In One Piece, Oda frequently introduces traitors within groups, such as Kanjuro, Robin, and Vivi, creating suspense around their true loyalties. With Luffy positioned as a messianic figure, it seems likely he would encounter a Judas among the Straw Hats or the Grand Fleet.
Many fans speculate that Caribou, who has been a significant but dubious ally during the post-time skip, could fill this role. He’s been involved in key moments, aiding Luffy and even witnessing the revelation of Luffy’s dream. While not a true Straw Hat, his presence aboard the Thousand Sunny allows Oda to set up a betrayal without compromising the core crew members.
As Caribou prepares to divulge critical information to Blackbeard—potentially exposing the Straw Hats’ vulnerabilities—his betrayal seems imminent. This could place Luffy and his crew in a dire situation, especially with Caribou’s knowledge of ancient weapons like Pluton and Poseidon.
Though Caribou has shown scummy traits, his eventual remorse could add depth to his character. However, the idea that he could represent a “true” betrayal among allies is debatable. Unlike other traitors who had ulterior motives from the start, Caribou’s dynamics resemble those of temporary allies, like Caesar.
On the other hand, there’s a possibility that a beloved character could betray the crew, creating a more devastating impact. This speculation leads to Kuzan’s mysterious alignment, especially given his appearance on Hachinosu. His laid-back demeanor may suggest he’s playing a deeper game with Blackbeard, raising questions about his true intentions.
Ultimately, the notion of betrayal is a recurring theme in One Piece, and Caribou’s potential role as a Judas highlights Oda’s ability to keep readers guessing about loyalty and trust within the crew.