Updated on May 27, 11:32 a.m. (GMT+8): Improved relevancy.

Netflix released an anime called Monsters: 103 Mercies Dragon Damnation this year, supervised by its creator himself, Eiichiro Oda.

Excitement peaked as the acclaimed manga artist confirmed a surprising connection between Monsters and his more famous work, One Piece.

One Piece Straw Hat Pirates members Monkey D. Luffy, Roronoa Zoro, Nami, Usopp, Vinsmoke Sanji, Tony Tony Chopper, Nico Robin, Franky, Brook, Jinbe in ONE Esports featured image for article "One Piece watch order: How to watch the anime, movies, and OVAs in chronological order"
Credit: Toei Animation
One Piece watch order: How to watch the anime, movies, and OVAs in chronological order

Monsters: 103 Mercies Dragon Damnation takes viewers on a journey with the protagonist Ryuma, a skilled swordsman, as he encounters a young waitress whose hometown was attacked by a dragon.

Though it appeared to be a standalone series, fans quickly speculated about its potential ties to the One Piece universe, given Oda’s involvement and Netflix’s commitment to the franchise.

Eiichiro Oda reveals connection between Netflix’s Monsters and One Piece

Ryuma as introduced by Eiichiro Oda in Monsters
Screenshot by Ron Muyot/ONE Esports

The revelation came in the form of an SBS, or Shitsumon o Boshū Suru (meaning “I’m Taking Questions”) segment in Volume 47 of the One Piece manga. SBS is a section where Oda answers fans’ questions and provides additional information about the series.

All One Piece arcs: From Romance Dawn to Egghead

A fan inquired about the connection between Ryuma, the swordsman introduced during the Thriller Bark arc, and the Ryuma from Oda’s Monsters manga.

To fans’ delight, Oda confirmed that both Ryumas were indeed the same character, establishing his earlier work as a canonical part of the One Piece universe.

One Piece characters Monkey D. Luffy, Eustass Kid, and Trafalgar Law in ONE Esports in featured image for article "Who has the highest bounty in the One Piece universe?"
Credit: Eiichiro Oda, ONE Esports
Who has the highest bounty in the One Piece universe?

While Monsters showcases Ryuma’s adventures during his prime, One Piece fans have long been acquainted with the legendary swordsman.

Ryuma hails from Wano’s esteemed Shimotsuki clan and earned the moniker “Sword God” for his unparalleled skills.

In recent arcs, One Piece even unveiled Ryuma’s distant relation to the Straw Hat crew’s swordsman, Roronoa Zoro, adding another layer of depth to his character.

TAMASHII NATIONS - A Netflix Series: One Piece - Roronoa Zoro, Bandai Spirits S.H.Figuarts Action Figure From the globally streaming live action Netflix drama "A Netflix Series: ONE PIECE" Roronoa Zoro joins S.H.Figuarts! Digital coloring and expressive sculpting capture the hero's appearance, while numerous options and dynamic posing let you re-create your favorite scenes Stands approximately 5.7" tall [Set Contents] Main Body, Optional head, Sword holster, Two pairs of optional hands, Three sword holster hilts and scabbards, Two swords for holding, Optional head with sword Only product with affixed official Bandai Namco label has been thoroughly tested for safety and meets all North American consumer product safety regulations and entitles the purchaser to product support assistance
Credit: Tamashii Nations
VIEW PRICE: TAMASHII NATIONS – A Netflix Series: One Piece – Roronoa Zoro, Bandai Spirits S.H.Figuarts Action Figure

Monsters, therefore, serves as a valuable piece in the puzzle of Ryuma’s life, offering fans a glimpse into the past of this iconic figure.

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