Oda Confirms One Piece's Current Top Power

Eiichiro Oda has identified Nerona Imu as the strongest figure in One Piece at present. The revelation comes during the Elbaf arc, with Chapter 1197 scheduled for November 1, 2026. Imu is placed above Luffy, Loki, and Gol D. Roger in the series' power hierarchy.
Eiichiro Oda’s ranking places Nerona Imu above Luffy, Loki, and Gol D. Roger in One Piece’s present hierarchy. Imu entered the Elbaf storyline in Chapter 1179, published April 5, 2026, and quickly defeated Stansen, Hajrudin, Zoro, and Sanji in succession. Imu then overpowered Loki and nearly killed Luffy before Scopper Gaban intervened.
Gaban managed to wound Imu with Supreme King Haki, yet Imu revealed another transformation. The manga presents Imu as fighting at only a fraction of full strength. Chapter 1197 is scheduled for November 1, 2026, in Weekly Shonen Jump Issue 49.
The reveal could intensify fan debates about power scaling and may shape how readers discuss One Piece’s endgame. It could also affect anime-only viewers through spoilers and increase anticipation for Chapter 1197. Publishers and merchandisers may see heightened engagement around Imu-themed content, while forums and social platforms could experience renewed speculation.