The character-driven story of One Piece could potentially have a momentous emotional death of a Straw Hat Pirate, but it’s not who you think.

As the Elbaf Arc progresses, more and more theories are popping up in the One Piece fandom sphere. If any fanbase overthinks, it’s this one, and it doesn’t end at Loki’s Devil Fruit. With the manga ending soon, fans are anticipating the death of a beloved character to occur in the events of the Elbaf Arc, especially with how overpowered Loki is. One Piece is overdue for another emotional death and what’s more emotional than if one of the Straw Hat Pirates ends up dying? However, the prediction is it won’t be a fan favorite like Roronoa Zoro or “Black Leg” Sanji but the sniper, Usopp.

Usopp in the Syrup Village Arc of One Piece. [Credit: Toei Animation]

All of the Straw Hat Pirates have admirable dreams that they wish to fulfill together. From being the greatest swordsman to reuniting with Laboon, it varies from tearjerking to legendary. Usopp’s dream is to become a brave warrior of the sea, just like his father Yasopp of the Red Hair Pirates. However, the definition of “brave” is loose and could mean anything in the world of One Piece. What could this mean for the Straw Hat Sniper?

What Bravery Means For Usopp’s Fate in One Piece

Usopp fights Luffy in Water 7 in One Piece. [Credit: Toei Animation]

One of the most prominent parts of Usopp’s personality is his cowardice. The Straw Hat panics at any threat and fears Luffy’s impulsive nature will get them into trouble. However, there are plenty of moments where Usopp shines and musters courage enough to fight back.

While Usopp’s defiance of Luffy in the Water 7 Arc was the highlight of his character back then, fans forget he faced the Franky Family all by himself to the best of his abilities. He’s the person who set the World Government flag on fire too. In the Dressrosa Arc, he knocked out an integral antagonist twice, earning the meme title, God Usopp. Thus, Usopp can definitely be brave when it matters, showing how multidimensional he is beyond the comic relief.

So then what else is left for his character arc that hasn’t been done yet? Most of the emotional deaths that have occurred in One Piece revolve around sacrifice. Whether it’s Pedro or Ace, they have all given their lives to protect others. It isn’t unreasonable to think Usopp might face the same fate at some point in the Final Saga. His dream of becoming a brave warrior of the sea might mean something entirely different from what his father is. It might mean the ultimate sacrifice that he fears so strongly.

Usopp Is More Than Just A Coward

Usopp “disguised” as Sogeking in One Piece. [Credit: Toei Animation]

Usopp’s heart has conviction, loyalty and honor that is so unexpected from a character whose gag is to be a coward and a liar. His loyalty to the Going Merry makes him realize the intense loyalty he has towards Luffy and listens to his commands, just like Zoro would. He doesn’t need any more moments to prove he does have bravery within him.

If Usopp sacrifices himself, whether it’s in Elbaf or beyond, it will be unexpected and will completely change the game. The Straw Hats will be mourning for a while, as will we. While we sincerely hope none of them die within the series, Usopp’s dream might take a tragic turn that will memorialize him forever in One Piece.