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One Piece fans have always loved to speculate about the mysteries in the series. One such fascinating theory, presented by @writingpanini, suggests that “Shanks’ twin brother is the Man Marked by Flame.” This idea intricately weaves together themes of family ties, mythology, and the race for the One Piece. Whether this twin is a guardian of the World Government’s secrets or a rogue force with his own agenda, his introduction could profoundly impact the story.
As the final saga unfolds, especially with Shanks’ twin seemingly present in Elbaf, this theory adds an exciting layer to the mystery surrounding the Road Poneglyphs and the legacy of the Figarland family. Let’s dive into the theory and explore its potential implications.
Related: One Piece Chapter 1136 Predictions: What’s Next in the Elbaf Arc?
Is Shanks Twin Brother The Man Marked by Flame?
Shanks’ Twin and the Scar Connection

Shanks famously bears a scar on his face, inflicted by Blackbeard during their past encounters. But what if Shanks isn’t the only Figarland to carry such a mark? According to this theory, Shanks has a twin brother who also bears a scar—making him the “Man Marked by Flames.”
The scar could serve as a symbolic link between Shanks and his twin, showing them as two sides of the same coin. While Shanks chose the path of piracy, his twin might have taken a different road, one tied to the World Government and the Holy Knights.
The Role of the Figarland Family
Saint Figarland Garling, a known Holy Knight and former leader of the group, plays a key role in this theory. If Shanks and his twin are part of this legendary family, it could explain their extraordinary powers and their importance in the story. The twin, possibly following in Garling’s footsteps, might have taken up the mantle of a Holy Knight, tasked with protecting the Road Poneglyph.
Related: Holy Knights vs Gorosei – Who is Stronger in One Piece?
The Final Road Poneglyph and Fishman Island

The Road Poneglyph that the Straw Hats are searching for was once on Fishman Island, under Whitebeard’s protection. However, it mysteriously disappeared before Luffy and his crew arrived.
The theory suggests that Shanks’ twin, the Man Marked by Flames, stole the Poneglyph from Fishman Island. This might explain the tension between Whitebeard and the Figarland family, hinted at when Whitebeard mentioned that Shanks reminded him of “that guy” who inflicted a wound on him. Could Shanks’ twin have been the one who fought Whitebeard to take the Poneglyph?
The Mysterious Powers of Shanks’ Twin

According to the theory, the Man Marked by Flames commands whirlpools that surround his ship, preventing anyone from approaching him. This ability could be tied to a Mythical Zoan power granted to him by the World Government, similar to the transformations of the Gorosei.
The whirlpools might even be inspired by the mythological Charybdis, a sea monster known for creating deadly whirlpools capable of sinking ships. If this is true, Shanks’ twin could embody a sea monster archetype, adding to his mystique.
A Tale of Two Brothers: Gryffindor and Slytherin
This theory draws a fascinating parallel between Shanks and his twin using Gryffindor and Slytherin imagery. Shanks wields a sword named Griffon, evoking the courage and honor of Gryffindor. His twin, however, could embody the cunning and ambition of Slytherin, using his serpent-like powers to maintain control over the final Poneglyph.
Related: One Piece Chapter 1134 Two Mysterious Characters (Theory)
The Future Role of Shanks’ Twin

If Shanks’ twin is truly the Man Marked by Flames, his role in the final saga could be pivotal. By guarding the Road Poneglyph, he directly opposes any pirate’s attempt to claim the One Piece. This aligns with his speculated role as a Holy Knight, enforcing the World Government’s authority and preventing chaos.
However, his motives remain unclear. Is he protecting the Poneglyph for the World Government, or does he have his own reasons for keeping it out of reach? Could he be an ally to Shanks, or will their paths collide in a dramatic confrontation?
Final Thoughts
In One Piece history, speculation often has little to do with Oda’s actual imagination. However, passionate fans like @writingpanini love to imagine and share theories that keep the fandom engaged and entertained while we wait for the mysteries to be revealed. So, let’s enjoy the excitement and hope that the theory of Shanks’ twin brother being the Man Marked by Flames
will lead to an intriguing conclusion when the true identities of the Man Marked by Flames and Shanks’ lookalike are finally uncovered.