Dragon Ball is one of the most iconic series in the world of anime, known for its epic battles and unforgettable characters. Not only has it gained a legion of fans, but it continues to do so, especially with the release of new content like the Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero movie. In this film, we see a different focus, with characters like Piccolo and Gohan gaining more prominence, while Goku and Vegeta, the usual heroes, are not as central to the plot.
Speaking of Goku, he is arguably one of the most beloved characters in anime. Despite having a certain tendency to act without thinking, he is adored for his gentle nature, his courage and his incredible strength. Goku is known for throwing himself into dangerous battles, even when they aren’t his, all to protect those he loves. This, of course, resulted in some memorable deaths throughout the series.
Remarkable Moments of Goku’s Deaths
Hit and the Phoenix Eye Fist
In Dragon Ball Super, after the Future Trunks saga, there is an interesting arc where Goku faces Hit, an assassin hired to kill him. In a tense fight, Hit uses the Phoenix Eye Fist, a blow that stops Goku’s heart, apparently killing him.
But Goku, in a cunning move, had already prepared a ki blast that ends up restarting his heart. The most surprising thing is to discover that it was Goku himself who arranged the confrontation, wanting to test his skills against Hit. It was a typical Goku moment, always looking for a greater challenge.
Zamasu and the Future Trunks Saga
Another impactful moment is during the Future Trunks saga, when we discover that Zamasu, an antagonist of the series, takes control of Goku’s body in an alternative timeline. He not only takes over Goku’s body, but also eliminates his family, and in a final act, destroys his own body to ensure that Goku is no more.
This gives rise to Goku Black, a villain who tries to use the Super Saiyan form with divine ki, but is unable to unleash the full potential of Goku’s body. The irony is that the fusion of Future Zamasu and Goku Black, seeking immortality, ends up being their undoing, an ending that symbolizes the series’ complexity and twists.
The Fight Against Heart Disease
The Tragedy of The History of Trunks
One of Goku’s most impactful deaths happens in the OVA “The History of Trunks”. In this parallel universe, Goku faces a battle he cannot win: a fatal heart disease. Without any warning or preparation, he succumbs to the virus, leaving Earth vulnerable to the threat of the Androids.
This event triggers a series of catastrophic events, leading to the deaths of several heroes. However, Future Trunks, determined to change this dark fate, travels back in time to provide Goku with a life-saving medicine in another timeline. This death highlights not only Goku’s vulnerability, but also the importance of his presence in the fight against the forces of evil.
The Sacrifice Against Cell
Protecting the Earth
One of Goku’s most heroic and dramatic moments occurs during Gohan’s battle against Cell. Gohan, after achieving the Ascended Super Saiyan form, becomes the only one capable of defeating Cell. But Gohan’s arrogance leads to a desperate situation, with Cell about to self-destruct, threatening the entire Earth.
At this critical moment, Goku makes the selfless decision to use Instant Transmission to transport Cell away, sacrificing his own life to save the planet. This act not only shows Goku’s selflessness, but also serves as a teaching moment for Gohan about the consequences of arrogance and uncontrolled power.
The Confrontation with Raditz
The Beginning of Dragon Ball Z
The beginning of Dragon Ball Z is marked by the shocking revelation that Goku is, in fact, a Saiyan named Kakarot, sent to Earth to conquer it. His brother, Raditz, arrives to remind him of his mission, kidnapping Gohan in the process. The ensuing battle is intense, with Goku and Piccolo having a difficult time against Raditz.
In an act of desperation and courage, Goku holds Raditz back, allowing Piccolo to use his Special Beam Cannon technique, knowing that this would result in his own death as well. This moment not only demonstrates Goku’s bravery, but also marks the beginning of his epic journey in Dragon Ball Z, introducing viewers to the complexity and depth of the Saiyan universe.
The Dragon Ball anime is available in full on Crunchyroll.
