A common mistake among Dragon Ball fans is thinking that Goku always solves everything. In the original Dragon Ball Z films, this is actually kind of true. But looking at the manga and the entire franchise, the story changes. Goku wins many times, but he is not invincible.
The Multiverse and Other Strongest Warriors
Goku is not the strongest in his multiverse. Dragon Ball has always played with the idea that there will always be someone more powerful. Dragon Ball Super reinforces this. There are some people who can defeat Goku, and there are many of them.
Some of Goku’s Rivals
Broly the Enraged Saiyan
When Goku and Vegeta needed to turn into Gogeta to face Broly, it became clear that Goku alone couldn’t handle the angry Saiyan. Goku even mentions that Broly might be stronger than Beerus. But of course, Goku will probably surpass Broly eventually.
Jiren, Goku’s Philosophical Opposite
Jiren is boring, but he has an interesting contrast to Goku. He has raw power, but not Goku’s passion for fighting. Even with Ultra Instinct, Goku was unable to fully defeat Jiren. But, as the series loves overcoming, Goku will probably pass Jiren soon.
Moro, the Space Wizard
Moro is a super strong guy in Dragon Ball Super. With the help of Vegeta, Whis and others, Goku managed to beat him. But in a one-on-one fight, Goku would have a hard time. Even with True Ultra Instinct, he needs to perfect it to truly beat Moro.
Merus, the Former Angel
Merus, who helped fight Moro, is a challenge for Goku. Even without all of his angel powers, Merus is an incredible fighter. Goku needs to master True Ultra Instinct to stand a chance against him.
Cell Max, the Return of the Villain
Cell Max is an even more powerful version of the original Cell. He is a great challenge for the Dragon Ball Super characters, but Goku wasn’t there to face him. His Ultra Instinct would be a good weapon against Cell Max.
Gohan Beast, the Mighty Son
After the events of Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, Gohan is stronger than ever. His Gohan Beast form is impressive. The father-son relationship between Goku and Gohan may prevent a serious fight between them, but Gohan Beast is quite a challenge.
Vegeta, the Eternal Rival
Goku is generally stronger than Vegeta, but Dragon Ball Super has always shown the two as equals. If they fight again, we probably won’t have a clear winner.
Black Frieza, the Return of the Villain
Frieza returned in a new form, Black Frieza, after training for ten years. He is strong enough to defeat Gas with one punch and face Ultra Ego and Ultra Instinct together. Goku will have to work hard to overcome Black Frieza.
Conclusion
Goku is strong, but he is not unbeatable. Dragon Ball has a long list of characters who can challenge or even defeat Goku. This shows the constant evolution of the series and the message that there is always someone stronger out there.
