Chapter 1166 of One Piece has delivered one of the biggest revelations of the Elbaf arc so far: author Eiichiro Oda has subtly but almost definitively hinted at the strongest candidate to become the final member of the Straw Hat Pirates. The chapter not only wraps up the shocking events at God Valley and the world-shaking death of Rocks D. Xebec but also highlights a crucial clue pointing toward Loki, the prince of Elbaf, as the one who may ultimately board the Thousand Sunny.
Loki’s potential as the final Straw Hat has long been discussed by fans, but chapter 1166 elevates this speculation into near confirmation. Oda reveals that Loki has always wished to follow the Sun God Nika, whom he once mistakenly believed was Rocks D. Xebec. Now that the truth is clear and with fans knowing Luffy is Nika the idea of Loki joining Luffy’s pirate crew is stronger than ever.
Oda Strongly Hints Loki Will Join the Straw Hats
Loki’s connection to Luffy was established early on. Even from their first meeting, Luffy showed a natural friendliness toward him and even extended an invitation for Loki to join the crew. Although Loki declined, he never showed hostility, and Luffy sensed no malice from him. It was simply too early because Loki had not yet discovered Luffy’s identity as Nika.
Chapter 1166 reveals that Loki shared important conversations with Rocks in the past. Loki once declared, “I will never follow a government dog like Harald!” showing his deep distrust of the World Government and his desire to follow someone capable of reshaping the world.
The key moment comes when Loki admits his dream: He wants to follow the Sun God Nika.
Although he falsely believed Rocks was Nika, the chapter confirms Loki’s true aspiration to accompany Nika in changing or even destroying the world. Now that readers know Luffy is Nika, Loki’s future path becomes clear.
Currently, Loki still does not know Luffy’s true identity. That is why he rejected the Straw Hat captain’s earlier offer. But once the Elbaf battles begin, Loki will inevitably realize Luffy is the real Nika he has been waiting for. When that happens, he will not refuse a second invitation.
Oda even emphasizes Loki’s loneliness through narration: “When the little hand of Elbaf’s prince rose, there was no one there to hold it.”
This line encapsulates why Loki seeks a leader who can change the world—a role Luffy is destined to fulfill.
Loki Is the Most Likely Final Straw Hat Member
Based on the narrative direction, emotional setup, and Loki’s stated desire to follow Nika, it is increasingly clear that Loki is the strongest candidate for the final Straw Hat spot. Luffy wants Loki on the ship, and Loki wants to follow Nika. The pieces align perfectly.
Fans can expect Loki and Luffy to eventually fight side by side perhaps even against the World Government itself. However, this moment will take time. The Elbaf flashback arc is still ongoing and may last several more months before returning to the present timeline, where the massive battles against the Holy Knights and Imu will begin.
But when the story returns to the present, Loki’s destiny is likely waiting for him: to become the final Straw Hat Pirate and join Luffy on his journey to change the world.
Sources: gamek