Also just re-read the chapter and I don’t know if anyone else has been able to draw this parallel but I do find it quite interesting that Oda’s been highlighting Sanji’s durability & endurance throughout this encounter with Kiringham.
https://cdn.mangagoa.xyz/manga_69c933867456d/vol-tbe-chapter-1182/gp_006.jpg
https://cdn.mangagoa.xyz/manga_69c933867456d/vol-tbe-chapter-1195/qone_piece_1195_015.jpg
In the same vein you have Zoro & Sommers where Zoro’s completely dominating Sommers with Zoro cutting through Sommers like butter with the later constantly highlighting how dangerous he is.
So feels like Oda is writing a Sword / Shield type parallel here with Zoro and Sanji.
I do wonder if this is going to bleed into whatever type of Conqueror Sanji ends up becoming

In Sanji's mind all of those decisions he made were made with the resolve to protect the crew even at the cost of his life which isfine but I think the problem is that even if he doesn't resalize it himself he subconiosuly views himself as disposable.
"As long as I can protect these guys my life is a cheap price to pay" so rather than a "disposable" shield Sanji has to become an "unbreakable" shield instead. Sanji doesn't necessarily have to change that part of him, he just has realize just how valuable he is.
https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/1l38mer