'A man's dream never dies,' perhaps one of the most profound lines in One Piece uttered by Blackbeard. Will 2022 mark the clash between this antagonist and Luffy?
If there's one character dubbed as the most impressive 'antagonist' in One Piece history, it's undoubtedly Blackbeard. From personality to aspirations, Blackbeard stands as Luffy's worthy adversary. What sets him apart, however, is Blackbeard's willingness to betray, scheme, and forsake morals to achieve his desires.
Yet, for many readers, this is what endears them to Blackbeard, as he embodies the true essence of a pirate surviving in a perilous world. It's been a while since Blackbeard last made an appearance in One Piece. Hence, many fans anticipate that in 2022, Blackbeard will have a more prominent role in Wano, a place shrouded in secrets about the One Piece treasure, which Blackbeard seeks.

With the current storyline, the battle between Kaido, the Beast Pirates, and the Straw Hat-Law alliance will dominate much of 2022. Many readers predict that Wano will witness the reunion of all four Emperors for the first time. Currently, Big Mom and Kaido are present, and Blackbeard, along with Luffy's mysterious mentor, Red-Haired Shanks, also have their reasons to appear in Wano. Thus, after years of absence following the clash at Marineford, Blackbeard will have more screen time and make a comeback in the latter part of the Wano arc in One Piece.

If they manage to defeat Kaido, we are also eager to see if Luffy's strength is sufficient to stop the monstrous Blackbeard, who possesses two of the most destructive and iconic Devil Fruits in One Piece at the current moment. Of course, the rivalry between Luffy and Blackbeard cannot be resolved in Wano, and we'll have to wait for the conclusion of One Piece to witness the clash between these two characters who share the dream and power to become the Pirate King.

In general, Oda always knows how to create characters that don't need much screen time but still leave a lasting impression on readers. Blackbeard is a prime example of this. In One Piece in 2022, will the most impressive villain have a role in Wano or not? Share your thoughts on this matter!
