Can the strongest swordsman of One Piece, Mihawk, expand his title beyond his own universe and win against other formidable opponents?
SUMMARY
Currently, Mihawk is known as the strongest swordsman in One Piece.
His accurate precision, calm demeanor coupled with his excellent power of his black sword, Yoru, makes him a fearsome opponent.
However, does his status hold the same value in other anime universes such as Bleach and Berserk?
Within the One Piece universe, Dracule Mihawk’s unparalleled skills, immense power, and sharp intuition make him a near-unbeatable force. While many characters wield swords in the One Piece world, Mihawk’s abilities stand leagues above the rest, making it clear why Zoro Roronoa aims to claim his title, even though he is far from achieving that feat as of now.
Dracule Mihawk wielding Yoru in One Piece | Credit: Toei Animation
However, how would Mihawk fare if he stepped outside the world of One Piece and faced legendary swordsmen from other universes, like Ichigo Kurosaki from Bleach or Guts with the Berserker Armor from Berserk? Let’s delve into these hypothetical matchups, comparing their power dynamics and potential outcomes!
Dracule Mihawk: The greatest swordsman in One Piece
In One Piece, Dracule Mihawk’s moniker as the “Strongest Swordsman in the World” is well-earned. He can control his strikes with surgical precision, evidenced by his ability to playfully duel Zoro during their first encounter while using a tiny dagger. However, his black blade, Yoru, is one of the 12 Supreme Grade Swords, capable of devastating destruction when wielded by someone of Mihawk’s caliber.
Moreover, his presence alone demands respect. Even someone like Shanks; a Yonko and former rival, acknowledges Mihawk’s strength. With such a resume, Mihawk would be considered a formidable opponent in any anime universe. Yet, when pitted against equally iconic swordsmen from other series, his strength might get tested.
Ichigo’s Vasto Lorde form | Credit: Studio Pierrot
In this context, the first person that comes to mind is Ichigo Kurosaki from Bleach. Ichigo’s strength evolves significantly throughout Bleach, with multiple transformations and power-ups defining his journey. Some of his forms that might stack up against Mihawk are Shikai Ichigo, Bankai Ichigo (Tensa Zangetsu), his Vasto Lorde form, the final Getsuga Tenshou, and many more.
Another tough opponent for Mihawk would be Guts with Berserker Armor from Berserk. With the Armor, his physical limits are removed, allowing him to fight with inhuman speed, strength, and endurance. However, the armor comes at a cost, often pushing Guts to the brink of insanity and ignoring his body’s limits, leading to severe injuries.
Comparing Ichigo and Guts to Dracule Mihawk: Who stands tall?
Mihawk’s biggest advantage against Ichigo lies in his unmatched technique and precision. While Ichigo relies heavily on brute force and speed, Mihawk’s experience and mastery of the blade would allow him to exploit any openings. However, in forms like Vasto Lorde or Final Getsuga Tenshou, Ichigo’s sheer power might somewhat overwhelm even Mihawk’s defenses.
Guts from Berserk | Credit: Viz Media
On the other hand, Guts is a relentless fighter who overwhelms his enemies with raw strength and ferocity. His fighting style is chaotic and unrefined compared to Mihawk’s, but it is devastatingly effective. The battle between Mihawk and Guts would hinge on whether Mihawk could outlast the Berserker Armor’s relentless onslaught. Guts’ raw power and unpredictability might initially give him an edge, but Mihawk’s precision and composure could allow him to exploit Guts’ lack of control and end the fight decisively.
To sum it up, Mihawk’s mastery of the sword and ability to remain composed in the face of overwhelming power makes him a formidable opponent, even when facing legendary swordsmen from other anime worlds. While the battles would be close, Mihawk’s skill and precision would likely secure his status as the strongest swordsman, regardless of the universe.
