5 Most Powerful Villains Who Became Z Fighters in The Dragon Ball Z Franchise, Ranked

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Across all the different Dragon Ball series and continuations, the focus has always remained on the Z Fighters and their dedication to protecting Earth, no matter how powerful the enemy. As a classic action anime, Dragon Ball is known for its exciting battles and strong villains. However, the series often shows that villains aren’t simply evil; their motivations are complex and can change. In fact, Dragon Ball frequently introduces new allies to the Z Fighters—characters who were once formidable villains themselves.

Many former villains have changed their ways and become incredible heroes, even using their powers for good on numerous occasions. Here’s a list of the five strongest Z Fighters who used to be villains.

5) Android 18

Android 18 was originally created by Dr. Gero as one of his strongest androids – she was powerful enough to defeat even Super Saiyan Vegeta when she first appeared. After the battle with Cell ended, she settled down with Krillin, had a daughter, and lived a normal life. However, she remains incredibly strong and has repeatedly proven herself as a reliable ally in fights. She even competed in the Tournament of Power in Dragon Ball Super, battling formidable opponents from across the multiverse.

4) Piccolo

Piccolo started as a major enemy in the original Dragon Ball anime, but he dramatically changed in Dragon Ball Z, becoming an ally and helping to protect Earth from powerful invaders. During the fight against Cell, he asked Kami to fuse with him, which significantly increased his strength and allowed him to briefly hold his own against Android 17. Since then, Piccolo has continued to get stronger, and his impressive abilities are clearly demonstrated in Dragon Ball Super.

3) Majin Buu

Majin Buu was once the biggest threat the Z Fighters ever faced in Dragon Ball Z, but he eventually became an ally thanks to Mr. Satan. In Dragon Ball Super, Buu mostly hangs out with Mr. Satan, often acting childish and having a good time. While the other Z Fighters had major roles in the tournament, Buu didn’t have many significant moments of his own in Super, despite his immense power.

2) Android 17

Like his twin sister, 18, he was transformed into an Android by Dr. Gero to assist Cell in reaching his complete form. However, 17 was always the more powerful of the two, demonstrated by his ability to fight Piccolo even after Piccolo merged with Kami. He reappeared in Dragon Ball Super, competing in the Tournament of Power and showcasing a significant increase in his strength since the original Android Saga.

1) Vegeta

Vegeta, the proud Saiyan Prince, struggled after being defeated by Goku. After Frieza’s loss, he gradually joined forces with the Z Fighters, becoming both a rival and teammate to Goku. Though he often lags behind Goku in power, Vegeta remains one of the strongest fighters across all universes. He earned the Super Saiyan God transformation through intense, dedicated training – a different path than Goku, who attained it via an ancient ceremony.

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2026-01-28 01:40