In a surprising twist within the One Piece community, Kozuki Oden — once hailed as one of the series’ most noble and inspiring figures — is now facing a wave of criticism and ridicule from fans. Once admired for his bravery, charisma, and ultimate sacrifice for Wano, Oden’s legacy is being re-examined through a harsher lens. Social media platforms, forums, and fan discussions are filled with debates about whether the once-beloved “Daimyo of Kuri” was actually more reckless than righteous.
From Hero to “Dog💩 Man”
Oden’s reputation took a sharp turn when fans began revisiting key moments of his story, particularly his time under Whitebeard and Roger, as well as his return to Wano. Many have started to see his decisions — such as dancing in the streets for years to “protect” his people or trusting Orochi’s false promises — as painfully naive and even irresponsible. What was once viewed as a noble act of self-sacrifice is now being mocked as blind stupidity.
Across X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, the nickname “Dog💩 Man” began trending, with fans using it to express frustration over how Oden’s idealism led to Wano’s downfall. One viral comment read, “Oden had the strength to change everything, but he chose to dance instead.” This growing sentiment has split the fandom between those defending Oden’s intentions and others accusing him of poor leadership and weak judgment.
The God Valley Arc and the Re-Evaluation of Legends
Interestingly, Oden’s declining reputation coincides with the ongoing God Valley Arc, which has shifted fan focus toward older generations of pirates like Rocks D. Xebec, Gol D. Roger, and Monkey D. Garp. The flashback has reignited discussions about what true leadership and conviction look like in the One Piece world. Compared to these larger-than-life figures, Oden’s flaws now seem more apparent — especially his tendency to act impulsively rather than strategically.
Eiichiro Oda’s exploration of the God Valley Incident has been hailed as one of the most captivating storylines in years. By revealing the power struggles and historical choices that shaped the world, Oda invites readers to compare the “great men” of history — and Oden’s legacy doesn’t seem to hold up as flawlessly as before.
Fans Divided Over Oden’s Legacy
While some argue that Oden’s decisions were rooted in compassion and loyalty, others feel that his naivety cost countless lives. “He had all the potential to be one of the greatest leaders, but he let emotions guide him,” one fan wrote. Others counter that Oden’s compassion and humanity are exactly what make him such a powerful and tragic character.
This division has created a fascinating cultural shift: for years, Oden was synonymous with honor and freedom — a man who lived and died by his convictions. Now, newer fans and long-time readers alike are reinterpreting his actions through a more modern, critical lens, seeing him less as a legend and more as a flawed man overwhelmed by the world’s cruelty.
A Reflection of Oda’s Depth as a Storyteller
The debate over Oden’s reputation ultimately highlights Eiichiro Oda’s brilliance as a storyteller. Few characters in fiction can inspire admiration, pity, and frustration all at once. Even after his death, Oden continues to spark emotional and intellectual discussion within the fandom — proof of the complexity that makes One Piece endure.
As the God Valley Arc continues to unravel secrets about the past, it’s clear that Oda’s world is full of morally grey heroes and flawed legends. Whether fans love or hate Kozuki Oden, one thing is certain: his story remains one of the most unforgettable — and now, one of the most divisive — in One Piece history.
