
Recent storylines in One Piece have sparked a lot of debate about Luffy. Some fans feel his successes aren’t earned through his own efforts, but are instead due to a predetermined destiny – inheriting the will of Roger, possessing the Nika fruit (previously belonging to Joyboy), and other factors. This idea that his achievements were preordained has proven to be quite controversial.
I’ve been seeing a lot of debate among One Piece fans about whether Luffy is destined for greatness, a ‘chosen one’ type of character. But chapter 1169 seems to be hinting at an answer, and if my read is correct, it could be a really clever twist – honestly, it’s exactly the kind of surprise a One Piece fan would love.
One Piece Reveals That Luffy Was Never Supposed To Be Its Hero

Chapter 1169 of One Piece picked up right where the flashback with Harald left off, continuing the conversation between Shanks and Gaban. I learned that this is where Shanks first discovered Roger had a son. He even commented that if he were Roger’s child, he figured that person would likely be the next to claim the title of Pirate King.
Chapter 1169 of One Piece reveals that Shanks strongly wanted Ace to become the Pirate King. Considering the mystery surrounding why Shanks brought the Gum-Gum Fruit to Dawn Island, it now appears Ace was aware of the fruit’s special properties and went there to deliver it, fulfilling a request from Roger.
It’s been mentioned before that people expected Ace to become like Roger, and if even Shanks thought so, then Luffy getting the Gum-Gum Fruit was likely just chance. It wasn’t fate. Luffy only became a hero by taking the path Ace was meant to follow.
Why One Piece’s Latest Twist Is Secretly Great

If it’s true that Shanks intended for Ace to have the Gum-Gum Fruit, it emphasizes how much Luffy has earned his current strength. It also suggests Shanks recognized Luffy’s unique potential and shifted his plans to help him succeed, really showcasing Luffy’s natural ability to inspire others.
This reveal also deepens Ace’s character. It’s fitting that Luffy ended up with a power Ace couldn’t have, and it explains that Ace actively avoided becoming like Roger. By not having the Gum-Gum Fruit, Ace was able to forge his own path and define himself, rather than being overshadowed by Roger’s legacy.
Although fate plays a big role in the story of One Piece, it’s meant to be a helping hand, not a fixed path. Chapter 1169 really emphasizes this by suggesting Luffy isn’t a pre-determined hero, and that’s a welcome development as the story reaches its climax.
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2025-12-22 16:11