The Best Fights In One Piece

While worldbuilding and storytelling take center stage in One Piece, the anime’s unique cast of characters with bizarre powers leads to some incredibly creative fights. With over 1000 episodes under its belt, One Piece has showcased clashes that fans never imagined possible. Though not the main appeal of the long-running shonen, the fights embody the spirit of the series; over-the-top, hilarious, and bursting with heart.

Of the hundreds of matchups, these eight fights stand out for their animation, emotional impact, stakes, and entertainment value. Whether it’s Luffy battling previous villains or unlikely allies teaming up, these crazy and memorable showdowns showcase the appeal of One Piece’s signature brand of action.

8

Portgas D. Ace vs. Blackbeard

Arc: Post-Enies Lobby

Few fights in One Piece come close to the raw emotion and importance seen in the fiery clash between Ace and Blackbeard on Banaro Island. Ace was hellbent on revenge against the man who killed his friend Thatch, while Blackbeard saw Ace as a perfect gift to ingratiate himself with the Navy. The battle itself was a spectacular display of contrasting devil fruit abilities, with Ace’s flaming attacks met by Blackbeard’s all-consuming darkness.

In the end, though, it was Blackbeard’s shrewdness that won the day. By defeating and capturing the infamous Fire Fist Ace, Blackbeard’s reputation skyrocketed overnight. More importantly, his actions set the stage for the earth-shattering Marineford War and Luffy’s rise to rally an army to rescue his beloved brother from execution.

7

Straw Hat Pirates Vs Oars

Arc: Thriller Bark

The Thriller Bark arc featured one of One Piece’s most memorable battles, the Straw Hat Pirates against the towering undead giant, Oars. Initially proving too strong for the crew to handle alone, they were forced to combine their strengths and unique abilities in clever ways to exploit the lumbering zombie’s weaknesses.

Capitalizing on openings created by precision teamwork, the climax saw Luffy utilize his transformed ‘Nightmare’ state to match his gargantuan foe blow for blow. Though Oars possessed titanic power, the bonds of unity and trust between the Straw Hats ultimately overcame his solitary might in an epic confrontation embodying the series’ themes of friendship and teamwork. This thrilling underdog fight remains a fan favorite for showcasing the formidable force the crew becomes when fighting as one.

6

Monkey D. Garp vs. Kuzan

Arc: Egg Head

The confrontation between legendary Marine Monkey D. Garp and his former pupil-turned-pirate Kuzan has gripped One Piece fans. Garp infiltrates the Blackbeard crew’s island to rescue his protégé Koby. He encounters Kuzan, now allied with Blackbeard. In their exchange, both veterans unleash devastating attacks that leave each other severely injured.

Their history complicates the battle; though on opposing sides, they still respect one another. The fight’s outcome remains uncertain. But with the emotional stakes high for both combatants, their struggle represents not just a clash of Haki and Devil Fruits but also a tragic conflict between mentor and student. This battle between titans captivates with both epic action and deeper meaning.

5

Monkey D. Luffy vs. Charlotte Katakuri

Arc: Whole Cake Island

The battle between Straw Hat Pirates captain Luffy and Big Mom commander Katakuri pits Luffy’s relentless determination against Katakuri’s formidable fighting skills and future sight. Initially overwhelmed, Luffy adapts to Katakuri’s abilities over time. However, interference by Katakuri’s sister Flampe allows Katakuri to land a major blow.

In response, Katakuri’s sense of honor compels him to stab himself to even the odds. The fight culminates with Luffy unlocking Gear Fourth Snakeman, enhancing his speed and power to decisively defeat Katakuri despite grievous injuries. This hard-fought victory marks Luffy overcoming seemingly impossible odds through sheer willpower and growth as a fighter.

4

Roronoa Zoro vs. King

Arc: Wano

The battle between Zoro and King in the Wano arc marked a pivotal moment for the swordsman. Initially outmatched, Zoro struggled to overcome King’s impenetrable fiery defense. However, through perseverance and mastery of his sword Enma, Zoro began anticipating King’s moves.

The tide turned when Zoro sliced through King’s flames, a feat signaling Zoro’s growth. In a grueling back-and-forth, Zoro unleashed his new technique, Dragon Damnation, defeating King. This hard victory solidified Zoro’s status as one of the strongest fighters in One Piece.

3

Monkey D. Luffy vs. Rob Lucci

Arc: Ennies Lobby

The fight between Luffy and Rob Lucci at Enies Lobby is easily one of the most memorable fights in One Piece. With Lucci representing the oppressive World Government that took Robin, the stakes were deeply personal for Luffy.

The fight itself was a brutal back-and-forth display of their powers, with Luffy unleashing new techniques like Gear Second to match Lucci’s leopard-enhanced speed and strength. What truly elevated this fight was the emotional weight behind it, capped off by a defiant Luffy declaring he would take Robin back no matter what. With high stakes, intense action, and plenty of heart, Luffy vs Lucci captures why One Piece delivers some of the most memorable battles in anime.

2

Monkey D. Luffy vs. Usopp

Arc: Enies Lobby

The confrontation between Luffy and Usopp over the fate of the Going Merry is one of the most heartbreaking fights in One Piece. Though Luffy emerges victorious, his reluctance to battle his friend depicts the emotional weight of their disagreement.

Usopp cleverly employs various gadgets and traps, yet Luffy’s brute strength overpowers his efforts. While Luffy decides they need a new ship to progress, Usopp’s attachment to the Merry runs deeper than utility. This fight is not about might but ideals. Their enduring friendship withstands this temporary parting. The emotional intensity of their duel highlights themes of loyalty and difficult choices over sentimentality. Ultimately, Luffy and Usopp’s bond perseveres despite the painful fight.

1

Monkey D. Luffy vs. Kaido

Arc: Wano

When Monkey D. Luffy confronts tyrannical ruler Kaido in Wano, their fated duel pushes Luffy to his limits. Though initially defeated with one crushing blow, Luffy refuses to surrender. After intense training that unlocks formidable new techniques, he returns to battle Kaido again on Onigashima.

What follows is a deadly back and forth, with each fighter unleashing their full, devastating power against one another. Luffy finds strength in his unbreakable will and bonds with his crewmates. In the end, a courageous final attack topples the mighty Kaido once and for all. More than a mere contest between pirates, this victory cements Luffy’s growth into an Emperor of the Sea through perseverance, ingenuity and faith in his friends.