Before finalizing the story of One Piece, Eiichiro Oda had a different path in mind for Roronoa Zoro. Early drafts showed Zoro as a pirate working under Buggy the Clown, which would’ve placed him on the opposite side of the story’s main crew.
Thankfully, Oda changed course and introduced Zoro as Luffy’s first crewmate. That decision helped define the Straw Hat dynamic and gave fans one of the most loyal and iconic swordsmen in all of anime.
More One Piece Facts
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Luffy Only Bathes Once a Week According to Oda
Luffy only bathes once a week, focusing on becoming the Pirate King.
Oda Made Chopper Smaller to Stand Out
Oda made Chopper smaller so he wouldn’t be overshadowed by the crew.
Sanji’s Left Eye Was Revealed After the Time Skip
Chapter 598 finally showed Sanji’s left eye after years of mystery.
Shanks Lost His Arm Because of an Editor’s Suggestion
Oda revealed Shanks lost his arm due to an editor's advice for more drama.
Zoro Was the Only Straw Hat Luffy Planned to Recruit
Zoro was Luffy’s only crew member he planned to recruit from the start.
Why Nami Can Hurt Luffy Without Using Haki
Oda said Nami hurts Luffy by crushing his spirit, not his rubber body.
