Imu Leads Ranking of One Piece's Strongest Characters

As of 2026, the article ranks the ten strongest characters in the One Piece universe, reflecting the ongoing debates as Eiichiro Oda's manga approaches its Final Saga. The rankings consider battle feats, Devil Fruit powers, and advanced Haki mastery.

Imu (Nerona Imu) is ranked first, identified as the hidden sovereign of the World Government, though his status remains unconfirmed. Monkey D. Luffy of the Straw Hat Pirates follows in second place, utilizing Gear 5 and Advanced Conqueror's Haki, with his Devil Fruit being the Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika.

Shanks from the Red Hair Pirates is third, noted for his Supreme Conqueror's Haki. Other notable characters include Kaido, Dracule Mihawk, Sakazuki (Akainu), Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard), Monkey D. Garp, Kuzan (Aokiji), and Monkey D. Dragon, each with unique abilities and significant roles in the narrative.

The rankings incorporate analysis from various manga chapters up to the Elbaf arc in 2026.