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Since introducing the Holy Knights in One Piece chapter 1083, fans have been eager to compare the power dynamics between the World Government’s strongest authorities, such as the Holy Knights vs Admirals or the Holy Knights vs Gorosei. With One Piece entering its final saga, it is especially relevant to analyse how powerful these dangerous villains could be for Luffy and his crew.
While the Holy Knights are a relatively new introduction, and their deadly powers are yet to be fully revealed, Chapter 1135 hints at their terrifying potential. On the other hand, the Admirals have been known to the world since the early days of the series, with their powers and abilities well-established.
Although it may seem a bit premature to compare these two high-ranking authorities given the lack of information about the Holy Knights. With some fan speculation and the facts we know about these powerful groups, here’s a comparison between the Holy Knights and Admirals to explore which might pose a greater threat to the Straw Hats.
Related: One Piece Chapter 1136 Predictions: What’s Next in the Elbaf Arc?
Holy Knights vs Admirals: An Overview of Who They Are?
Who Are the Holy Knights?

The Holy Knights are elite warriors who serve as law enforcers for the World Government. Their primary responsibility is to maintain order in disputes involving the Celestial Dragons, the highest-ranking nobles in the One Piece world. These knights are feared not just for their authority but also for their rumored strength and combat prowess.
They were first mentioned during a speech by Monkey D. Dragon, who warned that their mobilization could escalate the conflict with the Revolutionary Army. This warning highlighted their dangerous potential, even causing concern for someone as powerful as Dragon.
Possible Strength and Abilities
There’s a theory that the Holy Knights, like the Gorosei, may possess mythical powers inspired by horror creatures such as mummies, werewolves, and reapers. For instance, a bandaged woman in Chapter 1135 showcased her ability to crush and immobilize enemies with her bandages, which hints at a terrifying and unique power set. If all Holy Knights possess such abilities, they could become one of the most fearsome groups in the series.
The Holy Knights seem to be skilled and confident fighters. The bandaged woman’s attack on a giant in Chapter 1135 demonstrated her commanding presence and willingness to impose her will. If she is representative of the Holy Knights’ strength, they could rival even the Admirals in combat.
Who Are the Admirals?

The Admirals are the World Government’s strongest military officers and are considered the ultimate enforcers of justice within the Marines. As the highest-ranking field officers, they have immense authority, including the ability to issue Buster Calls—devastating assaults capable of annihilating entire islands. Admirals operate as the Government’s primary line of defense against dangerous pirates and Revolutionary forces, making them central figures in maintaining global order.
Some of the most notable Admirals include Kizaru (Borsalino), Fujitora (Issho), and Ryokugyu (Aramaki), each with unique powers and personalities. Alongside them are legendary former Admirals like Aokiji (Kuzan) and Akainu (Sakazuki), who now serves as Fleet Admiral. These individuals have played critical roles in shaping the One Piece world through their strength, strategy, and sheer force of will.
Strength and Abilities
Admirals possess incredible combat abilities, making them some of the most feared fighters in the series. Most of them wield Logia-type Devil Fruits, granting them elemental powers with immense destructive potential. For instance, Kizaru’s Pika Pika no Mi allows him to move and attack at the speed of light, while Akainu’s Magu Magu no Mi gives him the power of molten lava, capable of devastating entire fleets. In addition to their Devil Fruits, Admirals are also masters of Haki, using advanced forms of Armament and Observation Haki in battle.
Their strength has been showcased in iconic battles throughout the series, such as the Marineford War and the epic duel between Akainu and Aokiji on Punk Hazard, which permanently altered the island’s climate. The Admirals’ physical prowess, combined with their tactical expertise and fearsome abilities, cements their status as the ultimate military force within the World Government.
Holy Knights vs. Admirals: Strength Comparison

Combat Abilities
The Holy Knights are rumored to possess mythical Zoan powers, potentially giving them supernatural abilities inspired by mythical creatures like mummies and werewolves. In contrast, the Admirals wield Logia-type Devil Fruits, granting them control over natural elements like light, gravity, and plants. Alongside this, the Admirals have mastered advanced Haki, which gives them an edge in both offense and defense. Dragon’s statement about the Holy Knights being a significant threat raises speculation that they might surpass the Admirals in raw strength, though this remains unconfirmed.
Authority and Roles
Admirals are crucial to the World Government’s military power, leading large-scale operations and maintaining global order. They can initiate Buster Calls and are often deployed in high-profile missions. On the other hand, the Holy Knights serve as elite enforcers for the Celestial Dragons, focusing on disputes within the World Nobles and acting as a more specialized force. While the Admirals’ authority is broad, the Holy Knights have a more targeted and arguably fearsome role in protecting the Celestial Dragons’ interests.
Numbers and Team Dynamics
The Admirals are limited in number, with only three active members at any given time. Despite this, their individual strength allows them to take on multiple opponents or even lead battles single-handedly. In contrast, the Holy Knights are at least nine in number, suggesting a potential advantage in teamwork and versatility. However, the actual strength of each Holy Knight compared to an Admiral remains a topic of debate.
Historical Impact
The Admirals have played pivotal roles in major events, such as the Buster Call on Ohara, the Marineford War, and the recent battles at Wano and Egghead. Their influence has shaped the course of the world’s power dynamics, making them central to the story’s history.
The Holy Knights, though newly introduced, carry historical significance through figures like Saint Figarland Garling, who participated in the God Valley Incident. This connection hints at their longstanding influence and suggests that their presence may rival the Admirals in historical importance.
Related: Wano vs Egghead: Which Arc Is Better?
Holy Knights vs. Admirals: What Are Fans Speculating?
@famousroman: the level of yonko also varies as u can’t compare Luffy with let say shanks and I want to believe one admiral won’t be an easy fight for Luffy, so if the holy knights are above the admirals they should also be above most of the yonkos and if they were that strong why are we just hearing of them now.
@krisbishop: Above Admiral level, at least. They’re implied to be the Celestial Dragons and WG’s personal assassins / fighters, they likely have to be strong enough to kill even Admirals seeing how they were threatening Ryokugyu with a death penalty. Not mention how Dragon isn’t even fazed by the mobilisation of Admirals, but recognises the threat of the God’s Knights. Possibly endgame level foes.
@mortein: one of them already in Elbaf with this Shanks lookalike, I’m afraid these Knights are stronger than the Admirals because even Fleet Admiral Akainu wouldn’t dare to cross the line to punish the one who caused chaos in Mariejois..
Final Thoughts
The Holy Knights and Admirals represent two of the World Government’s most formidable forces, each with unique strengths. The Admirals, with their Logia-based powers, advanced Haki, and battlefield dominance, have been a consistent threat throughout the series. In contrast, the Holy Knights bring an air of mystery and danger, especially with figures like the Shanks lookalike, who is speculated to be their leader. As the son of Saint Figarland Garling, his lineage and the mysterious sword he wields suggest immense power. Alongside him, the bandaged woman with her terrifying abilities adds another layer of intrigue and threat.
As the Final Saga unfolds, who do you think will pose a tougher challenge to the Straw Hats? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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