The ultimate battle of the Elbaph arc has begun in the One Piece manga, with Monkey D. Luffy engaging Saint Nerona Imu in a one-on-one confrontation.
According to leaks for Chapter 1188, the clash intensifies after Imu neutralizes Prince Loki of Elbaph.
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Luffy counters Imu's dark abilities by activating Gear 5, taking on a genie-like form to fight the World Government's secret ruler.
Imu wields a spear that transforms into a demonic sword named Void, stabbing Luffy in a manner reminiscent of his past encounter with Crocodile.
The chapter includes a flashback showing the original Joy Boy, highlighting that the legendary figure shared a similar smile with Luffy.
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Imu mocks Luffy, calling him a weak imitation of Joy Boy, but Luffy rejects the title, stating his only desire is freedom and becoming Pirate King.
Meanwhile, side stories progress: Brook tries to rescue Shuri after Imu's attack disrupts the giant beast Ragnir.
Zoro and Sanji fight Holy Knights empowered by Imu, with hints that Sanji may awaken Conqueror's Haki during his battle with Rimoshifu Killingham.
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After nearly three decades of buildup, the narrative shifts as the One Piece manga goes on a weekly break following Chapter 1188.
