10 One Piece Characters Who Outshine Luffy in Growth and Power

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Shonen anime is not just about growth and progress, it’s also an epic tale that showcases these elements exceptionally well. What makes it captivating for diverse audiences is its focus on personal development, transforming ordinary individuals into extraordinary ones. Characters like Monkey D. Luffy have undergone significant internal and external transformations, such as acquiring his Gears and valuing his crew more deeply. However, there are some characters who have grown beyond these changes.

Over time, numerous companions of Luffy’s Straw Hat crew, as well as a multitude of individuals they encountered at sea, have undergone significant transformations since their initial days. These characters evolved in various ways – from being victims to becoming heroic figures, acquiring immense power and using it for benevolent purposes, or maturing emotionally to become more esteemed individuals. The growth journeys of these characters are some of the most captivating storylines found within One Piece, and it’s no surprise that many of these developed characters now stand as Luffy’s closest friends and associates.

Debut Episode: “I’m Luffy! The Man Who Will Become the Pirate King!”

Many members of Luffy’s crew possess remarkable personal growth stories, and these developments are frequently just as fulfilling as Luffy’s. It’s even more impressive that they didn’t have the advantage of Gear 5 to transform or a mentor like Shanks to inspire them. Reflecting on Roronoa Zoro’s progression as a swordsman and hero adds to this sense of wonder.

Originally, Roronoa Zoro was a bounty hunter and an adversary to pirates, and prior to that, he was an insecure child who futilely attempted to outmatch Kuina in sword fights. These experiences left Zoro feeling aimless as an individual, and he hit rock bottom as a disgraced captive in Shells Town. Presently, Zoro is a member of the Straw Hat crew and is nearing his goal of becoming the world’s top swordsman, mastering Haki in the process.

Debut Episode: “Kizaru Appears! A Trap Aimed at Tiger!”

The character Koala from “One Piece” showcases an exceptional transformation journey, starting at a much more disadvantaged position than Luffy ever faced. When audiences first encountered her, Koala was a captive child with unkempt hair and a seemingly grim future. However, after gaining her freedom, Koala embarked on an incredible trajectory of development, becoming a determined figure ready to combat evil and potentially save the world.

Koala, once a youngster, has blossomed significantly, transforming into a self-assured 20-something who actively contributes to the group. Although she’s not frequently noticed, her presence remains respected within the team. Moreover, she exudes an air of confidence and maturity that surpasses her previous self. Fans delight in their comedic camaraderie on screen with Sabo, who regards Koala as a peer and esteemed ally.

Debut Episode: “Luffy’s Freezing to Death!? The Terrifying Snow Woman, Monet!”

In the world of “One Piece”, many children possess vast potential for development, and Momonosuke, the boy in robes, serves as a striking illustration of this. The Straw Hat crew first encountered him in the New World, a youngster with a bit of an attitude. Similar to Kin’emon, Momonosuke offered a glimpse into the nation of Wano. When the Straw Hats arrived in Wano, Momonosuke started his true journey of growth.

Through a significant revelation, it’s been unveiled that Momonosuke is a descendant of the Kozuki family from yesteryears. Now, in the current timeline, he yearns deeply for Wano’s liberation from Kurozumi Orochi’s oppressive rule. As the war came to an end, Momonosuke matured into a well-rounded young adult, eager to step forward and guide Wano towards a brighter, more prosperous future as its respected shogun.

Debut Episode: “The Famous Cook! Sanji of the Floating Restaurant”

Among the Straw Hat crew members, Vinsmoke Sanji showcases a personal development that matches or even surpasses Luffy’s own remarkable growth. While Luffy was a simple child from Windmill Village, Sanji had a more challenging beginning as an unwanted child within the high-tech society of Germa 66. Unlike Luffy, Sanji was labeled as “weak” and destined for a life confined behind bars due to his supposed lack of strength. However, with the assistance of his sister Reiju, he managed to break free from this fate.

Subsequently, Sanji embarked on his genuine ambition to excel as an exceptional chef, and during this journey, he picked up valuable skills in culinary arts and combat after crossing paths with Chef Zeff. Despite his growth, Sanji continued to mature, as he was yet to learn the importance of camaraderie upon joining the Straw Hat crew. Over time, Sanji has significantly improved his fighting prowess, mastering techniques, Haki, and even utilizing his Germa 66 attire effectively.

Debut Episode: “New Rivals Gather! The 11 Supernovas”

Trafalgar “Water” Law, originally, was a child who witnessed his entire community perish due to a terrible illness. He later joined the Donquixote family and learned the art of medicine, but what he truly needed was a significant turn of events. That turning point came when Doflamingo’s brother, Rosinante or Corazon, bestowed upon him an extraordinary power, dramatically enhancing young Law’s abilities. This moment was both exhilarating and humbling for Law, as Corazon sacrificed his own life in the process.

From there, the law continued to expand and eventually took on three distinct roles: captain of the Heart Pirates, one of the Eleven Supernovas, and a Sea Warlord. Despite not appearing to utilize his Warlord status much, it’s still remarkable how he managed to attain such a position. Law continued to grow in strength until he was ready to engage Big Mom alongside Eustass Kid and defeat her, bringing down an Emperor without needing Gear 5.

Debut Episode: “Who Will Win? Showdown Between the True Powers of the Devil Fruit!”

Initially portrayed as a cowardly charlatan in Syrup Village, Usopp appeared far from the mold of a genuine pirate. His arsenal was filled with tricks and deceit rather than substance. However, this image underwent a significant transformation. Usopp showed courage when defending Kya from Captain Kuro, which caught Luffy’s attention and led to his inclusion in the Straw Hat Pirates crew. This marked a turning point for Usopp’s character development.

Following this, Usopp significantly advanced as a warrior, employing his distinctive deception and long-range attacks to establish himself as a supportive fighter within the Straw Hat crew. This development was further emphasized as Usopp acquired updated and superior ammunition for his slingshot, along with the strategic acumen necessary to fully utilize them effectively. Usopp even assumed the title of Sniper King, or Sogeking, which signifies a level of achievement far surpassing anything he had accomplished in Syrup Village. Additionally, Usopp has undergone significant personal growth, transitioning from a character who was prone to exaggeration, much like the boy who cried wolf, to a courageous and reliable crewmate who overcame his confrontation with Luffy at Water 7.

Debut Episode: “Enter Sabo! The Boy From Gray Terminal”

In his childhood, Luffy had two foster brothers – Portgas D. Ace and a kind-hearted noble named Sabo. Unlike the haughty lifestyle of the nobility in Goa Kingdom, Sabo chose a path of selfless heroism. He distanced himself from his biological family to bond more closely with Ace and Luffy. It was believed that Sabo had perished, but he reappeared during the Dressrosa story arc.

Sabo has journeyed an exceptionally far distance from when he was a kid with a makeshift pirate toy and a vision of being a pirate. Now, he’s a member of the Revolutionary Army, lending his skills to a cause that transcends his own self-interest. Additionally, after consuming the Flame-Flame Fruit, Sabo has put Ace’s spirit to rest and taken on the mantle as a flaming hero in Ace’s place.

Debut Episode: “Deliver Princess Vivi! Luffy Pirates Depart”

Nico Robin is another member of the Straw Hat crew who has left her difficult past behind and embraced a bolder, more hopeful future for herself. In the past, young Robin saw her people and home destroyed when the Buster Call struck Ohara, causing her to flee as a fugitive known as a “devil child.” Later in life, adult Robin became part of Baroque Works and consumed the Flower-Flower Fruit, but these advancements were ultimately insignificant looking back.

Robin’s significant development occurred when she unassumingly became part of the Straw Hats following her transformation from a former antagonist. While some One Piece enthusiasts may dispute this, suggesting that Robin was not truly villainous beneath the surface, it is crucial to note that she embraced the genuine strength of friendship and reciprocated its value fully. Using her unique abilities derived from the Flower-Flower Fruit in innovative ways, Robin continued to evolve and strengthen. Beneath her exterior, Robin transitioned from a timid, self-centered individual into a loyal friend willing to sacrifice everything for justice.

Debut Episode: “Nami is Sick? Beyond the Snow That Falls on the Ocean!”

In a different take, the character known as Mr. 2 Bon Clay, or Bentham, is another example of a former villain who has significantly altered the perception of fans in the world of “One Piece”. Initially, he was a comical yet menacing adversary during the Alabasta saga, employing his cunning strategies and attacks. However, it was the kindness shown by Sanji that triggered his transformation. Mr. 2 swiftly redeemed himself and bravely risked his life to aid his new Straw Hat companions in their escape from Alubarna’s ports. Luffy recognized that he owed a debt of gratitude to Mr. 2 for this selfless act.

In yet another selfless act, Mr. 2 persisted in his efforts, this time putting everything on the line to allow Luffy to evade an imminent peril. Previously known for his villainous behavior and desire to harm others while flaunting his abilities, Mr. 2 has now transformed into a hero admired by countless fans of One Piece. He currently holds the prestigious position of regent in New Kama Land, a significant step up from his days as a subordinate to Sir Crocodile.

Debut Episode: “New Rivals Gather! The 11 Supernovas”

Readers of the “One Piece” manga know that Jewelry Bonnie is not just a character for laughs, with her large appetite and the powers granted by her Age-Age Fruit. Beyond this humorous side, Bonnie is actually Bartholomew Kuma’s adopted daughter, who, during her formative years, was kept inside a church in the Sorbet Kingdom to ensure her safety. During the quieter moments of her character development, she could only wonder about what her foster father might have been up to.

In due course, Bonney transcended her role as a pirate captain and emerged as one of the Supernovas, placing her alongside heavyweights such as Trafalgar Law, Basil Hawkins, Roronoa Zoro, and even Captain Blackbeard. With her prowess in battle honed through the bonds of trust and friendship forged with the Straw Hats, Bonney has proven herself to be a formidable force in the manga, as demonstrated by numerous thrilling scenes. Remarkably, Bonney has unlocked her own Nika form, mirroring Luffy’s power, earning her the moniker of Joy Girl as she aided Luffy in battling his most formidable adversaries on Egghead.

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2025-05-31 06:43