Sanji getting Conqueror's Haki in One Piece would come with a heavy cost

The power levels of One Piece characters have always been one of the most discussed aspects of the series. Although the story is built upon a world where the entire power balance revolves around Devil Fruits and Haki, Sanji remains one of the few prominent characters who does not specialize in either.

Sanji currently shares the position of a Yonko commander alongside Zoro. However, Zoro's power level is often considered much higher due to his frequent clashes against powerful opponents. Sanji’s integral role within the crew, combined with his story being closely tied to the Germa Kingdom, already grants him access to a wide range of abilities.

Sanji’s next power-up coming through Conqueror's Haki would detract from the richness of his character and the unique abilities already introduced in the series.

Disclaimer- This article contains spoilers for One Piece and reflects the author's opinions.

One Piece: Sanji receiving additional abilities will devalue the series' richness

Sanji as shown in Whole Cake Island arc (Image via Toei Animation)

Sanji was first introduced during the Baratie arc and quickly became one of the most popular characters in the series due to his gap-moe personality, contrasting his gentlemanly demeanor with his borderline perverted tendencies.

While his reputation suffered at times due to his role as a gag character being overused in various arcs, his backstory exploring his struggles with the Vinsmoke family and the reveal of his true history significantly elevated his standing among fans.

Sanji currently possesses Armament Haki and Observation Haki, which, when combined with his genetic enhancements, make him one of the strongest individuals in the series. While the current heavy hitters in One Piece, especially within the Straw Hat crew, rely heavily on Conqueror's Haki and Devil Fruits, as exemplified by Luffy and Zoro's power levels, the series has introduced numerous other abilities.

Techniques such as the Marines' Rokushiki, Fishman Karate, and Ms. Goldenweek's Colors Trap serve as reminders of the diverse powers that can elevate characters to the upper echelons of combat.

Sanji as shown in the Egghead Island arc (Image via Toei Animation)

Sanji's mastery of both Armament and Observation Haki presents the potential for him to become one of the most innovative heavy hitters in the series, capable of fighting Yonko commanders without the need for Conqueror's Haki. His story, which portrays him as a "normal" individual rejected by the Vinsmoke family and lacking innate special qualities, highlights his ability to defy the odds and grow strong enough to challenge formidable opponents.

Conqueror's Haki, closely tied to fate and often seen as a marker of the "chosen one," would contradict the essence of Sanji's character. Introducing it as part of his arsenal would diminish his persona as a determined underdog who rises through hard work and innovation. Sanji's eventual power-up should instead stem from honing his existing abilities or exploring alternative power systems that align with the richly crafted world of One Piece.

Final Thoughts

Roronoa Zoro and Vinsmoke Sanji, along with their respective fandoms, have been clashing ever since their introductions. While Zoro is unequivocally the first mate of the crew and one of its strongest combatants, Sanji holds an equally important role, exemplified by Luffy's venture into the Whole Cake Island arc.

The One Piece anime entered a hiatus following the Hachinosu mini-arc and is set to resume airing in April 2025. One Piece chapter 1133 will be released on December 8, 2024, progressing the plot further into the Elbaf arc.