The Egghead Island arc of One Piece is hurtling towards its climax, with allies of the Straw Hat Pirates fully engaged in thrilling battles. Amidst the chaos, Oda has subtly hinted at the possible introduction of the 10th and final member to the pirate crew. Although not yet confirmed, Oda's implications strongly suggest that this character could be the next to join Luffy's crew.
The Egghead Island arc of One Piece shook fans with its revelations about Bartholomew Kuma's true identity and his heroic act in saving the Straw Hat Pirates. Adding to the intrigue, it was disclosed that Jewelry Bonney, a notable member of the Worst Generation pirates, is Kuma's daughter. Following these revelations, it's conceivable that Eiichiro Oda is subtly indicating Jewelry Bonney as the 10th and final member of Luffy’s crew.
Since the outset of his journey towards becoming the Pirate King, Monkey D. Luffy has aimed to assemble a crew of ten members. Jinbei's acceptance solidified the position of the 9th member within the Straw Hat Pirates. As for the 10th and final member, the potential candidates are numerous, including figures like Vivi, Yamato, Momonosuke, Kin'emon, and certainly Bonney herself.
10th Member of the Straw Hat Pirates
Jewelry Bonney's early years were marred by the debilitating Sapphire Scale Disease, which afflicted her from childhood. In a desperate bid to find a cure, her father, Bartholomew Kuma, traversed the world and eventually struck a deal with Vegapunk, offering his body for experimentation to save his daughter's life. Upon learning of her father's sacrifice, Bonney embarked on a journey to find him at the tender age of ten.
On the island of Egghead, Bonney finally confronted Vegapunk, who revealed the truth behind her father's actions. To her astonishment, Bartholomew Kuma himself emerged on Egghead, ultimately coming to her rescue and providing closure to their tumultuous saga. The persistent threat to Jewelry Bonney's life presents a compelling case for her to join forces with the Straw Hat Pirates.
In Chapter 1108 of One Piece, Oda appears to solidify the notion that Bonney must join the Straw Hat Pirates for her own protection. It's evident that she is a significant target for the World Government, emphasizing the necessity for her to align herself with Luffy's crew. Luffy might want to protect Jewelry Bonney, especially since she's only 12 years old and facing dangers. Her fascination with the Sun God Nika, after encounter with him could inspire her to join the Emperor's Crew willingly.
The urgency for Jewelry Bonney to join forces with the Straw Hat Pirates is primarily driven by her control over all Pacifista units worldwide. Vegapunk's design ensures that any Pacifista units resembling Bartholomew Kuma fall under her command. This places her at the forefront of the World Government's interest and underscores the importance of her seeking refuge within Luffy's crew for her own safety. Vegapunk also wanted Luffy to take in Jewelry Bonney because she could help them escape the deadly island they're on.
While Oda hasn't officially depicted Bonney joining the Sunny as the 10th Straw Hat Pirate, nothing can be confirmed until he does. Among the many potential candidates, Bonney emerges as the strongest contender. Her powers, reminiscent of Luffy's, her poignant past, and her potential for growth position her as an ideal fit for the crew. Fans hope to see Bonney become a member of the Straw Hats in the near future, given her perfect alignment with the crew's dynamics and potential for incredible character development.