In the One Piece universe, First Commanders are the unwavering and formidable right-hand figures to their captains. These powerful pirate leaders and organization heads engage in intense battles for dominance on the open waters. While the success of these groups primarily hinges on their captains, trustworthy and skillful individuals are also crucial.
Each significant group or team in One Piece has a deputy leader, including the Yonko crews and entities like the Revolutionary Army. Over time, fans have been introduced to numerous influential First Commanders, but their levels of power and skill are not uniform. Here, we rank the top 9 First Commanders in the One Piece universe.
9. Bepo
As Law’s most formidable subordinate, Bepo possesses unmatched strength. Recently, fans witnessed a display of his abilities on Winner Island, where Law faced off against Blackbeard. With Chopper’s help, Bepo activated his Sulong form during daylight hours, striking Yonko Blackbeard and Burgess simultaneously and taking them down. While he may not be the strongest First Commander, Bepo’s prowess is commendable.
8. King
Also known as King the Wildfire, Alber is one of Yonko Kaido’s top three lieutenants and his closest ally. A member of the rare Lunarian race, King possesses unique abilities that few in the One Piece universe can match. In Wano, he faced Zoro in battle, pushing him to his limits.
7. Katakuri
As the most powerful of the Big Mom Pirates’ Three Sweet Commanders, Katakuri boasts a staggering bounty of 1.057 billion berries. His exceptional Haki, formidable Devil Fruit, and unique ability to foresee the future make him a reliable and formidable pirate, despite not being a captain.
6. Zoro
As the Straw Hat Pirates’ second-in-command, Zoro aims to surpass Mihawk someday. Wielding a three-sword style, Zoro’s strength has grown exponentially. In Wano, he vanquished King the Wildfire and earned a bounty of 1.111 billion berries as a result.
5. Shiryu
As the captain for the Blackbeard Pirates’ Second Ship, Shiryu holds a formidable position. An expert swordsman and likely proficient in Haki, Shiryu possesses the power of invisibility. Though his true capabilities have yet to be revealed, he will undoubtedly become a formidable First Commander.
4. Marco
Previously serving as Whitebeard’s trusted lieutenant, Marco is an incredibly threatening pirate. With remarkable stamina and the capacity to heal from any injury, Marco fought against all three Admirals during the Marineford war. In Wano, he battled King and Queen, briefly clashing with Big Mom and earning her admiration.
3. Ben Beckman
As Shanks’ right-hand man and Vice Captain of the Red Hair Pirates, Ben Beckman is a dependable and intelligent character. Boasting impressive intellect and extraordinary combat skills, Beckman is considered a high-ranking Commander due to the Red Hair Pirates being the most balanced crew among the Yonko.
2. Sabo
Serving as the Revolutionary Army’s Chief of Staff and Monkey D. Dragon’s second-in-command, Sabo has built a stellar reputation. Known as the Flame Emperor, Sabo’s infamy exceeds even Dragon’s, as he is revered as a deity worldwide.
1. Rayleigh
As one of One Piece’s legendary pirates, Rayleigh served as Gol D. Roger’s right-hand man and the Roger Pirates’ First Mate. Referred to as the Dark King, Rayleigh was feared by many in the One Piece universe. A master of all three Haki types, Rayleigh was an extraordinarily difficult opponent to defeat in battle during his prime.
