Yeah I think that Van der Decken IX could have eaten a devil fruit, i mean the name of his curse is called "mato mato." that is pretty much a dead give away! but in reference to him being underwater, i think that he must either be full or half merman. Being a merman, a sea creature, eating a devil fruit would have the opposite effect that are normal for devil fruit users. instead of not being able to swim, he might not be able to walk on land again. In addition, there could be proof to this because of the legend briefly mentioned when he was introduced.
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Originally Posted by CrowKenobi
Unless he can't control his "aim..."
I'm thinking along the line of that's why he's wearing gloves: if he touches someone else, his "aim" will transfer to that "person" and he'll lose the princess. 
Of course, this can change depending on what the translation is...  |
I agree, this could be similar to how Kuma wears a glove when he is not using his powers.