The theory that Usopp, Noland, and Roger are all connected is one of the most compelling and comprehensive fan theories in the One Piece fandom. It's built on a central idea that can be perfectly summarized by the phrase: a wild goose chase for the golden goose.
The "wild goose chase" is the global hunt for the One Piece, which is seen by the world as a pointless search for something that doesn't exist. But the "golden goose" is the invaluable, hidden truth—the real treasure that awaits the one who survives the chase.
Thematic Parallels
The theory links these three figures through the complex relationship between lies and truth.
Noland the Liar: Noland was an honest man and a botanist who told the truth about the City of Gold. However, the world branded him a liar and executed him. His final moments were marked by the injustice of his truth being twisted into a falsehood.
Roger the Legendary Figure: A popular fan theory suggests Roger used a strategic "lie" to set the world on its current course. By claiming he left all his treasure in one place, he started a journey he knew would lead someone to the real truth of the world. He died with a smile, confident his plan would succeed.
Usopp's Role: Usopp is the one who will bridge these legacies. His entire character arc is based on his lies becoming reality. By surviving the global hunt, he will find the true treasure, redeem Noland’s name by proving his truth, and fulfill Roger’s legendary plan.
The Will of D. and Sogeking
This theory gains even more depth when considering two key aspects of Usopp's journey.
The Will of D.: The fan theory that Usopp is a descendant of the Marshall clan would make him a "D." This would explain the dramatic moment at Enies Lobby when Usopp, as Sogeking, shot down the World Government's flag. That single act of rebellion wasn't just a declaration of war; it was a physical manifestation of the "Will of D.," a bloodline that has always challenged the World Government and destiny itself.
The Legend of Sogeking: The idea of Sogeking being a "lie" that becomes a reality fits perfectly with Usopp's character arc. The "King of Snipers" is currently just a persona, but the legend of Sogeking could grow into a real, independent figure—an anti-World Government hero who inspires people to fight back. He could become a global symbol of rebellion, a hero so mysterious and powerful the World Government is never able to trace him back to a simple boy from the East Blue.
Lineage Connections
This theory also proposes a deeper connection through bloodlines.
Montblanc Lineage: It is strongly implied that Usopp is a descendant of Noland. The shared profession of botany and Usopp's lie to the Tontattas about being a Montblanc ancestor feels like a prophecy waiting to be fulfilled.
Marshall Lineage: A separate fan theory suggests Usopp is a distant relative of Blackbeard (Marshall D. Teach) due to their similar facial features. This would set up a final, ideological conflict between two "liars" from the same lineage—one who uses lies for good and one who uses lies for evil.
Real-World Parallels: Adding to this, Oda has stated that in a real-world context, Usopp would be African and Blackbeard would be Somali. Since Somalia is in Africa, this adds a powerful layer to their potential conflict, representing two opposing ideologies from the same continent.
By combining all these elements, Usopp's role in the story becomes far more significant. He isn't just a sniper; he is the key to resolving the historical injustices of the Void Century, completing the legacy of Gol D. Roger, and confronting the ultimate deceiver in the world of One Piece.
