Eiichiro Oda’s hit pirate series, One Piece, has received plaudits since its release in 1999. The series has been praised for its amazing story and lovable characters, who steal the hearts of fans every time they are shown. Among the many positives in the series, the hierarchy system has always been a strong talking point, whether among the marines or pirates.
While the captains are usually the strongest in their crew, they would be nothing without their faithful vice-captains. These Vice Captains play a significant part in the series as they are often the second strongest right after their captain. They are also tasked with dealing with problems if the captain is unavailable. In that regard, the strongest vice-captains in One Piece are here.
Marco
Marco is the first division commander of the White Beard pirates and White Beard’s right-hand man. He possesses the Tori Tori no Mi, a Model Phoenix capable of transforming him into a phoenix and healing any injury, making him one of the strongest people in One Piece.
His regenerative abilities and massive strength have allowed him to hold his own against formidable fighters like Big Mom and King. Marco has also earned the respect of emperors like Shanks, who have invited him to join his crew on numerous occasions. Even the world government considered him a prime target to replace White Beard as emperor.
King
He is the Vice Captain of the Beast Man Pirates and Kaido’s most loyal subordinate. After Kaido witnessed his strength, he called him King, telling him to be proud of his new title.
King is the last remaining member of the Lunarian race, giving him mastery of flames. Due to his lunarian lineage, King is strong enough to survive in any harsh environment. He also possesses the Ryu Ryu no Mi, Model: Pteranodon, allowing him to change into a pteranodon.
Zoro
Among the numerous vice captains on this list, none have stolen the show quite like Roronoa Zoro. Zoro’s sword skill and advanced mastery of conqueror’s haki have made him a force to be reckoned with. He aims to surpass Dracule Mihawk, the world’s greatest swordsman, a goal that may not be as far off for him as it was before.
He fought alongside Luffy as they confronted Big Mom and Kaido and could also wound the latter. With each fight, Zoro seems stronger, even holding his own against one of the five elders.
Shiryu
As one of Blackbeard’s ten Titanic captains and the captain of the second ship, Shiryu is a force to be reckoned with. He was originally introduced as an ex-jailer in Impel Down who had been imprisoned for his violent tendencies. After Teach raided Impel down, Magellan requested his help but was betrayed by him, so he chose to join Blackbeard.
Shiryu is a master swordsman and combined with the clear-clear fruit. He is a lethal assassin. Although little is known about his fighting style, many have teased him as Roronoa Zoro’s opponent. He is regarded as the strongest after Teach, but the addition of Aokiji has raised many eyebrows.
Silvers Rayleigh
The Dark King is a legendary figure in One Piece, having served under the banner of pirate King Gol D Roger. As Roger’s right-hand man, his strength was nothing to scuff at, earning him the respect of everyone in the series. His mastery over haki and his sword skills make him a terror to face off against. His mere presence was enough to make Blackbeard retreat from Amazon Lily.