash his strongest awakened state. The exhilarating Drums of Liberation echoed, and the Gear 5 form with its flowing white hair appeared. However, Gaban's subsequent reaction was what stirred up the fan community.
Instead of continuing to defend, Gaban immediately retracted his twin axes, casually placed the key on the ground, and declared an end to the fight. This action sparked numerous discussions within the fan community.
From a narrative perspective, Gaban stopping when Gear 5 appeared led analysts to propose two main theories:
-
Theory 1 - The competency test is complete: Gaban merely wanted to test whether Luffy was capable enough to face the next dangers in Elbaf. When Luffy activated his strongest state, he recognized that the challenge had achieved its purpose.
-
Theory 2 - Recognition of Nika: Gaban smiled when he witnessed the "white form" of Gear 5. Many fans believe he wanted to personally confirm the existence of this embodiment of freedom. Nevertheless, the information that Gaban stopped fighting to confirm Luffy as the "heir to Joy Boy" remains merely a community theory and has not been officially confirmed in canon.
Additionally, Gaban's previous encounter with Shanks in Elbaf and his personal knowledge of this Emperor made the debate about the straw hat between him and Luffy even more special.
Power Comparison: Luffy Gear 5 vs Gaban (Prime)
Gaban in his prime was undoubtedly a crucial combatant of the Roger Pirates. However, the current manga does not provide enough data to accurately determine his Haki level or strength compared to legendary figures like Roger and Rayleigh. Therefore, any comparison of a deathmatch at their peak is largely an estimation.
At the current point in the Elbaf Arc, the advantage seems to lean towards the Straw Hat captain. While Gaban still possesses masterful combat techniques, the burden of age will undoubtedly reduce his stamina and ability to maintain high-intensity Haki in a long battle.
Meanwhile, Luffy in his Gear 5 state possesses incredible regenerative abilities and the power to transform his surroundings. Gaban's decision to proactively stop the fight demonstrates the wisdom of a seasoned veteran in the face of the overwhelming power of the new generation.
Collector's Corner for Weeaboos at Hobiverse
The aftermath of the battle in episode 1170 certainly makes One Piece fans want to preserve this historic moment. To elevate your display cabinet with unique art toys, we recommend two masterpieces from Mighty Jaxx currently available at Hobiverse:
XXRAY Figure: One Piece Luffy Gear 5 Wanted Series MIGHTY JAXX: The perfect blend of Gear 5 energy and artist Jason Freeny's semi-dissection style. The figure exposes Luffy's unique semi-anatomical structure in his Sun God state, clearly showing every body detail alongside his characteristic cloud hair.
XXRAY Figure: One Piece Zoro Wanted Series MIGHTY JAXX: Captures the resilient spirit of the swordsman. The Zoro figure is a suitable choice to recreate the moment the Straw Hat swordsman appeared to protect Luffy from Gaban's attack. The sharp paint details and distinctive "Wanted" style make this an unmissable piece.
Visit your nearest Hobiverse or check our website to get these quality pieces with attractive offers today!
The clash between Luffy Gear 5 vs. Gaban in Elbaf was not just a mere martial arts exchange but also a historic milestone marking a meaningful generational transition. Gaban's decision to stop the fight was a significant acknowledgment from the old generation to the future Pirate King.
Don't forget to follow Hobiverse today to stay updated on hot anime news and the latest art toy trends!
Image source: One Piece Wiki
See more
