The Straw Hat Pirates’ harrowing journey through the Egghead Arc reaches a monumental climax with the release of One Piece Episode 1144, titled “The Worst Nightmare – The Five Elders Come Together.” This highly anticipated episode, which aired on September 21, 2025, marks a pivotal moment, as the formidable Five Elders make their full entrance onto the battlefield, showcasing their monstrous forms and overwhelming power for the first time in the anime’s history.
Release Date and Streaming Information
One Piece Episode 1144 was officially released on September 21, 2025. Fans can stream the episode with Japanese audio and English subtitles on Crunchyroll, with various regional release times. Netflix also offers the episode in certain regions, typically a week behind Crunchyroll.
The Cataclysmic Arrival of the Five Elders
The central focus of Episode 1144 is the dramatic arrival of the remaining members of the Gorosei (Five Elders) on Egghead Island. Following Saint Jaygarcia Saturn’s struggle against Luffy’s Gear 5, he initiated a summoning that brought the other four Elders—Marcus Mars, Topman Warcury, Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro, and Shepherd Ju Peter—to the island. Their terrifying introduction, featuring black lightning and pentagrams, signals a new level of threat for the Straw Hat Pirates.
This episode finally unveils the demonic Devil Fruit forms of these enigmatic figures, a reveal that has been one of the most debated topics within the One Piece community. Their immense power and horrific Haki cause even seasoned fighters like Zoro and Rob Lucci to recoil, emphasizing the unprecedented challenge they pose to Luffy and his allies.
The Ongoing Conflict on Egghead Island
Beyond the Gorosei’s arrival, the battle for Egghead Island continues to rage on multiple fronts:
Luffy’s Gear 5 vs. Kizaru and Saturn
Monkey D. Luffy, utilizing his powerful Gear 5 transformation, has been actively fending off both Admiral Kizaru and Saint Jaygarcia Saturn. In the preceding moments, Luffy managed to throw both formidable opponents away, temporarily neutralizing Kizaru and forcing Saturn to return to the island, leading to the summoning of his fellow Elders.
Zoro and Lucci’s Intense Showdown
The long-running battle between Roronoa Zoro and Rob Lucci is expected to intensify further in Episode 1144. Both are highly skilled fighters with powerful Haki and Awakened Devil Fruits (in Lucci’s case), making their clash a highlight of the arc. The episode promises to showcase their lethal fighting styles with exceptional animation.
Vegapunk’s Worldwide Broadcast
Dr. Vegapunk’s attempt to transmit a message of truth across the world continues to be a critical plot point. This broadcast has put the World Government in a precarious position, and the Elders’ concern over its implications is a driving force behind their decisive actions on Egghead.
The Return of the Giant Warrior Pirates
Adding to the chaos and potential for a massive power shift, the episode also teases the reappearance of Dorry and Brogy, the legendary giants from Little Garden. Their arrival on Egghead to assist Luffy and his crew represents a significant boost for the Straw Hats and offers a nostalgic callback for long-time fans.
Animation Quality and Impact
One Piece Episode 1144 has garnered significant attention for its exceptional animation, with acclaimed talents like Vincent Chansard contributing to its production. Even former One Piece animator Henry Thurlow expressed regret at not being involved in animating this particular episode, highlighting the anticipated visual spectacle of Luffy confronting the Gorosei. The episode is hailed as one of the most spectacular in shonen anime history, effectively raising the stakes and solidifying the Egghead Arc as a crucial turning point in the series’ final saga. It adeptly showcases the “nightmarish nature” of the World Government’s highest council, presenting a challenge far exceeding any the Straw Hats have faced previously.