One Piece: Ranking the Yonko by Their Reign Duration
The Yonko, also known as the Four Emperors, are the most formidable pirates in the One Piece world. These individuals have earned their legendary status through their sheer power, influence, and reputation. Their dominance is so overwhelming that even the Navy prefers to avoid direct confrontations with them. Over time, the ranks of the Yonko have seen shifts, with some Emperors falling while others rise to take their place. Here, we rank the longest-serving Yonko in One Piece history.
7. Monkey D. Luffy (Reigning for a Few Weeks)
Luffy is the newest addition to the Yonko ranks, having been declared an Emperor following his victory over Kaido in the Wano Country arc. This event took place only a few days ago in the One Piece timeline. With a bounty of 3 billion berries, Luffy has proven himself to be one of the strongest pirates of the current era. Despite his recent rise, he stands alongside other formidable Emperors in the new era of piracy.
6. Buggy the Clown (Reigning for a Few Weeks)
Much like Luffy, Buggy has only recently ascended to Yonko status. Previously a Warlord of the Sea, Buggy's influence stems from his connections to the Red-Haired Pirates and his past as a member of the Roger Pirates. Following the abolition of the Warlord system, he found himself leading the Cross Guild—a misunderstanding that led to his recognition as an Emperor. With a bounty of 3.189 billion berries, Buggy now holds a seat among the Yonko.
5. Marshall D. Teach (Blackbeard) (Reigning for About 1 Year)
Blackbeard replaced Whitebeard as a Yonko after the Paramount War. He consolidated power by seizing Whitebeard's territories and later defeating the remnants of his crew during the Grudge War. Officially, he was recognized as an Emperor following the Rocky Port Incident, where he eliminated Wang Zhi with the help of Trafalgar Law and Koby. Having held the title for about a year, Blackbeard remains one of the most dangerous figures in the One Piece world.
4. Red-Haired Shanks (Reigning for 6 Years)
Despite his long-standing presence in the series, Shanks was officially recognized as a Yonko only six years ago. With a bounty of 4.0489 billion berries, he is a fearsome figure whose true strength has yet to be fully revealed. Nonetheless, he is widely regarded as one of the strongest characters in the One Piece universe.
3. Kaido (Reigned for 20-24 Years)
Kaido, one of the most powerful beings in the world, served as a Yonko for over two decades. Once a member of the infamous Rocks Pirates, Kaido rose to prominence in the New World around 20 to 24 years ago. His strength was well-documented when he fought against Oden, confirming his status as an Emperor by that time. His reign came to an end when Luffy defeated him during the Wano arc.
2. Charlotte Linlin (Big Mom) (Reigned for 20-24 Years)
Big Mom, the captain of the Big Mom Pirates, was one of the longest-serving Emperors. She carved her path to power decades ago and was likely recognized as a Yonko around the time of Roger’s death, approximately 24 years ago. With her immense strength and command over a powerful fleet, she maintained her rule until her downfall in Wano alongside Kaido.
1. Edward Newgate (Whitebeard) (Reigned for About 24 Years)
Whitebeard, known as the "Strongest Man in the World," was the longest-serving Yonko in One Piece history. A former member of the Rocks Pirates, he established his own powerful crew and was acknowledged as an Emperor around 24 years ago, following Roger’s death. Whitebeard's reign lasted until the Paramount War, where he met his tragic end, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest pirates to ever live.
Conclusion
The Yonko have shaped the world of One Piece for decades, with their influence spanning generations. While some have held the title for only a short time, others have dominated the seas for years. As the series progresses, new challengers may rise to claim these prestigious positions, further shifting the balance of power in the pirate world.