ONE PIECE and Fairy Tail are two of the most successful works on the Shonen scene. Despite being set in completely different contexts, some fans believe the two universes are somehow connected. The reason for this theory is the incredible similarity between Shanks and Gildarts.

At first glance, the designs of the two characters They look practically identical. They both have wavy red hair, beards, capes, and most importantly, both wear the marks of their fights on their bodies. Shanks lost his left arm to save Luffy's life, while Gildarts lost both limbs on his left side after an incredible fight.

In addition to the aesthetic similarities, the two characters share one pretty similar personality. Both are calm, but when it comes to fighting, they bring out their inner fire. Shanks and Gildarts are two leaders who are respected by everyone for their terrible strength. In addition, the two play the role of mentor for the protagonists of their respective franchises.

Given these similarities, some fans have speculated about the relationship between Eiichiro Oda and Hiro Mashima, the authors of ONE PIECE and Fairy Tail. According to conspiracy theories, Hiro Mashima shamelessly copies Oda's work. Gildarts actually debuted in 2009, while Shanks was featured in the 1997 chapter one of ONE PIECE.

The two mangakas have a pretty similar artistic style and that further detail would have convinced fans that the two are brothers or even brothers the same person. The latter theory, however, should be discarded, given the rigorous release programs to which the two are subjected.

Another rumor that has most likely surfaced on the internet suggests that Mashima was Oda's assistant, so all these similarities are nothing more than a tribute to his former mentor. However, the editor of Mashima denied this hypothesis, claiming that the creator of Fairy Tail never worked as an assistant for other mangakas. The publisher also revealed the truth behind all the similarities between Oda and Mashima: The two have always publicly stated that their source of inspiration is Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball. New details about ONE PIECE Live-Action have surfaced on Twitter. The Fire Festival reveals people's feelings in chapter 993 of ONE PIECE.

About the Author

Sweety Otaku

One of the best parts of watching anime is how many times a show can surprise you. Sometimes for good, sometimes for bad. But if the Otaku know one thing, it's that anything is possible.

View All Articles