Now that we get to see how powerful The White Beard Pirates are, it really set things into perspective for the Straw Hats. I am beginning to wonder how is it possible for the Straw Hats to become the new Pirate King's crew, when White Beard's gang didn't even achieve it. Side by side comparison between the two groups, it looks impossible for Luffy and co to ever be as strong as or stronger than White Beard's pirates.
We can just look at the top 3 strongest of each crew. Luffy vs Whitebeard, I can't imagine Luffy ever beating Whitebeard considering how easy Whitebeard slice Aokiji in seconds. Zoro would face Marco and no way he can hurt Marco since he heals instantly. Sanji can kick as hard as he wants but he won't even make a scratch against Diamond Jose, if MiHawk can't even slice him.
So is it reasonable to assume the Straw Hats will not be the strongest in the world but will have the title as "Pirate King" and co simply for finding One Piece?