The tragic backstory that will make even the toughest One Piece fans reach for tissues is finally being animated!
One Piece Episode 1129 Set to Deliver the Most Tragic Backstory in Series History
Just when One Piece fans thought the Egghead Arc couldn’t get any more intense after Luffy knocked out Admiral Kizaru, the arrival of Saint Saturn – one of the mysterious Five Elders – has completely changed the game! But before we dive deeper into this terrifying new threat, Episode 1129 is taking us on what promises to be an emotional journey into Bartholomew Kuma’s devastating past.
Titled “Kuma’s Past: A World Where You Are Better Off Dead,” this upcoming episode is already being hailed by manga readers as potentially the most heart-wrenching backstory in the entire 25+ year history of One Piece. That’s saying something for a series known for its emotional character origins!
One Piece Episode 1129 Trailer
Episode 1129 Release Date: One Week Delay Confirmed
Last week we got some disappointing news. Episode 1129 not be airing on May 11, 2025. Instead, Toei Animation will be broadcasting a recap of Kuma and Bonney’s story thus far.
The good news? The wait won’t be too long! One Piece Episode 1129 is officially scheduled to premiere on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at 8:45 AM PT (11:45 AM ET) on Crunchyroll and Netflix.
Episode 1129 Global Release Times
Mark your calendars and set your alarms! Here’s exactly when Episode 1129 drops in different regions around the world:
- United States: 8:45 AM PT / 11:45 AM ET on May 18, 2025
- United Kingdom: 4:45 PM BST on May 18, 2025
- Australia: 2:45 AM AEST on May 19, 2025
- Philippines: 11:45 PM PHT on May 18, 2025
- India: 9:15 PM IST on May 18, 2025
- Japan: 12:45 AM JST on May 19, 2025
- Brazil: 12:45 PM BRT on May 18, 2025
- Germany: 5:45 PM CEST on May 18, 2025
- France: 5:45 PM CEST on May 18, 2025
- Mexico: 9:45 AM CST on May 18, 2025
What to Expect: Kuma’s Tragic Origin Finally Revealed
On May 16 One Piece official X Channel Shared a Kuma and Bonney visual Signifying Kuma’s Tragic Past. In the visual kuma is holding new born boney with care.
The upcoming episode will pick up right where Episode 1128 left off – with Bonney launching a surprise attack against Saint Saturn in his demonic form. While we’ll certainly see more of this confrontation and learn about Saturn’s terrifying powers, the episode will primarily focus on revealing Bartholomew Kuma’s complete backstory.
Without venturing into spoiler territory, manga readers have consistently described Kuma’s past as one of the most tragic and emotional storylines in the entire series. The episode title – “A World Where You Are Better Off Dead” – gives us a haunting hint at just how dark this origin story will be.
Why Kuma’s Backstory Is So Important
For years, Bartholomew Kuma has been one of One Piece’s most enigmatic characters. First introduced as a fearsome Warlord of the Sea with mysterious powers, he later became the first Pacifista – a human weapon modified by the World Government. His connections to both the Revolutionary Army and his apparent willingness to become a mindless weapon have puzzled fans for over a decade.
Most importantly, understanding Kuma’s past will provide crucial context for:
- His relationship with Jewelry Bonney and why she’s so determined to save him
- His connections to the Revolutionary Army and Dragon
- Why he made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the Straw Hat Pirates
- The true extent of the World Government’s cruelty
The Egghead Arc Continues to Raise the Stakes
The Egghead Arc has already delivered some of the most jaw-dropping moments in recent One Piece history. From the revelation of Dr. Vegapunk’s secrets to Luffy’s victory over Admiral Kizaru, the stakes keep climbing higher.
The arrival of Saint Saturn in his demonic form represents an unprecedented threat level. As one of the Five Elders (also known as the Gorosei), Saturn possesses powers far beyond what the Straw Hats have faced before. This upcoming episode will not only explore Kuma’s past but will also give us more insight into these mysterious rulers of the World Government.
Where to Watch One Piece Episode 1129
The latest episodes of One Piece are available through official simulcast on both Crunchyroll and Netflix globally. Remember that watching through these official channels supports the creators and ensures the continued production of high-quality episodes.
Both platforms offer the episode with professional subtitles in multiple languages, though there’s typically a short delay for dubbed versions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on the pacing of the anime and the importance of Kuma’s story, it’s likely that his backstory will extend across multiple episodes. Episode 1129 will begin this emotional journey, but fans should expect the full tragedy to unfold over at least 2-3 episodes for maximum emotional impact.
Saint Saturn is one of the Five Elders (Gorosei) who rule the World Government from the Holy Land of Mary Geoise. While originally appearing as elderly human leaders, the Egghead Arc has revealed their true demonic forms and godlike powers. Saturn is the first Elder to directly confront the Straw Hat Pirates, making him one of the most dangerous antagonists in the series.
Bartholomew Kuma was once a Revolutionary Army officer who later became a Warlord of the Sea (Shichibukai). Through a deal with the World Government, he gradually underwent modifications by Dr. Vegapunk that turned him into the first Pacifista cyborg. He eventually lost his personality and free will, becoming a mindless weapon serving the World Government. Episode 1129 will finally reveal why he would agree to such a terrible fate.
