Despite the fact that Chapter 1071 has not yet been officially released, fans have already begun to speculate about what One Piece Chapter 1072 may have in store for them. Fans are currently in awe of how many plots the extraordinarily thick issue sets up for the near future, with Chapter 1071 having been unofficially revealed.
As a result, the main debate surrounding One Piece Chapter 1072’s story content has been precisely what may be revealed, confirmed, or rejected in the issue’s pages. For many fans, the Egghead Island arc has been the best work in a long time from series author and illustrator Eiichiro Oda, and they can’t wait to see what’s next.
Table of Contents
In One Piece Chapter 1072, viewers may get more details about Kuma’s fate, Elbaf’s debut, and other big surprises.
1) Dr. Vegapunk’s enigmatic ally
Without a question, the most significant and likely revelation in One Piece Chapter 1072 will be the identity of Dr. Vegapunk’s secret ally. While there are numerous theories on the internet regarding who it could be, all of them are theoretical, with no concrete evidence revealing who it could be.
The absence of the Den Den Mushi Dr. Vegapunk used to communicate with his ally is a major indicator that it is a returning character rather than a new one. Den Den Mushis frequently replicate the facial traits of individuals on the other side, implying that it is a previously introduced character with a distinct and identifiable appearance.
2) The genuine Bartholomew Kuma, not a cyborg, is alive and well
One of the most common hypotheses is that the real Bartholomew Kuma is still alive and has not totally transformed into a cyborg, as fans had previously been told. According to the hypothesis, Dr. Vegapunk provided the Celestial Dragons with a true Pacifista model by hiding Kuma away on Egghead Island until the moment was perfect for his return.
While such a plot twist could be disclosed in One Piece Chapter 1072, fans will most likely have to wait a little longer for confirmation. Nonetheless, there is a chance that fans will see the real Bartholomew Kuma return in all his splendour in the upcoming issue.
3) The cause for Kuma’s return to Mariejois
If it is found that the real Kuma is not Dr. Vegapunk’s ally, it is likely that the real Kuma has returned to Mariejois. Fans may learn why Kuma might return so soon after departing through Dr. Vegapunk’s conversation with Bonney.
One theory is that it has to do with “Mariejois’ secret treasure,” which Doflamingo hinted about during the Dressrosa arc. Another theory is that Kuma is after Im-sama and found out about him through Sabo after being rescued by the Flame Emperor. While fans may learn the complete picture in One Piece Chapter 1072, a little development is far more likely.
4) Why can’t Dr. Vegapunk change Kuma back?
Similarly, one of the most likely surprises fans will learn about in One Piece Chapter 1072 is why Dr. Vegapunk is unable to transform Kuma back. His phrasing in the unofficial release of Chapter 1071 makes it appear as if he has the ability to do so but is unable to do so due to some hitherto unknown aim or reason.
Furthermore, depending on Kuma’s present fate, the exact reason can be linked to any of the preceding entries. Thankfully, if Dr. Vegapunk’s conversation with Bonney occurs before the aforementioned issues are confirmed, disputed, or addressed, fans will have a clear notion of why Dr. Vegapunk will not turn Kuma back.
5) Garp’s strategy for Blackbeard
One Piece Chapter 1072 contains a completely independent revelation about Garp’s plan of attack to rescue Koby from Blackbeard. This is backed further by the fact that Chapter 1071 concludes with the revelation of Garp’s goals. As a result, the most obvious place to begin Chapter 1072 is with the Marine Vice-Admiral.
Furthermore, given that he is Luffy’s grandfather, the usage of the word “plan” here may be a little liberal, much as Luffy’s actions are difficult to justify as part of a plan. In either event, Garp is planning an attack, whether it’s as simple as breaking through the front doors of Hachinosu Island or a more devious means to free Koby.
6) The SWORD leader has been exposed
The true leader of SWORD and the group’s structure are very likely to be exposed in One Piece Chapter 1072. Because Koby and Helmeppo are both members of the gang, many fans have long assumed Garp to be its leader. Given his actions at the end of Chapter 1071, this appears more plausible than not.
However, an official reveal is still required, and the next issue would be an excellent opportunity to do it. It would explain why Garp is so interested in rescuing Koby (apart from their pre-existing friendship), as well as finally shed light on the SWORD group.
7) First appearance of Elbaf
Finally, One Piece Chapter 1072 may reveal for the first time to fans the current situation of the famous island of Elbaf. Kid’s landing on the island in Chapter 1071 marks the first time a character in the series has visited the island in the present day. It’s also feasible that Oda may offer fans an early glimpse by focusing on Kid’s present visit there rather than Luffy’s eventual one.
One disadvantage of this is that many fans who wanted to see Elbaf for the first time with the Straw Hat Pirates may be disappointed. This is especially relevant given how many distinct Straw Hats appear to have narratives that will complete or be strengthened by the Elbaf Island arc.
One Piece Chapter 1071 Release Date
One Piece Chapter 1071 will be released on January 8, 2023, at 12 a.m. JST, followed by Chapter 1072 the following week.