The Elbaf arc of One Piece has revealed many important details for fans of the series, particularly concerning a frighteningly powerful character. Notably, it marks the beginning of a storyline that still has many elements to unfold, including strong displays of strength that are truly astonishing.
However, there are also elements that Oda has introduced in One Piece that will play a significant role here.
The Power of Imu and the Threat from the World Government and the Marines
Fans are well aware that the World Government serves as the main antagonist in the Elbaf arc of One Piece, with the goal of completely annihilating those who oppose them. This indicates that a large-scale battle will take place here, and only one side can claim victory.

Of course, the Marines cannot afford to lose; this means that the World Government must face a fierce counterattack in one way or another. Along with this, Oda will also emphasize significantly on the threat posed by Imu and the World Government.
The key to defeating the World Government is still not fully revealed, at least not entirely. The only character that fans have seen capable of resisting this threat is Emet, the inheritor of Joy Boy’s Haki. There are clear indications that Haki could be a means to counter the threat, especially if used at a high level.
However, to be able to counter the threat goes beyond just Haki, and the response lies in a unique devil fruit that the fans have previously seen, Soru Soru no Mi.
Why the power of the Soru Soru no Mi is a perfect counter to Imu’s threat?
Chapter 1147 of One Piece has revealed a significant hint regarding the key points of the World Government that does not involve Haki. Certainly, high-level Conqueror’s Haki can potentially counter the threat, but not all members of the Marines are capable of wielding it. In practice, those who possess it may not even participate in a battle. Therefore, it is clear that another way to cause harm to the World Government exists, specifically the ability to manipulate souls.

This conclusion is quite logical, as Imu is the source of the threat and at Egghead, the soul of the past has felt pain when Joy Boy’s Haki was unleashed. In One Piece chapter 1147, fans also recognize that when Gunko attacked Brook, she felt a pain in her heart, indicating that she sensed the threat of souls, even when physical attacks were ineffective.

Considering all these factors, it is evident that the key point regarding the threat from Imu and the World Government is indeed the power of the Soru Soru no Mi belonging to Big Mom.
Big Mom can directly interact with the souls of various characters in One Piece, and that is what makes her a serious threat. She can steal or manipulate souls and even absorb them. Big Mom also has the ability to harm souls and, through that, pose a threat to the likes of Imu and the World Government. This could also suggest a potential return of Big Mom in the storyline.
Source: Gamerant