One Piece Theory: Shanks’ Tattoo May Be the Reason Roger Knew His Real Identity

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In the storyline of “One Piece,” known as the Elbaf Arc, excitement levels are soaring with the arrival of new villains and unexpected plot developments. It’s truly remarkable how Shanks, despite being off the island, is receiving significant attention throughout this arc. Ever since Luffy encountered Loki, the young Yonko has been on a quest to find traces of the Red-Haired Pirate. Luffy made a vow to meet up with Shanks and return his Straw Hat once he becomes an outstanding pirate himself. As the years roll by, Luffy continues to eagerly anticipate the day they can reunite. Unfortunately, fans will have to be patient before their long-awaited meeting takes place once more.

During this period, the second segment of the Final Saga is exploding one revelation after another. Matters have grown increasingly intense since the Holy Knights arrived on the scene, and the true battle is about to commence once Luffy and his companions decide to join in. At the underworld with Loki, Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji were caught off guard when the Holy Knights launched their attack by kidnapping the children. Now that everyone is aware of the chaos unfolding in the Sun World, they’ve all made plans to eliminate the villains. However, before the fight begins, “One Piece” delves into another origin story and uncovers a significant secret regarding Shanks.

Shanks Has the Same Tattoo as the Holy Knights

In Chapter 1152 of One Piece, it’s unveiled that Shanks shares the same enigmatic tattoo with the Holy Knights. A flashback to 14 years ago shows Shanks and Gaban relaxing in a warm bath at Gaban’s residence, and the tattoo is prominently displayed on Shanks’ arm. Interestingly, this is the same arm that Shanks sacrificed for Luffy’s sake. Previously, we thought that the tattoo served as a means for Shanks to teach Luffy, a headstrong yet ambitious boy, about the perils of the sea. However, Luffy has evolved significantly since the event and adhered to Shanks’ lessons.

Upon closer inspection, I noticed something intriguing: The tattoo on this individual seems to share a likeness with the emblem of the World Government, yet it exhibits a notable disparity. This mark is far more than a mere status symbol; it grants its bearers the ability to traverse the treacherous Abyss, a demonic magic circle that swiftly teleports them across the globe in a heartbeat. Given this peculiarity, there’s a strong suspicion that this tattoo was bestowed upon Shanks and any Celestial Dragons at birth. This distinctive mark could signify nobility or serve as a branding by the World Government to identify their assets, individuals who are expected to utilize their abilities in service of the government. It’s also plausible that it played a role in Roger discovering Shanks’ true identity.

Why Is This Theory Plausible?

In the Wano Country Arc, we witnessed a flashback of Oden, providing insights into the travels of the Roger Pirates towards Laughtale. Once Roger concluded his voyage, he decided to turn himself in to the Marines as his remaining lifespan was minimal. In Chapter 968, Shanks posed a question to Roger, causing him to weep. The specifics of their dialogue remain unknown, but it’s possible that it may relate to Shanks’ true identity. If Shanks has always borne the tattoo on his arm, then it would be logical for Roger to be aware that Shanks is connected to one of the World Noble lineages.

Chapter 1149 implies that the Roger Pirates and the Holy Knights had clashed in past encounters, given Sommers’ acquaintance with Gaban. If one notices their shared tattoos, it becomes evident they’ve crossed paths. This was the final encounter Shanks witnessed between them, and he paid a visit to Mariejois shortly afterwards. Although the specifics of his trip are unknown, it’s now clear that he remained in Mariejois for an extended period before resuming his pirate life once more.

From their discussion in Chapter 1152, it’s clear that Gaban seems well-informed about the Red-Haired Pirate, referring to him as the “Child of Fate.” It’s been revealed that Shanks was adopted by Roger 38 years ago during the God Valley Incident and was subsequently raised to be a pirate. At the time of his adoption, the island was inhabited by the natives of God Valley, slaves, and Celestial Dragons. However, it’s unusual for a child to be kept in a treasure chest, especially considering the unsavory nature of the World Nobles. Given that the sea is all Shanks has ever known, it would be hard for him to associate with such detestable individuals as the World Nobles.

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2025-06-26 04:09