Zoro vs. Lucci: A Long-Running Battle in One Piece

The battle between Zoro and Lucci has been ongoing for quite some time. It first began in Chapter 1091, which was released in Japan on September 4, 2023. Chapter 1110 is set to be released in Japan on March 18, 2024.
In the world of One Piece, the passage of time cannot be compared to the real world. While the fight between Zoro and Lucci may span several months in the real world, the events from Chapter 1091 to Chapter 1110 occur over a significantly shorter time frame within the One Piece universe.
However, many events have unfolded on Egghead Island since Lucci initiated his battle with Zoro. This includes Gear 5 Luffy losing his power after clashing with Admiral Kizaru in Chapter 1095, followed by Luffy regaining his abilities while assisting Bonney in Chapter 1105.
1. Zoro Strikes Back Against Lucci After Sanji’s Encouragement

In Chapter 1110, Jinbe notices that Zoro is still engaged in battle. Jinbe is ready to assist Zoro, even as he deals with his own struggles. However, upon hearing that Zoro is still fighting, Sanji remarks that Zoro is merely causing chaos. This encouragement from Sanji triggers something in Zoro, who then attacks Lucci with a new technique.
2. Lucci Attempts to Use Madara’s Shigan but Lacks Speed

Lucci attempts to use Madara’s Shigan technique to strike Zoro. However, he finds that he cannot deliver an effective attack quickly enough to hit Zoro. In reality, Lucci ends up being on the receiving end of Zoro’s powerful counterattacks. Despite his considerable speed, Lucci seems to be outmatched.
3. Zoro’s Santoryu: Kokoba Madara Gari Technique

Zoro utilizes his Santoryu technique, Kokoba Madara Gari, which translates to “Hell Killing Leopard.” This name reflects the ferocity of his attack, particularly as he targets Lucci, who has already demonstrated his Zoan transformation abilities. Zoro appears to have developed this technique specifically to combat Lucci.
4. Zoro Does Not Wear a Headband During the Fight

One clear sign that Roronoa Zoro is serious during a battle is when he wears a headband. The image above shows him in a previous fight against King, a formidable opponent. In his current fight with Lucci, Zoro is not wearing a headband, suggesting he is still holding back, despite the prolonged nature of their confrontation.
5. If Lucci Were to Lose…

Has Lucci lost to Zoro yet? Given Lucci’s Zoan abilities, it is hard to determine whether he has truly been defeated or not, especially since he has shown signs of significant injury. Nevertheless, Lucci has also recovered quite quickly after being hit by Gear 5 Luffy. This rapid recovery is a hallmark of Zoan-type abilities.
If Lucci truly recognizes his defeat, Zoro would be seen as a top-tier opponent in the Egghead battle. Moreover, if Lucci were to lose, it would imply that he cannot even land a blow on Zoro’s right arm. Since Chapter 1093, Lucci has repeatedly stated that he has been unable to handle the second round against Zoro’s arm.
6. In Chapter 349, Zoro Was Defeated by Lucci

In Chapter 349, during the Water 7 arc, Rob Lucci in his leopard form was able to handle Zoro and Luffy with ease. At that time, Lucci’s Tekkai made it impossible for Zoro to inflict any damage. Now, the tides have turned, and it appears that Zoro has grown significantly stronger since their last encounter.
Now, as the battle unfolds, Zoro is positioned to potentially overcome his previous defeat against Lucci, showcasing his growth and development as a fighter.