Why Aokiji Joined
One of the most shocking developments in the post-timeskip era of One Piece was the revelation that Kuzan, formerly known as Admiral Aokiji, had joined the Blackbeard Pirates. After his grueling ten-day duel with Akainu on Punk Hazard for the position of Fleet Admiral, Kuzan left the Marines, disillusioned with the direction of the World Government under Sakazuki’s "Absolute Justice." For a long time, his whereabouts were unknown until it was confirmed that he had aligned himself with Marshall D. Teach. This alliance sparked immediate speculation regarding a potential Aokiji betrayal, as his calm and moral nature seems to contrast sharply with the chaotic villainy of the Blackbeard crew.
Kuzan explained his decision by stating that being a pirate allows him a certain level of freedom that he never possessed as a Marine. He argued that "the blackest of black" can sometimes see things that those blinded by "justice" cannot. However, the One Piece community remains skeptical. Many believe that his joining was not a matter of shared goals, but rather a strategic move to monitor the most dangerous man on the sea. The question of whether Aokiji Blackbeard is a permanent alliance or a temporary convenience remains at the heart of the series' current mysteries.
SWORD Connection
The introduction of SWORD, the secret "Marine Force" consisting of officers who have technically resigned their commissions to act with autonomy, added a massive layer to the Kuzan spy theory. Members of SWORD, like Koby and X Drake, can engage Yonko and make decisions without the World Government taking responsibility for their actions. This led many fans to believe that Kuzan might be the true leader or a high-ranking operative of SWORD, operating deep undercover within the Blackbeard Pirates.
If Kuzan is indeed part of SWORD, his "resignation" after the fight with Akainu could have been the perfect cover story to infiltrate the upper echelons of the pirate world. Given his history with Garp and his personal brand of "Lazy Justice," it is highly plausible that he is working toward a goal that benefits the world at large rather than Teach’s dream of total domination. This connection provides a logical framework for an eventual Aokiji betrayal that would serve the greater good.
Evidence of Loyalty
Despite the theories, there is some evidence suggesting Kuzan might actually be loyal—or at least fully committed—to his role. During his time with the crew, he has participated in several high-stakes operations. Most notably, he helped kidnap Pudding from Whole Cake Island to assist Teach in deciphering Poneglyphs. His interactions with the Titanic Captains also show a level of camaraderie, or at least mutual respect based on power.
Kuzan has noted that the Blackbeard Pirates are not a group bound by brotherly love, but rather a group of individuals with aligned interests. By this logic, as long as Teach provides him with the resources or information he seeks, he has no reason to leave. This pragmatic approach to piracy makes the Aokiji Blackbeard alliance feel more grounded in the reality of the New World, even if it feels "wrong" to the fans who view him as a hero.
Evidence of Spying
The evidence supporting the Kuzan spy theory is compelling. Throughout his career, Kuzan has shown a tendency to let enemies go if he believes it serves a moral purpose, such as letting Nico Robin escape Ohara and later letting the Straw Hats go at Long Ring Long Land. His moral compass has always been his defining trait. It is difficult for fans to believe that the man who spared Robin would truly support a man like Blackbeard, who brings nothing but destruction.
Furthermore, his conversations with Smoker on Punk Hazard suggested he "remains the same person" despite his change in status. He urged Smoker to have the Marines keep an eye on Doflamingo, indicating he was still looking out for the stability of the world. This secretiveness and continued interest in global affairs strongly suggest that he is gathering intel on Blackbeard’s ultimate plans, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
Hachinosu Incident
The recent events on Hachinosu, the Pirate Island, brought the Aokiji betrayal discussion to a boiling point. Kuzan was forced to confront his former mentor, Monkey D. Garp. The battle was emotional and devastating, ending with Kuzan seemingly piercing Garp with an ice blade. While some see this as proof of his total descent into villainy, others see it as a calculated move.
During the fight, Kuzan appeared conflicted, and many theorists noted that his "ice blade" might have actually stabilized Garp’s wounds or put him in a state of suspended animation to prevent the other Titanic Captains from killing him outright. By "defeating" Garp, Kuzan secured his position within Blackbeard’s inner circle while potentially saving his mentor’s life. This incident serves as the ultimate litmus test for his true allegiance.
FAQ
Is Kuzan a member of SWORD?
While not officially confirmed, many fans believe he is either a member or an ally of SWORD due to his close ties with Garp and his departure from the main Marine branch.
Why did Aokiji join Blackbeard?
Kuzan claims he joined to seek a different kind of freedom, but most theories suggest he is an undercover agent or has his own hidden agenda regarding the "will of D" or the true history.
Will Kuzan help Luffy in the final war?
Given his history with Robin and his respect for Garp, it is highly likely that if an Aokiji betrayal occurs, it will lead him to align with the Straw Hat Grand Fleet against Blackbeard or the World Government.
