Unraveling the Shadows: Blackbeard's Connection to Rocks D. Xebec in One Piece's Final Saga

As the final saga of One Piece unfolds, the creator is keen on shaping the roles of each significant character, particularly Blackbeard. Known for his villainous ways among pirates, Teach has reaffirmed his status as a formidable adversary through his recent developments. With each subsequent chapter being released, readers have observed an intriguing link between Blackbeard and the infamous captain of the Rocks Pirates, Rocks D. Xebec.

In a recent Q&A section from Weekly Shonen Jump’s issue 49 of 2024, the creator was questioned about a potential connection between Blackbeard and Rocks D. Xebec, especially since Blackbeard’s ship is named Saber of Xebec. Instead of revealing detailed plot points, the creator’s response stirred speculation among fans. While the term Xebec describes a type of sailing vessel, the resemblance may hint at deeper ties rather than mere coincidence. A xebec, recognized as a Mediterranean ship primarily used for trade, serves as the flagship for the Blackbeard Pirates.

This warship is notably equipped to navigate the Calm Belt, and its design parallels that of a classic xebec, which could explain the choice of name. Nevertheless, if the naming was simply a nod to a style of ship, the vagueness of the creator's response raises questions. Many fans suspect that a significant connection must exist between Blackbeard and Rocks D. Xebec, which may unfold in the concluding chapters of the saga.

Several links can be drawn between Rocks D. Xebec and Marshall D. Teach. Their shared surnames reveal both belong to the Will of D clan, although not every member shares a direct familial tie; Rocks might serve as a role model for Blackbeard. The historical gap between their timelines suggests that Teach could not possibly have been a prodigy in the Rocks Pirates crew. However, if one imagines Blackbeard as being Xebec's offspring, the timeline begins to align. Moreover, both figures aspire to become the 'King of the World,' reflecting a shared ideology. It’s conceivable that Blackbeard aspires to fulfill Rocks’ unrealized ambitions, with Saber of Xebec symbolizing the legacy of his idol.

Presently, Blackbeard’s crew occupies Hachinosu, known as Pirate Island or the pirate paradise, which is the very location where the notorious Rocks Pirates initially formed. Given that both characters share a desire to create chaos and realize their visions for domination, there is a plausible theory that the creator is gearing up for an explosive revelation in the storyline ahead. Readers can access the One Piece manga on Viz Media, while the anime is currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll.