If you’re a fan of Eiichiro Oda’s iconic creation, One Piece, and have been following the latest developments in the world of anime, you’re in for a treat.
Netflix recently dropped the highly anticipated Monsters anime, and it’s already causing waves in the anime community. But what’s got fans buzzing even more is the revelation of a surprising connection between two beloved characters: Ryuma and Zoro.
According to Eiichiro Oda himself, the content of Monsters, including Ryuma’s character, is now part of the One Piece canon. But what exactly is this connection, and why is it so significant for fans of the series?
In the Monsters anime, we meet Ryuma, a formidable samurai known for his strength and bravery. According to Oda, he’s the same legendary swordsman seen in One Piece. Ryuma’s surname, Shimotsuki, reveals that Zoro is his direct descendant. They share the same birth month, November, and facial features like a scar over the left eye. In the post-credit scene, Zoro inherits Ryuma’s blade, Shusui, further solidifying their connection.
Explained: How Are Zoro and Ryuma Are Connected?
The Monsters anime introduces us to Ryuma, an unparalleled samurai known for his incredible strength and courage. He’s the kind of warrior who takes on dragons and legendary swordsmen without breaking a sweat.
But what’s fascinating is that Ryuma is not just a standalone character in this new tale; he’s intricately tied to the world of One Piece.
According to Oda, the Ryuma featured in Monsters is the same legendary swordsman we encounter in One Piece. To put it in Oda’s own words in SBS of Volume 47:
“The zombie Ryuma appears in Chapter 450 from this volume, and he is indeed the Ryuma who starred in ‘Monsters.’ In the world of One Piece, he’s a legendary swordsman who died of sickness.”
Now, here’s where it gets even more intriguing.
Ryuma’s surname, Shimotsuki, establishes a blood connection between him and Zoro. As it turns out, Zoro is the great-nephew of Shimotsuki Ushimaru, a direct descendant of Shimotsuki Ryuma himself.
So, yes, Ryuma and Zoro are family, albeit distantly related.
Their familial link explains the uncanny resemblance between the two swordsmen. If you’ve ever noticed the striking similarity in their facial structures and the peculiar scar over the left eye, it’s not a coincidence—it’s a family trait.
In terms of aesthetics, the only difference between the “Pirate Hunter” Zoro and the “Sword God” Ryuma is their hair color.
They share not just looks but also ambition and honor. Both aspire to be the world’s greatest swordsman. Zoro, known for his combat prowess and unwavering loyalty, serves as Monkey D. Luffy’s right-hand man and the Straw Hat crew’s first mate.
Oda adds another layer to their connection by assigning both Ryuma and Zoro the same birth month: November.
This isn’t a mere coincidence but a nod to their shared origin. In traditional Japanese, November is “Shimotsuki,” which is precisely the name of their clan.
However, Ryuma’s character underwent a retcon in the Monsters anime.
In the original one-shot manga, he wielded a normal sword, but the anime now depicts him wielding the Black Blade Shusui, permanently imbued with his Haki. This change suggests that Ryuma achieved this transformation before receiving his iconic scar.
As for Ryuma’s mysterious death from an unspecified disease, there are theories linking it to the Five Elders, immortal beings who may have attacked him using deadly diseases.
While these theories remain speculative, they add to the intrigue surrounding Ryuma’s character.
In a poignant post-credit scene, the anime showcases the moment when Ryuma acknowledges Zoro and entrusts him with Shusui.
This emotional connection between the two characters solidifies the link between Monsters and One Piece, emphasizing the passing of Ryuma’s legacy to Zoro.
With Zoro inheriting not just Shusui but also Ryuma’s ambition and honor, it’s clear that the “Pirate Hunter” is on a path to fulfill his ancestor’s legacy.
Monsters anime is streaming on Netflix.
What are your thoughts on this surprising connection between Ryuma and Zoro? How do you think it will impact the future of One Piece?
Let us know your theories and speculations in the comments below.
