8 Dragon Ball Myths Even Fans Believe

Hey Dragon Ball fanatics! Even the most die-hard fans sometimes get caught up in common misconceptions about the series. Let's debunk eight widespread myths that still circulate in the Dragon Ball universe. Get ready to have your knowledge tested and maybe even learn something new!

1. Goku is the Strongest Character Ever

Okay, guys, let's dive straight into the biggest myth in the Dragon Ball fandom: Goku is the strongest character ever – not just in Dragon Ball, but ever. While Goku's power levels are definitely over 9000, claiming he’s the absolute strongest across all anime, manga, and fiction is a bit of a stretch. Goku is undoubtedly a powerhouse, consistently pushing his limits and achieving new forms like Super Saiyan God, Super Saiyan Blue, and Ultra Instinct. His dedication to training and his Saiyan biology give him a massive edge, allowing him to break through barriers that seem impossible to others. Think about his battles against Frieza, Cell, and Buu – each time, he surpassed his previous self, showcasing his incredible potential. However, when we zoom out and look at the broader landscape of fictional characters, the picture becomes a bit more complex. There are characters in other universes, like Saitama from One-Punch Man, who are literally designed to defeat any enemy with a single punch, or cosmic entities from Marvel and DC Comics who wield power on a scale that dwarfs even Dragon Ball's most formidable fighters. Consider the omnipotent beings in various mythologies and fictional universes. These entities possess power that transcends the physical realm, often controlling the very fabric of reality. Can Goku's energy blasts and martial arts skills truly compete with beings who can manipulate time, space, and existence itself? It's a compelling thought experiment that highlights the vast range of power levels across different fictional worlds. Now, this isn't to diminish Goku's achievements or his incredible strength within the Dragon Ball universe. He's a symbol of perseverance, constantly striving to become stronger and protect his friends and family. But it’s essential to consider the context of different universes and the diverse power scales that exist within them. Goku's strength is legendary within his world, and his battles are some of the most epic in anime history. Yet, the idea of absolute strength is subjective and depends heavily on the rules and power dynamics of each fictional universe. So, while Goku might not be the strongest ever in a universal sense, he remains one of the most iconic and beloved characters in anime history, and his journey to push beyond his limits continues to captivate fans worldwide. Let's appreciate Goku for the amazing character he is within his own universe, rather than trying to definitively crown him as the strongest in all of fiction. It's more fun to debate and speculate, right?

2. Super Saiyan 5 is Canon

Alright, let's tackle another persistent myth: Super Saiyan 5 is canon. Guys, I know the fan art looks amazing, and the idea of Goku or Vegeta reaching yet another level of Saiyan transformation is super exciting, but Super Saiyan 5 is strictly a fan-made creation. It’s a testament to the creativity and passion of the Dragon Ball community, who have envisioned countless new forms and storylines for our favorite characters. These fan-made transformations often circulate online, gaining traction through stunning artwork and compelling concepts. The designs are frequently intricate and imaginative, incorporating elements from previous forms while adding unique twists, such as different hair colors, fur patterns, and energy auras. It’s easy to see why these fan creations can sometimes be mistaken for official content, especially if someone is new to the fandom or hasn’t followed the official releases closely. However, it’s important to distinguish between what’s officially part of the Dragon Ball canon and what’s fan-generated. The official Dragon Ball storyline is overseen by Akira Toriyama and his team, and it’s primarily presented through the manga, anime series (like Dragon Ball Super), and official movies. Anything that hasn't appeared in these official sources is considered non-canon. Now, the confusion around Super Saiyan 5 often stems from its popularity and the impressive artwork associated with it. Many fans have created detailed backstories, power scaling, and even entire storylines around this form, making it feel like a legitimate part of the Dragon Ball universe. But again, it's crucial to remember that this is a product of fan imagination, not official material. So, what is canon then? The official transformations in the Dragon Ball Super series include Super Saiyan God, Super Saiyan Blue, and Ultra Instinct. These forms have been designed and approved by Akira Toriyama, ensuring they fit within the established lore and power scaling of the Dragon Ball universe. They represent the latest evolutions in Saiyan power and have been central to the most recent storylines in the anime and manga. While Super Saiyan 5 remains a cool concept and a fantastic example of fan creativity, it’s not part of the official Dragon Ball narrative. It’s a fun thought experiment to consider what a Super Saiyan 5 form might look like and how powerful it could be, but we should always keep in mind its non-canonical status. The Dragon Ball community is incredible at generating new ideas and content, and Super Saiyan 5 is a prime example of that creativity. Let’s celebrate the fandom's imagination while staying informed about what’s actually canon. This helps keep discussions accurate and ensures we’re all on the same page when talking about the official Dragon Ball story.

3. Piccolo is Nail's Reincarnation

Let's clear up a Namekian mystery: Piccolo is Nail's reincarnation. While Piccolo and Nail's destinies are intertwined, reincarnation isn't quite the right word here. It's a bit more nuanced than that, guys. When Piccolo was created by King Piccolo as his final offspring and eventual reincarnation, he was conceived as a separate entity with his own identity and purpose. However, the events on Namek added a layer of complexity to Piccolo's story. During the Frieza Saga, Piccolo found himself outmatched by Frieza's overwhelming power. In a desperate attempt to gain strength, Piccolo merged with Nail, a Namekian warrior who had served as a guardian for Guru, the wise elder of the Namekian village. This wasn't a reincarnation in the traditional sense, where a soul is reborn into a new body. Instead, it was a fusion, a process where two individuals combine their bodies, minds, and power into a single being. The result was a significantly stronger Piccolo, one who inherited Nail's memories, experiences, and fighting abilities. Nail's essence became a part of Piccolo, but Piccolo's own identity remained dominant. Think of it like adding a powerful upgrade to a computer – the core system is still the same, but it now has enhanced capabilities. This fusion allowed Piccolo to go toe-to-toe with Frieza's second form, showcasing the dramatic increase in power that the merger provided. It also highlighted the unique abilities and traditions of the Namekian race, where fusion serves as a means to enhance strength and protect their people. So, if Piccolo isn't Nail's reincarnation, what exactly is his origin then? Piccolo is, primarily, the offspring and reincarnation of King Piccolo. When King Piccolo was defeated by Goku, he spat out an egg containing Piccolo Jr., who would become the Piccolo we know and love. This Piccolo inherited King Piccolo's memories and hatred for Goku, setting the stage for their initial rivalry. Over time, however, Piccolo evolved into a more complex character, developing his own sense of honor and eventually becoming a valuable ally to Goku and the Z Fighters. The fusion with Nail was a pivotal moment in Piccolo's development, adding to his power and providing him with a deeper connection to his Namekian heritage. It's a testament to the intricate storytelling of Dragon Ball that characters have such layered backgrounds and experiences. In summary, while Nail's essence is definitely a part of Piccolo, it's more accurate to describe their union as a fusion rather than a reincarnation. Piccolo remains the reincarnation of King Piccolo, but he carries within him the strength and memories of Nail as well. This makes Piccolo a unique and fascinating character, blending the legacies of two powerful Namekians into one formidable warrior. Understanding the nuances of this fusion helps us appreciate the complexity of the Dragon Ball universe and the characters who inhabit it. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in understanding Piccolo’s journey and his place in the story.

4. Yamcha is Useless

Let's talk about Yamcha, guys! The myth that Yamcha is useless is perhaps one of the most enduring and unfairly applied in the Dragon Ball fandom. It’s become a running joke, fueled by a few unfortunate moments in the series, but it doesn’t accurately reflect Yamcha’s character or his contributions. Yes, Yamcha has had some memorable defeats, most notably his iconic pose after being defeated by a Saibaiman during the Saiyan Saga. This scene has been immortalized in memes and jokes, solidifying the perception of Yamcha as a weakling. However, focusing solely on these moments overlooks the many times Yamcha has demonstrated courage, skill, and genuine strength. In the early days of Dragon Ball, Yamcha was a formidable fighter. He was a desert bandit who held his own against Goku in their first encounter. He developed his own signature techniques, like the Wolf Fang Fist, which showcased his martial arts prowess. Yamcha was also one of the first characters to recognize the threat posed by the Saiyans and dedicated himself to training to protect the Earth. He trained alongside the other Z Fighters under Master Roshi and later Kami, pushing his limits and striving to become stronger. While he may not have reached the same power levels as Goku or Vegeta, his efforts were far from insignificant. Yamcha's problem isn't necessarily a lack of strength, but rather the sheer scale of power escalation in Dragon Ball. As the series progressed, the enemies became increasingly powerful, reaching levels that surpassed even the most dedicated human fighters like Yamcha. Facing opponents like Frieza, Cell, and Buu, who could destroy planets with ease, Yamcha and other human characters like Krillin and Tien found themselves outmatched. This doesn’t mean they were useless; it simply means they were operating in a different tier of power. Beyond his fighting abilities, Yamcha has also contributed to the Z Fighters in other ways. He’s shown strategic thinking and provided support during battles. He’s a loyal friend and teammate, always willing to put himself in harm's way to protect others. In more recent Dragon Ball storylines, Yamcha has found his niche as a skilled baseball player, showcasing his athleticism and competitive spirit in a different arena. While this might seem like a departure from his fighting days, it demonstrates that Yamcha has found a way to stay active and contribute in his own way. It's time we give Yamcha the respect he deserves. He may not be the strongest fighter in the universe, but he’s a valuable member of the Dragon Ball cast. Let's remember his early accomplishments, his dedication to training, and his unwavering loyalty to his friends. The “Yamcha is useless” meme has run its course – it's time to acknowledge the true Yamcha and appreciate his role in the Dragon Ball saga.

5. Gohan Peaked During the Cell Games

The discussion about Gohan's power is a hot topic, guys, and the idea that Gohan peaked during the Cell Games is a myth that deserves a closer look. While Gohan's performance against Cell was undoubtedly epic, suggesting it was his absolute peak overlooks his potential and later developments in the series. During the Cell Games, Gohan unleashed his hidden power, transforming into Super Saiyan 2 and overpowering Cell in a spectacular display of strength. This moment was a culmination of his latent abilities, nurtured by intense training and triggered by his rage at Cell's cruelty. Gohan's Super Saiyan 2 form was a sight to behold, and he seemed poised to become the strongest character in the universe. It’s understandable why many fans view this as his peak – the sheer dominance he displayed against Cell was truly awe-inspiring. However, the idea that Gohan never surpassed this level of power is an oversimplification. After the Cell Games, Gohan's priorities shifted. He pursued his academic interests, focusing on his studies and family life. He didn't train as rigorously as he had before, and his power level naturally declined. This led to the common perception that he had become weaker, especially compared to Goku and Vegeta, who continued their relentless pursuit of greater strength. But Gohan's story is one of balance. He's a character who values both strength and intellect, and he strives to find harmony between his Saiyan heritage and his human life. His decision to prioritize his studies doesn't mean he lost his potential; it simply means he chose a different path. In the Buu Saga, Gohan unlocked another level of power – the Mystic form, also known as Ultimate Gohan. This transformation was achieved through a ritual performed by the Supreme Kai, which unlocked Gohan's full potential without the need for further transformations. In his Mystic form, Gohan was incredibly powerful, even surpassing Goku's Super Saiyan 3 form at the time. He dominated Super Buu in their initial encounter, showcasing the immense power he possessed. This is a crucial point to remember: Gohan's Mystic form represents a different kind of peak. It's not just about brute strength; it's about tapping into his full potential and utilizing his inherent abilities to their maximum extent. While Gohan's power fluctuated in subsequent storylines, particularly in Dragon Ball Super, his potential for growth remains a key part of his character. He continues to train and find new ways to tap into his power, demonstrating that he hasn't plateaued. The Tournament of Power in Dragon Ball Super saw Gohan fighting strategically and effectively, proving that his intelligence and combat skills are just as important as his raw power. So, while the Cell Games was a monumental moment for Gohan, it wasn't the end of his journey. He's a character who defies easy categorization, balancing his Saiyan heritage with his human aspirations. Gohan's story is a reminder that strength isn't just about power levels; it's about making choices and finding your own path. Let's appreciate Gohan's complexity and acknowledge that his potential is far from limited to a single moment in time.

6. Vegito is Stronger Than Gogeta

This is a classic debate in the Dragon Ball fandom, guys: Vegito is stronger than Gogeta. It's a question that sparks endless discussions and theories, and the truth is, it's not as straightforward as it might seem. Both Vegito and Gogeta are incredibly powerful fusions of Goku and Vegeta, but they are created through different methods, which leads to some key distinctions in their power and abilities. Vegito is the result of the Potara fusion, using the magical Potara earrings worn by the Supreme Kais. This fusion is considered permanent in the original manga and anime, although a retcon in Dragon Ball Super introduced a time limit for non-deities. When Goku and Vegeta fuse using the Potara earrings, they combine their strength, speed, and techniques into a single, immensely powerful being. Vegito's power is often portrayed as being greater than Gogeta's, and there are a few reasons why this perception exists. The Potara fusion has been described as a more effective fusion method, potentially multiplying the power of the fused individuals to a greater extent than the Fusion Dance. Vegito also has a reputation for being more arrogant and playful in battle, often toying with his opponents before delivering the final blow. This can give the impression of even greater power, as he seems to be holding back and enjoying the fight. Gogeta, on the other hand, is the result of the Fusion Dance, a technique that requires Goku and Vegeta to perform a synchronized dance to merge their bodies and souls. This fusion lasts for only 30 minutes and requires precise execution to avoid failure. While the Fusion Dance might seem less potent than the Potara fusion, Gogeta is still an incredibly formidable warrior. He has displayed immense power in his appearances, particularly in the movie Dragon Ball Super: Broly, where he fought Broly in his Super Saiyan Blue form and ultimately emerged victorious. So, why the debate then? If Vegito is considered the more powerful fusion, why do fans still argue about it? One of the main reasons is the lack of direct comparisons. Vegito and Gogeta have rarely appeared in the same storyline, and they have never fought each other directly. This makes it difficult to definitively say which fusion is stronger, as we only have their performances against different opponents to go by. Another factor to consider is the personality differences between Vegito and Gogeta. Vegito's cocky and playful nature can sometimes hinder his effectiveness, as he may prolong a fight unnecessarily. Gogeta, on the other hand, tends to be more serious and focused, aiming to defeat his opponent quickly and efficiently. This difference in approach can impact the perception of their power levels. Ultimately, the question of whether Vegito is stronger than Gogeta remains a matter of debate. Both fusions are incredibly powerful, and their strengths and weaknesses make for a compelling discussion. Perhaps the best way to view it is that they are different sides of the same coin, each representing the combined might of Goku and Vegeta in their own unique way. Let's appreciate both Vegito and Gogeta for the awesome characters they are, rather than getting too caught up in trying to definitively rank them.

7. Dragon Ball GT is Non-Canon

Let's address the status of Dragon Ball GT, guys! The myth that Dragon Ball GT is non-canon is a complex issue with a lot of history behind it. It's a topic that often divides the Dragon Ball fandom, and understanding the nuances of canon and non-canon material is essential to appreciating the series as a whole. Dragon Ball GT was the successor to Dragon Ball Z, airing from 1996 to 1997. It continued the adventures of Goku and his friends, introducing new characters, transformations, and storylines. However, unlike the previous Dragon Ball series, GT was not directly based on Akira Toriyama's manga. While Toriyama did provide some initial designs and ideas for GT, he was not as heavily involved in its production as he was with the original Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z. This is the primary reason why many fans consider GT to be non-canon. Canon, in the context of a franchise like Dragon Ball, refers to the officially recognized storyline and events. This typically includes the original manga, the anime adaptations that closely follow the manga (like Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z), and any material directly overseen and approved by the original creator, Akira Toriyama. Given Toriyama's limited involvement in GT, it's often excluded from the official canon. However, the story doesn't end there. The Dragon Ball franchise has evolved over the years, and the definition of canon has become somewhat fluid. With the arrival of Dragon Ball Super in 2015, the official storyline continued beyond the events of Dragon Ball Z, effectively sidelining GT. Dragon Ball Super is directly supervised by Akira Toriyama, and its events are considered the current canon. This means that elements introduced in GT, such as Super Saiyan 4 and characters like Pan's GT design, are not part of the official timeline. Despite its non-canon status, Dragon Ball GT holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. It introduced unique concepts and transformations, like the aforementioned Super Saiyan 4, which many fans adore. The storyline, while sometimes inconsistent with the established lore, explored new territories and offered a different take on the Dragon Ball universe. The final episodes of GT, particularly the ending, are often praised for their emotional impact and sense of closure. So, where does this leave Dragon Ball GT then? It exists in a sort of liminal space – not officially canon, but still a significant part of Dragon Ball history. Many fans view it as an alternate timeline or a separate continuity, enjoying it for what it is without worrying too much about its canonicity. It's important to remember that enjoying a piece of media doesn't require it to be canon. Dragon Ball GT has its own merits, and it has contributed to the overall Dragon Ball legacy. The debate over canon versus non-canon can sometimes become overly rigid and exclusionary. It's okay to appreciate different aspects of the franchise, regardless of their official status. Let's celebrate the creativity and passion that went into Dragon Ball GT while acknowledging its place outside the main storyline. Ultimately, the Dragon Ball universe is vast and diverse, and there's room for multiple interpretations and continuities. Whether you consider GT canon or not, it remains a memorable chapter in the Dragon Ball saga.

8. Krillin is Weak

Let's stand up for Krillin, guys! The myth that Krillin is weak is another misconception that needs to be debunked. While Krillin may not have Saiyan blood or the ability to transform into a Super Saiyan, he is far from weak. In fact, he's one of the strongest humans in the Dragon Ball universe and a vital member of the Z Fighters. It's true that Krillin often finds himself outmatched by the series' most powerful villains, but this doesn't diminish his accomplishments or his contributions to the team. Krillin has consistently pushed his limits, trained rigorously, and faced opponents who were far stronger than him. He's a testament to the power of human determination and the strength that can be achieved through hard work and dedication. In the early days of Dragon Ball, Krillin was Goku's training partner and best friend. He studied under Master Roshi alongside Goku, learning the Kamehameha and developing his martial arts skills. Krillin's techniques, like the Destructo Disc, are incredibly powerful and have proven effective against many opponents. The Destructo Disc, in particular, is a testament to Krillin's ingenuity and ability to develop his own unique fighting style. It's a razor-sharp energy blade that can slice through almost anything, and it has caught many enemies off guard. Krillin has used this technique effectively against powerful foes, demonstrating his strategic thinking and combat prowess. Krillin's strength isn't just about his techniques; it's also about his courage and resilience. He's faced terrifying enemies, including Frieza, Cell, and Buu, and he's never backed down from a fight. Even when he knows he's outmatched, Krillin stands his ground and does everything he can to protect his friends and family. This bravery is a defining characteristic of Krillin, and it makes him a true hero. Krillin's role in the Dragon Ball saga extends beyond his fighting abilities. He's a loyal friend, a loving husband, and a devoted father. His relationships with Android 18 and his daughter Marron add depth and emotional resonance to the story. Krillin's interactions with other characters highlight his compassionate nature and his ability to connect with people on a personal level. It's also important to remember that Krillin has achieved several significant feats throughout the series. He was instrumental in defeating the Ginyu Force, and he played a crucial role in the fight against Frieza on Namek. He's also a skilled strategist, often providing valuable insights and support during battles. In the Tournament of Power in Dragon Ball Super, Krillin demonstrated his growth and experience as a fighter. He used his techniques and strategies effectively, proving that he can still hold his own against powerful opponents. It's time we put the