The Wano arc of One Piece is grand and spectacular in every way, yet it has sparked significant controversy among fans with the revelation that Yamato will not join the Straw Hat Pirates. Although Yamato was introduced quite late in the saga of the raid on Onigashima, their quick acceptance into the cast has turned them into a beloved character, making them a prime candidate for the next Straw Hat crew member.
As a result, many fans were disappointed when Yamato rejected Luffy’s invitation to join the crew, instead opting to follow in Oden’s footsteps by traveling across the seas.
This journey of Yamato has been documented in the chapter cover story titled “Yamato’s Journey with the Oni Princess” from One Piece. The latest cover page further clarifies the reasons why Yamato cannot join the Straw Hats.
The cover story of chapter 1140 reveals Ulti and Page One currently residing in Wano, while Who’s Who and various other members of Kaido’s crew have established a base in Udon and can pose new threats to Wano. This demonstrates that the land of samurai still desperately needs a strong individual like Yamato to combat the looming dangers.

The Latest Cover Story of One Piece Confirms Wano Needs Yamato
Although not explicitly stated in chapter 1057, the reasons Yamato cannot join the Straw Hats are clear as of the day in One Piece, especially following the recent invasion of Wano by Admiral Ryokugyu just a few chapters prior. Kaido’s presence is not only a danger to other pirate crews but also to the World Government. As we exit, Wano has fallen into a state of chaos.
This is especially poignant considering that Momonosuke has recently assumed the position of shogun and the rebuilding of the country is still underway, not only in terms of its physical structure and infrastructure but also in terms of its political landscape.
Despite Momonosuke having support around him, a strong figure like Yamato is crucial in countering Wano’s threats during this sensitive time. The current cover story of One Piece is addressing this issue.
While the cover story may initially seem mundane, it has begun to highlight the ongoing struggles of Wano, including those who are missing and hiding in the shadows. Initially, in the cover story of chapter 1124, Yamato helped fend off a hunter attempting to capture a girl in the Kuri region.
The cover story of chapter 1125 continues to reveal the disappearance of Minatomo, while chapter 1126 depicts a girl from a soba shop in Kuri who has also gone missing.
Alongside these alarming events, Yamato’s cover story also follows what has transpired with many of Kaido’s subordinates like Holdem, who previously attempted to capture Otama once again in the cover story of chapter 1133.

Who’s Who Could Cause Significant Trouble in Wano’s Future in One Piece
The Wano arc of One Piece has concluded but has left unresolved issues such as the fates of Kaido and Big Mom’s subordinates. Alongside King, Queen, X Drake, Apoo, and Hawkins, the remaining members of the Tobi Roppo remain a mystery. The recent cover story of Yamato also provides fans a glimpse into the events surrounding this ongoing dilemma.
The cover story of chapter 1138 shows Who’s Who establishing a base in Udon, along with various subordinates of the Beast Pirates, while the latest chapter has revealed that Ulti and Page One have been captured.
Although these younger members are still under Kaido’s influence, they could potentially create havoc in Wano alongside Who’s Who if they decide to form an alliance. However, the presence of the Tobi Roppo only serves as a reminder that Wano is still in dire need of a protector like Yamato, especially during this current timeframe.
While King has the potential to become an ally of Luffy due to their shared history with Joyboy, it seems unlikely that a similar fate awaits Who’s Who, Page One, and Ulti. Nevertheless, it will be fascinating to see how Yamato’s cover story unfolds, as fans eagerly await the return of the One Piece anime in April.