Why Blackbeard Hasn't Confronted Other Yonkos Yet in One Piece

Marshall D. Teach, better known as Blackbeard, is one of the most enigmatic and dangerous figures in One Piece. As the only person known to wield two Devil Fruits, his rise from obscurity to Yonko status has been nothing short of meteoric. However, despite his immense power and ambition to become the Pirate King, Blackbeard has strategically avoided direct confrontations with other Yonkos.

This article explores why Blackbeard is taking a calculated approach, his long-term strategy, and what this means for the future of One Piece.

Blackbeard’s Long-Term Strategy: Playing the Long Game

Unlike other pirates who openly challenge the world's strongest, Blackbeard has always been a tactician, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. His slow yet methodical rise to power is proof that he prioritizes strategy over brute force.

1. Two Decades on Whitebeard’s Crew – Waiting for the Right Devil Fruit

Blackbeard spent decades aboard Whitebeard’s ship as a seemingly unremarkable member. He remained unnoticed, concealing his true intentions while searching for one specific Devil Fruit: the Yami Yami no Mi. He understood its unique properties and waited patiently for the moment it would fall into his hands.

This level of patience and cunning is rare among pirates. Rather than challenging Whitebeard outright or searching desperately for power, he stayed hidden within one of the strongest pirate crews until he got what he wanted.

2. Using the World Government to His Advantage

Blackbeard's first major move wasn’t to attack a Yonko but to manipulate the World Government. After killing Thatch and claiming the Yami Yami no Mi, he set his sights on the title of Shichibukai. Instead of gaining power through sheer conquest, he used the government's own system against them.

He first attempted to capture Luffy but ended up defeating Ace instead, handing him over to the Marines to secure his place as a Warlord. This allowed him access to Impel Down, where he recruited some of the most dangerous criminals in history. This move alone skyrocketed his strength, preparing him for the battles ahead.

3. Expanding His Territory and Power Post-Time Skip

After the time skip, Blackbeard didn't rush to attack the other Yonkos. Instead, he consolidated his power by taking over territories previously under Whitebeard’s protection. The Payback War against the remnants of Whitebeard's crew was his way of eliminating threats while asserting dominance in the New World.

Additionally, he actively sought powerful Devil Fruits, showing that he values strong abilities over reckless engagements. His attack on Baltigo, the base of the Revolutionary Army, further solidified his ambition and influence.

Blackbeard’s Strength: A Growing Powerhouse

1. Mastery Over Two Devil Fruits

Blackbeard is the only known person in One Piece history to wield two Devil Fruits. The Yami Yami no Mi grants him the ability to nullify other Devil Fruit users' powers, while the Gura Gura no Mi, formerly belonging to Whitebeard, makes him one of the most destructive forces in the world.

Having spent decades watching Whitebeard use the Gura Gura no Mi, Blackbeard has likely mastered its abilities, making him an even bigger threat. His durability and immense physical strength also make him a nearly unstoppable force in battle.

2. The Strength of His Crew

Blackbeard’s crew, the Ten Titanic Captains, consists of some of the most notorious individuals in One Piece. Many of them were recruited from Impel Down, making them among the strongest criminals in the world. Unlike the scattered remnants of Whitebeard’s crew, Blackbeard’s forces are highly organized and growing in strength.

His commanders are not just powerful; they are also strategically chosen, covering various strengths, from brute force to intelligence. This level of preparation makes them formidable opponents for any Yonko crew.

Why Hasn’t Blackbeard Attacked the Other Yonkos Yet?

1. Timing and Readiness

Blackbeard is smart. He understands that even though he has gained incredible power, taking on the likes of Shanks, Big Mom (formerly), or Kaido (before his defeat) required careful planning.

Unlike Luffy, who challenges powerful enemies head-on, Blackbeard ensures that he is fully prepared before making a move. If he hasn’t attacked a Yonko yet, it’s because he knows he isn’t ready—or he is waiting for the right opportunity.

2. Eliminating Weaknesses and Securing More Power

Blackbeard's approach has been to grow his influence and eliminate weaker enemies before engaging in direct battles. Taking over Whitebeard’s territories and securing rare Devil Fruits are all part of his plan. He is setting the stage for a much bigger confrontation.

Additionally, if the theory of his connection to Rocks D. Xebec is true, he may be following in the footsteps of one of history’s most dangerous pirates. Rocks was known for attacking the Celestial Dragons and challenging the world’s strongest. Blackbeard may be preparing to replicate his predecessor’s grand plan.

3. Avoiding Unnecessary Risks

Engaging other Yonkos too soon could jeopardize everything he has built. Blackbeard understands that wars of attrition weaken both sides, allowing opportunists to take advantage. If he were to fight a Yonko now, the World Government or another pirate group could swoop in to destroy his forces while he is vulnerable.

Instead, he is playing the long game, striking when his enemies are at their weakest. This is evident in how he waited until Whitebeard was severely weakened during the Marineford War before making his move.

What’s Next for Blackbeard? The Future of One Piece

Blackbeard is undoubtedly one of the final antagonists of One Piece. His story arc is far from over, and his eventual confrontation with Luffy is inevitable. But before that happens, we may see him take down another major figure in the pirate world.

Here’s what could happen next:

1. Blackbeard vs. Shanks – Many believe that Shanks will be Blackbeard’s next major opponent. Given their history and how Blackbeard scarred Shanks in the past, this battle seems inevitable. If Blackbeard takes down Shanks, it will solidify him as the most dangerous pirate in the world.

2. Blackbeard vs. the World Government – With his growing influence, Blackbeard may soon clash with the Marines or even the Five Elders. If he truly wants to become the Pirate King, he will have to face the world’s strongest forces head-on.

3. A Final Confrontation with Luffy – Luffy and Blackbeard represent two opposing philosophies of piracy. Luffy embodies freedom, while Blackbeard represents ruthless ambition. Their final battle could be the defining moment of One Piece.

Conclusion: Blackbeard is Playing the Smartest Game

Blackbeard isn’t avoiding confrontation out of fear; he is simply playing the smartest game in One Piece. Unlike other Yonkos who assert their dominance through immediate power, Blackbeard is carefully plotting his rise to the top. His patience, intelligence, and strategic planning make him one of the most dangerous characters in the series.

When he finally does make his move, the world of One Piece will never be the same. One thing is certain: Blackbeard is coming, and he will have something grand to show when he does.