The First Sailors to Use Logia-Type Powers
Smoker was introduced as the first Marine to use a Logia-type Fruit power in the manga and anime. Thanks to the Moku Moku no Mi, he can completely transform his body into smoke, making him invulnerable to physical attacks. At the time, there was an atmosphere suggesting that such powers were exclusive to pirates; Smoker shattered that perception.
The Marine Who Didn't Kill Luffy
Despite having multiple opportunities to capture Luffy, Smoker never attempts to kill him. Despite being a pirate, he recognizes Luffy's sense of justice. This demonstrates that Smoker is not a blindly loyal Marine but interprets the concept of justice according to his own moral compass.
The Mad Commander of G-5
Smoker took command of the G-5 base after Punk Hazard. This base is composed of Marines who follow the rules the least, often being rude and undisciplined. However, Smoker is respected as a commander even in this chaos; because his soldiers know him not out of fear, but for his determination and the battles he fights on the field.
Haki Awakens Before Zoro
Although the use of Haki becomes more widespread over time in the series, Smoker is one of the characters shown to use Haki at an earlier stage. Especially in his battle with Vergo, where he covered his weapons with Busoshoku Haki and fought, it showed viewers that he was no ordinary Marine.
Shares the Same Principle as Coby
Although they shone at different times, Coby and Smoker share a common trait: “Fair Justice.” Smoker's refusal to blindly follow orders mirrors Coby's evolving sense of personal justice, setting them apart from most Marines in the One Piece universe.
Reality Changed at Punk Hazard
After Caesar Clown's gas attack, Smoker's heart temporarily fell into Trafalgar Law's hands. When Law turned his attention back to Smoker, we witnessed a Marine being humiliated and manipulated to such an extent for the first time. This event was a turning point for Smoker, not only physically but also in terms of prestige.
The Respect Between Luffy and Smoker
The relationship between Smoker and Luffy is more than just a classic “cat and mouse” chase. At the end of the battle in Alabasta, Luffy saves Smoker, and Smoker does not report it, proving that the two have a silent but deep respect for each other.
His Harsh Stance Against Caesar Clown
When Smoker learned that Caesar had poisoned the children, he brutally attacked him. This scene showed how deeply his sense of justice had grown. Despite being a marine, he set aside his institutional responsibilities and acted directly according to his conscience.
His Internal Conflict
Smoker often finds himself torn between the ideals of the Navy and his own ethical beliefs. When the interests of the World Government clash with the lives of individuals, Smoker usually chooses the people over the system. This aspect of his character makes him one of the gray characters in One Piece.
Reminds of Garp's Youth
Fans often talk about Smoker's resemblance to Garp. Both are brave enough to defy the system while still being part of it. This similarity is so striking that many people think Smoker could be the new generation of “free mariner” to replace Garp.
The Trust He Builds with Tashigi
Smoker's relationship with Tashigi, the sub-officer he works with most frequently, goes beyond the chain of command. He sees her not just as a subordinate but as a comrade. Tashigi has, at times, directly defied Smoker, and he respects her for it. This duo represents a rare, balanced subordinate-commander bond in One Piece.
Visual Use of Smoke
In the anime, Smoker's power is reflected in a stylized way. Smoke is used not only for attack or defense, but also to darken the scene, increase tension, or show the character's mood. In particular, his face covered in smoke while smoking in the shadows symbolizes both his tired and determined side.
Resistance Against the Government in Arabasta
After the Arabasta incident, Smoker is offered a reward by the World Government but refuses it. He does not want to be a pawn in the government's scheme to cover up Crocodile's crimes. This decision marks the first time the existence of “free-thinking” Marines within the system is openly acknowledged.
The Man Symbolized by the Cigar
The two thick cigars in Smoker's mouth are iconic elements of his character. This is not merely a visual detail; it symbolizes his irritability, impatient nature, and endless anger. Furthermore, this habit reminds us that he is always on edge and tense.
Reluctance to Advance in Rank
Smoker does not care that Sailors with lower qualifications are quickly advancing in rank while he remains in the same position. This is because, for him, it is not “rank” that matters, but “influence.” Even though he is not an Admiral on paper, his reputation in the field is equal to that of many Admirals.
A Rebel Who Commands Respect Among Sailors
Smoker is one of the rare sailors who can stand up to his superiors, yet he is still respected. This is because he is a man of action, not words. Not only his subordinates but also some high-ranking commanders take him seriously due to his seriousness and determination on the field. This is a rare occurrence in the hierarchical structure of the One Piece universe.
Clothing Change in Punk Hazard
After Punk Hazard, Smoker's attire undergoes a noticeable transformation. Previously wearing a heavy coat and a classic sailor outfit, his attire becomes simpler and more aggressive when he joins G-5. This also symbolizes the character's evolving mental transformation.
Tense Alliance with Trafalgar Law
In Punk Hazard, Smoker and Trafalgar Law's paths clash, then temporarily intersect. Law stealing his heart is one of the rare moments when Smoker is physically defeated. However, his subsequent strategic collaboration with Law by sharing information demonstrates that he can sit down at the table with an enemy when necessary.
The Man Who Never Quits Smoking
Among fans, the phrase “Even if One Piece ends, Smoker won't quit smoking” has become a joke. This habit is part of the harsh and straightforward nature Oda has given Smoker. In an era where modern anime characters are often depicted without cigarettes, Smoker's persistence in this habit stands out.
A Potential Navy Reformer
If a reform were to occur within the Navy, fans theorize that Smoker could be its leader. He doesn’t adhere to Akainu’s rigid sense of justice nor does he adopt Aokiji’s stance of defying the system. He is one of the rare figures with the potential to bring about change from within.
The Last Sailor to Support Luffy Becoming Pirate King
According to some fan theories, Smoker will be the last Marine who does not stand in Luffy's way at the end of the series. This is because Smoker judges pirates not personally, but based on the damage they cause. When he recognizes Luffy's efforts to free the world, he may see him not as a threat, but as a solution.