Whose Straw Hat dream will come true first and last?
Now that we are approaching Elbaf and the final stages of the story, I want to share a theory that's been on my mind for a while about the dreams of the East Blue group.
In the famous barrel scene where Sanji, Luffy, Zoro, Nami, and Usopp share their dreams, I find it interesting how Oda chose the order in which they revealed them. For example, he could have followed the order of their appearances in the story (or reversed it, making Luffy share his dream last for dramatic effect). But he chose to start with Sanji and end with Usopp.
And I think t's worth noting that this same order was preserved in the Live Action adaptation.
Now that we are in Elbaf, a place deeply connected to Usopp—who dreams of becoming a renowned warrior, and Elbaf is known for its brave fighters—I believe his dream might be the first to come true among the group.
However, even before this realization, I’ve had a theory that the order in which Oda had the Straw Hats state their dreams is actually the reverse order in which their dreams will come true. In other words:
Usopp → Nami → Zoro → Luffy → Sanji
(Come to think of it, the dream order does follow the order of the Straw Hat's appearance, the only one who is out of order actually IS Sanji lol)
(Of course, in between their dreams, the remaining five Straw Hats’ dreams will also come true. I’m suspecting that Robin is very close to hers as well)
If we consider their journey so far, this reversed order could hint at how the story will unfold.
Usopp’s dream will come true by the end of Elbaf
First, we know there will be a grand war in One Piece before the story ends. Luffy, whether he wants it or not, will need a massive army for this war. While he already gained one in Dressrosa, the giants could become involved—and possibly essential. I think that by the end of the arc, either Loki or Hajrudin will become the leader of Elbaf (probably King) and ally with Luffy on his Grand Fleet.
In Elbaf, where the giants have chosen not to fight anymore, I’m sure their perspective will change. Given the shifting tides, they’ll likely realize the need to protect themselves and return to their warrior roots. I think Usopp will play a key role in convincing them to fight again. In doing so, he’ll finally be recognized as the Great Warrior of the Sea by many.
Nami’s dream will come true by Laugh Tale
After Elbaf, it’s highly likely that Laugh Tale is next. Laugh Tale marks the end of their journey around the world. By this point, even if they haven’t physically visited every region besides the Grand Line, Nami will likely have completed her world map using the maps and references they’ve collected during their travels.
Zoro’s dream will come true during the Great War
Following that, the Great War will commence—a conflict that will likely bring back many of the Straw Hats’ previous foes, such as Doflamingo, Wapol, and possibly Buggy, Crocodile, and Mihawk. During this time, I believe Zoro will stay behind in a critical moment to face Mihawk in a rematch. He’ll win and finally achieve his dream of becoming the world’s greatest swordsman.
Luffy’s dream will come true by the end of the Great War
During the final battle, the identity of the main antagonist remains unclear. Many theories suggest Blackbeard, Imu, or even Buggy or Shanks. However, regardless of who it is, what matters is that Luffy will emerge victorious and reshape the world forever. There’s a prophecy that he will destroy Fishman Island, and many believe this will happen because Luffy will destroy the Red Line—specifically, the section where Mariejois resides. This act would dismantle the division and tyranny represented by the Celestial Dragons. By the end, Luffy will symbolize unity and freedom, fulfilling his destiny as the Pirate King. Let’s remember that we don’t know what exactly is his dream, but we do know that he needs to become Pirate King to achieve it.
Sanji’s dream will come true by the end of the One Piece
Finally, with the world at peace, the All Blue will form where the symbol of tyranny and separation—Mary Geoise—once stood. It will become a paradise, connecting the North, South, East, and West Blues. This will also be the place where Luffy liberated the world. Sanji, at last, will cook a massive feast for all the companions they made along their journey, celebrating with everyone’s favorite meals since now he has all of the ingredients in the world.
I guess this is it. This theory is not exactly new lol as I just found out, as I went looking for images in google, that a lot of fans are also theorizing the same thing — which is actually a good sign for me lol
To end it, in an interview, Oda mentioned that he already has the final panel of the story planned. I’m willing to bet that this final scene will be a grand image of the Straw Hats enjoying a banquet together. Maybe we get a prologue after that, but I bet that the official end will have the Straw Hats all together.
