Usopp’s performance in the duel is arguably his most tactical and "brave" showing in the series. He utilizes everything in his arsenal, including:
: Unlike Luffy’s typical foes, Usopp knows exactly how Luffy fights, allowing him to briefly hold his own despite the massive power gap. The Burden of Leadership 236 : Luffy vs. Usopp! Collision of Two Men's P...
: He integrates Dials from Skypiea, notably using an Impact Dial to absorb and redirect Luffy’s own "Gomu Gomu no Bazooka". Usopp’s performance in the duel is arguably his
: He fakes coughing up blood with a "Ketchup Star" to exploit Luffy's concern. : He fakes coughing up blood with a
The conflict ignites when Luffy, acting on professional shipwright advice, decides they must abandon the because its keel is irreparable. To Usopp, the ship is not just wood; it is a gift from his home and a symbol of his own journey. Having recently lost the crew's money to the Franky Family, Usopp’s guilt fuels a deep-seated insecurity: if the crew can discard a "useless" ship, they might eventually discard him too. The Duel: Strategy vs. Power