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Who is Scopper Gaban in One Piece? Discover the character’s role in the series, abilities, and theories regarding his significance.
One Piece excels at creating excitement around a character a long time before its eventual introduction in the story. Scopper Gaban is one of the best examples of this—only shown through minor flashback sequences in the series. However, finally appearing in chapter 1139 of the One Piece manga, his presence has created enormous hype while leaving room for multiple theories. So, who is Scopper Gaban in One Piece?
Scopper Gaban was the left hand of the Pirate King, having accompanied Roger for his journey and settling down in Elbaph following his retirement. Viewers are well-acquainted with the right hand, Rayleigh. However, Gaban received very little exposition. Thankfully, his reveal was worth the wait. Here is a closer look at this character.
Who Is Scopper Gaban in One Piece?
As mentioned above, Scopper Gaban is a formidable figure who used to be a pirate and a close friend of Roger. He served the Pirate King faithfully right up until his death, with his influence comparable to that of Rayleigh’s.
In his younger years, Gaban was a more straightforward man who showed immense respect towards Roger. He had a signature smile on his face, jumping into battle during any confrontation of the Roger Pirates. This was best seen during their confrontation against Shiki’s crew in the Edd War and Gaban’s fight against Oden.
Gaban was also considerate about Roger’s condition but realized he couldn’t do anything to defy the Pirate King’s true nature. As an older man in Elbaph, Gaban has become much more carefree.
He preaches about how love transcends any restriction between races, calling himself the “Preacher of Love.” As proof of this, he has become Ripley’s partner and is Colon’s father.
Despite his easygoing nature, he still remains cautious, not readily accepting Luffy’s wishes. While Gaban seems to be leading an enjoyable retired life in Elbaph, fans surmise that the plot might hold more relevance for him.
Scopper Gaban’s Strengths and Abilities
Many believe Scopper Gaban’s strength is similar to that of Roger and Rayleigh, while he could fight on equal grounds against Oden. Gaban is renowned as the “Mountain Eater”, having defeated hundreds of pirates aiming to kill a weakened Roger. In the process, he nearly destroyed the entire mountain, placing his name in the history books.
To showcase his unbelievable strength in battle, Gaban mainly uses two axes. He carries this forward even as an old man, alerting the Straw Hats of his presence by throwing them. Gaban also shows capability with Observation Haki, having sensed the Holy Knights in the castle.
Almost all of Gaban’s abilities are yet to be revealed, but it is no overestimation to say he is one of the most powerful figures in the series currently. He completed the quest of finding the One Piece, reaching the Laugh Tale with Roger. This is a testament to his strength and mental fortitude, able to get through a journey filled with tribulations.
Scopper Gaban’s Role in the Elbaph Arc
Gaban’s first proper appearance in One Piece has come in the Elbaph Arc, and it has lived up to the expectations of all the fans. When Luffy was trying to find the keys to free Loki, an intimidating man with a large grin named Ya-san appeared.
He mentioned his connection to Ripley and Colon before exchanging some playful banter with Luffy and the Straw Hats. However, the mood quickly shifted when Ya-san shared his views about letting Loki go free. Rather than expressing fear, he seemed thrilled because of the new troublemakers who arrived, wishing to test them.
Hence, right before Luffy found the key, Ya-san grabbed it. He exposed his identity as Scopper Gaban, challenging Luffy to a fight with the key on the line. Therefore, Gaban’s presence in Elbaph is far from a coincidence.
He has been spending his retirement here, raising a family and safekeeping the key that restrains Loki. At the same time, with the appearance of the Holy Knights, he will likely be moved into action to protect his home and loved ones.
There have also been assumptions that Gaban will become a new mentor to Luffy, imparting his wisdom and experience. While it is yet to be shown whether this iconic pirate is stronger than Gear 5 Luffy, his knowledge of the Void Century and the One Piece will prove to be very helpful.
In addition, there is a much more popular theory that has been making the rounds ever since Gaban’s introduction. This alludes to his identity as the Man Marked by Flames.
Is Scopper Gaban the Man Marked by Flames?
The Man Marked by Flames is one of One Piece’s greatest mysteries. He is believed to have the final Road Poneglyph on the path to Laugh Tale. Currently, the location of only three Road Poneglyphs is known, while the final one was at Fish-Man Island at some point.
However, it has since gone missing, and most suspect that the enigmatic Man Marked by Flames has it. Though nothing is known regarding his identity, common assumptions point toward Saul or Sabo.
With the introduction of Gaban, a new equation is added to the mix. Gaban was acquainted with King Neptune, the ruler of the Ryugu Kingdom on Fish-Man Island. He also found Laugh Tale with Roger, proving he knew the location of the final Road Poneglyph. Along with this, the older Gaban in Elbaph has a distinctive mark on his face, though the reason for this is not known currently. Therefore, there is more than enough reason for him to be the Man Marked by Flames.
While it remains to be seen whether Gaban is the Man Marked by Flames, Oda doesn’t reintroduce characters without reason. His interest in Luffy and prior connection to the Poneglyph indicate a strong possibility of him fulfilling this role. Nevertheless, fans eagerly anticipate several standout moments from Gaban as we progress into the Final Saga.
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