What title does Ozai assume in the first part of Sozin's Comet?

In the first part of “Sozin’s Comet,” Ozai assumes the title Phoenix King.

Ozai makes the declaration as Sozin’s Comet approaches, an event that dramatically amplifies Firebending. He abandons the traditional title of Fire Lord and presents himself as the supreme ruler of a new global empire. His plan is to use the comet’s power to burn through the Earth Kingdom and end the Hundred Year War through mass destruction.

The title also exposes Ozai’s political ambition. He is not merely defending Fire Nation territory; he intends to transform the war into a conquest of the entire world. His daughter Azula is left with the ceremonial position of Fire Lord while Ozai takes the grander imperial title. The finale’s first segment is therefore titled “The Phoenix King.”

“Phoenix King” is sometimes confused with Fire Lord because Ozai held that title immediately beforehand. Earth King is the monarchic title associated with Ba Sing Se, Fire Sage is a religious role, and Dragon Emperor is not Ozai’s title in the series.