10 Best One Piece Characters With the Most Iconic Moments

The One Piece manga and anime series is packed with countless unforgettable moments. From adrenaline-pumping battles to emotionally charged scenes, the characters shine in their most iconic moments. Let’s dive into the ten best One Piece characters and the defining moments that have shaped this legendary series.

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10. Jinbei’s Resolution Against Big Mom

During the Whole Cake Island Arc, Jinbei’s confrontation with Big Mom stands as one of the most courageous moments in the best One Piece characters. As the former Warlord of the Sea, he understood the grave implication of defying an Emperor, yet he stood his ground.

When Big Mom attempted to take his lifespan using her Soul-Soul Fruit powers, Jinbei revealed that he feared nothing, not even death. He even emphasized his resolve when he declared his intention to join the Straw Hat Pirates, directly challenging Big Mom’s authority. He displayed his worth by becoming a Straw Hat member.

9. Nico Robin’s “I Want to Live”

The Enies Lobby Arc reached its emotional peak with Robin’s declaration. After spending two decades running from the World Government and believing she had no right to exist, she finally found the courage to express her deepest desire. Standing atop the Tower of Justice, she screamed the words that would forever change her life: “I want to live! Take me out to seas with you!”

The scene is made even more impactful by the crew’s immediate decision to burn the World Government flag. They officially declare war against the entire world for Robin’s sake thus making her one of the best One Piece characters.

8. Whitebeard’s Entrance at Marineford

Edward Newgate’s arrival at Marineford displayed why he was considered the World’s Strongest Man. As his massive ship emerged from beneath the sea, the entire battlefield fell silent in anticipation. His entrance was a statement of a father’s love for his son and the lengths he would go to save Ace.

Newgate’s first attack, which literally titled the entire bay, displayed his Tremor-Tremor Fruit power. His full might against the Marines’ Headquarters set the stage for the greatest war in One Piece history.

7. Sanji’’s Last Stance Against Enel

In the Skypiea Arc, Sanji’s confrontation with Enel reveals the true depth of his character. Despite facing a literally god-like opponent with the power of lightning, Sanji stood firm in defense of his crewmates. His actions displayed his code of honor and dedication to protecting others, especially women.

Even then when faced with a certain defeat, he maintained his composure and dignity. He chooses to light a cigarette in the face of overwhelming odds. He even thanked Enel for lighting it, making him one of the best One Piece characters with an epic stance.

6. Koby’s Courageous Honesty 

During the climax of the Marineford War, Koby’s intervention became a defining moment that changed the course of history. Having witnessed countless deaths and senseless violence, the young Marine found the courage to stand up and voice what everyone was too afraid to say.

Speaking about the futility of continued fighting, Koby temporarily halted even the most hardened warriors. His bravery in facing down fleet admiral Sakazuki showed how far he had grown since his first appearance in the series. For his courage and bravery, he is in this list of best One Piece characters with some of the most iconic moments in the series.

5. Garp’s Entry in Beehive

The Marine Hero’s arrival at the Blackbeard Pirates’ territory displayed why he was considered a legend even among legends. Garp’s bold move to enter enemy territory demonstrated his immense courage and his sense of justice.

Despite his advanced age, his presence alone was enough to cause tension in the pirate world. His entry perfectly captured his character — a man torn between his duty as a Marine and his love for his family and subordinates. Yet through all that he never wavers from his own path. 

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4. Shank’s Divine Departure

Shanks demonstrated his overwhelming power through his Conqueror’s Haki during his confrontation with Kid. The sheer force of his Haki made him foresee a glimpse of the future. When he saw the future, he jumped to stop Kid from using his ultimate technique. And before Kid could fire the weapon, Shanks unleashed his powerful ability “Divine Departure.” Relying solely on physical strength and mastery of Haki, his brilliant power display was enough to show everyone why he is considered one of the most formidable Emperors in One Piece. 

3. Roronoa Zoro’s “Nothing Happened” Moment

The aftermath of Thriller Bark produced one the most memorable moments for one of the best One Piece characters. After the defeat of Gecko Moria, Bartholomew Kuma offered to spare the crew if he could take Luffy’s head.

Zoro, despite being severely wounded from previous battles, offered his life instead. When Kuma decided to test Zoro’s resolve by having him experience all of Luffy’s pain and fatigue, Zoro accepted without hesitation. The next morning, when Sanji found him standing in a pool of his own blood  and asked what happened, Zoro’s simple response was – “Nothing Happened.”

2. Luffy’s Gear 5 in Egghead Island

The second place on this list of the best One Piece characters with the most epic moments is occupied by Monkey D. Luffy. The revelation of Gear 5 during Egghead Island Arc fundamentally changed everything fans thought they knew about Luffy’s powers.

Here, he voluntarily awakens the mythical Nika fruit that connected him to an ancient legacy of joy and freedom. He made his surroundings and serious combat look like cartoon elements that perfectly embody his characters. The Gear 5’s visual spectacle along with fluid movements and reality-bending capabilities made it mesmerizing to watch.

1. Going Merry’s Funeral – The Best One Piece Characters Moment

The farewell to the Going Merry stands as the most iconic moment in all of the best One Piece characters. Even though it was their ship, it still has a soul or spirit that is made from Straw Hats’ love and adventures. After carrying the Straw Hats through many adventures and battles, the ship’s final journey culminated in a Viking funeral that brought tears to the characters and the audience. The Going Merry’s farewell perfectly encapsulated One Piece’s ability to imbue even inanimate objects with deep emotional significance.

These best One Piece characters and their iconic moments have not only defined the series but have also deeply made impacts on the fans. It shows the masterful storytelling that makes One Piece anime truly special.