Sakazuki (Akainu)
Sakazuki (Akainu) |
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Kanji | サカズキ |
Romaji | Sakazuki |
Age: | 55 (after timeskip) |
Birthday: | August 16th |
Height: | 306 cm (10’) |
Voice Actor | |
Japanese: | Fumihiko Tachiki |
English: | Andrew Love |
Sakazuki (Akainu), formerly known by his Admiral alias Akainu, is the current Fleet Admiral of the Marines, having succeeded Sengoku. During the first half of the series, he served as one of the three Admirals and was the last of them to debut. Known for his strict adherence to Absolute Justice, Sakazuki has become one of the most influential and controversial figures in the Marine hierarchy. Following his promotion to Fleet Admiral, he relocated Marine Headquarters into the New World to prepare for the challenges of the New Pirate Age.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Sakazuki’s early career in the Marines remains largely unexplored, but he quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the Admirals, showcasing his unmatched discipline and relentless enforcement of justice. During his time as an Admiral, he was introduced as a staunch advocate of Absolute Justice, a philosophy that prioritizes eliminating all threats to the Marine order at any cost, including collateral damage to innocents. This uncompromising stance set him apart from other Admirals and eventually led to his clash with Aokiji over the Fleet Admiral position after Sengoku stepped down.
The duel between Sakazuki and Aokiji on Punk Hazard lasted ten days, resulting in Aokiji’s resignation and Sakazuki’s promotion to Fleet Admiral. His first major decision as Fleet Admiral was to move Marine Headquarters into the New World, reflecting his proactive and aggressive approach to dealing with pirates in the post-Marineford era.
Appearance
Sakazuki is a tall, muscular man with sharp features that emphasize his intimidating presence. He often wears a Marine coat draped over his shoulders, along with a suit and a red rose-patterned shirt that adds to his fiery persona. His stern expression and square jawline reflect his no-nonsense attitude. His signature hat and gloves complement his militaristic and commanding appearance.
Personality
Sakazuki is a staunch and ruthless believer in Absolute Justice, willing to go to any lengths to uphold Marine order. His extremist views make him one of the most feared figures in the series, as he does not hesitate to prioritize the mission over human lives. This unwavering dedication to justice often puts him at odds with more morally flexible characters, such as Aokiji and Sengoku. While his methods are harsh, Sakazuki’s determination and commitment to the Marine cause are unquestionable.
Role in the Story
Introduction and Marineford Arc
Sakazuki first played a major role during the Marineford War, where his unwavering pursuit of justice and his lethal powers made him a central antagonist. His actions during the war, including executing Portgas D. Ace and wounding Monkey D. Luffy, cemented his status as one of the most feared individuals in the series.
Promotion to Fleet Admiral
Following the Summit War, Sakazuki dueled Aokiji for the position of Fleet Admiral, emerging victorious after a grueling ten-day battle on Punk Hazard. As Fleet Admiral, Sakazuki’s leadership marked a more aggressive and militaristic direction for the Marines, with a focus on combating the growing threat of piracy in the New World.
Final Saga
Sakazuki’s role as Fleet Admiral positions him as a key antagonist in the Final Saga, where his pursuit of Absolute Justice continues to drive major conflicts. His decisions and policies place him at odds with both the pirates and some of his own subordinates.
Relationships
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Aokiji (Kuzan)
Sakazuki’s staunchest rival within the Marines, their ideological clash over justice culminated in a duel for the Fleet Admiral position. Aokiji’s resignation following his defeat further highlighted the divide between their philosophies. -
Sengoku
Sakazuki succeeded Sengoku as Fleet Admiral, though his extremist approach contrasts sharply with Sengoku’s more balanced leadership style. -
Monkey D. Luffy
As the man responsible for Ace’s death and Luffy’s near-fatal injuries, Sakazuki is one of Luffy’s most personal enemies. -
Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard)
While not directly allied, Blackbeard’s rise to power during the Marineford Arc made him a significant adversary of Sakazuki’s mission to maintain order.