'One Piece' chapter 896 release date, plot rumors: Luffy vs. Katakuri battle could end in a draw

An interesting development happened in the fight between Monkey D. Luffy and Charlotte Katakuri in the previous chapter of "One Piece" manga. After many hours of getting beaten repeatedly by Big Mom's Sweet Commander, the Straw Hat leader has finally unlocked a new technique that could help him finish his opponent soon. Luffy's Gear 4th Snakeman form has proven to be effective against Katakuri, although the latest spoilers for "One Piece" chapter 896 suggest that the face-off could end in a draw.

Promotional art for the "One Piece" manga seriesViz Media

According to the latest plot predictions posted on Otaku Art, it is possible that the almost endless battle between Luffy and Katakuri will come to an end in "One Piece" chapter 896. However, there is still uncertainty regarding the outcome of the fight. For one, Luffy is now able to move faster using his Gear 4th Snakeman technique, and Katakuri is having a hard time determining the next move of his opponent, in spite of the latter mastering the Observation Haki. While this might be an advantage on Luffy's side, there is no guarantee that the Snakeman would be enough to take down Katakuri for good.

With this, the outcome of the fight between Luffy and Katakuri in "One Piece" chapter 896 could be a draw, considering that both parties have already exhausted much of their strength to secure a victory. Some fans thought that Luffy might not be able to handle his Gear 4th Snakeman form any longer. Although, it is also likely that Luffy will be able to throw Katakuri out of the Mirror World. Nevertheless, Luffy and the rest of the Straw Hat pirates are in danger, now that Big Mom's children are determined to capture them all. Sanji could play a special role in the next chapter as he tries to save Luffy from the group sent by Big Mom to kill him. 

"One Piece" chapter 896 will come out of a one-week hiatus as manga creator Eiichiro Oda previously announced that he is going on a leave. The latest chapter is expected to be out later this week.