One Piece fans go crazy as MLB star Jazz Chisholm Jr. sports Luffy Gear 5 kicks

One Piece has undeniably established itself as a global phenomenon at this point. Even non-animanga fans recognize Monkey D. Luffy and are able to pinpoint which series he hails from. Eiichiro Oda's magnum opus has been a constant topic of discussion in anime and manga circles, more so with the revelation of Gear 5 in the story.

On countless occasions, even celebrities have expressed their interest and delight over anime, particularly mentioning One Piece as a series they adore. Not to mention, numerous brands have collaborated with the animanga gaint, incorporating it into their products. Most recently, Major League Baseball star Jazz Chisholm Jr. has come under the spotlight for his Luffy Gear 5 kicks.

Needless to mention, sporting and animanga fans alike were extremely thrilled to see this and wasted no time in filling social media with it.

One Piece: MLB star Jazz Chisholm Jr. shows off Luffy Gear 5 kicks

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MLB player Jazz Chisholm Jr. was more proof that One Piece is here to stay when he sported Luffy Gear 5 kicks in his most recent game. Playing for the New York Yankees, Jazz was spotted with a pair of shoes that had an all too familiar design on them. Upon close inspection, it was a moment that took the internet and the world by storm - Luffy unlocking Gear 5.

The pirate was in an iconic pose, leaned back with his feet up above the ground, right hand covering his eyes with his left on his abdomen. Following the revelations of Gear 4, many were anticipating the fifth of Luffy's 7 Gears. Needless to say, Oda did not disappoint when it was first teased. Moreover, the abilities strung along with this form make Luffy an unstoppable force on the seas.

Jazz sporting these kicks marks a major cultural crossover between the sporting and anime worlds. As a high-profile MLB talent, Jazz showcasing one of One Piece's most iconic and awaited transformations indicates personal fandom as well as how deep anime has permeated mainstream Western pop culture. It is a celebration of the series' rise to global cultural touchstone, embraced by all.

Fans take to social media to share the thrill around One Piece kicks

Luffy in Gear 5 (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Needless to mention, fans of both worlds were quick to take to their socials to share their thoughts. It was a coming together of people and worlds, given the sport's popularity coupled with the immense repute of Oda's masterpiece.

"Can't lie, these go hard affff," a fan wrote.

"He got the best shoes," an X user commented.

"Drug test Jazz Chisholm Jr. for devil fruit! It’s the only way!" a netizen exclaimed.

"Issa ONE PIECE world," an X user posted.

There was nothing but praise and admiration for the subtle statement put forth by Jazz. As mentioned, it showcased how deeply anime and manga have meshed themselves into other worlds such as sport and pop culture.

One user even went as far as to suggest Jazz be drug tested for the Devil Fruit, likely complimenting his talent for the game. Ultimately, it cannot be argued or denied that even after years of its first chapter and episode, the series is going strong.

After all, Luffy has yet to unlock 2 more Gears (technically) and whatever else Oda has in store definitely won't disappoint.

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About the author

Casey has been an anime writer at Sportskeeda since almost a year. Being drawn into the world of animanga after watching the Dragon Ball series almost a decade ago, Casey's interest in the genre, along with his love of crafting plot theories influenced his writerly endeavors. Presently pursuing a Master's degree in International Business, Casey worked for Uneake and FootballExpress for 1.3 years before joining Sportskeeda.

Casey's writings reflect his commitment to producing the most reliable content, evidenced by his flair for in-depth reporting. He places a high value on meticulous research and complete factual accuracy.

Although it was legendary Akira Toriyama’s magnum opus that influenced his love of animanga, Casey soon branched out and explored other titles. The unique ways in which mangakas express ideas, as well as their far-reaching effects, have inspired Casey in his creative pursuits.

When not busy writing, Casey enjoys working out, listening to music, strumming the guitar, and playing football.

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Edited by Casey Mendez