Dragon Ball Z is considered a hugely influential series, both within the Dragon Ball franchise and in the broader world of anime and manga. It popularized characters like Goku, who has become a beloved and iconic figure in anime.
Even years after it finished airing, fans still see Goku’s actions in Dragon Ball Z as deeply meaningful and inspiring – it’s hard to put into words exactly why. Though there are countless memorable scenes, seven moments particularly stand out as defining his legacy.
7) Goku Sacrificing Himself To Defeat Raditz
The original Dragon Ball series put Goku in tough spots, but Dragon Ball Z quickly introduced much stronger villains, starting with Raditz. Raditz proved to be a formidable opponent, easily defeating both Goku and Piccolo, and ultimately forcing Goku to make a selfless sacrifice to win.
Watching this scene, it wasn’t about Goku being outmatched. It was clear he was prioritizing protecting others above all else, and that willingness to sacrifice everything really stood out. It’s a defining moment for him, and I think it’s what ultimately pushes him to become an even more incredible hero.
6) Goku Putting His Trust in Gohan
As the fight with Perfect Cell neared its climax, many fans believed Goku would transform into an even more powerful Super Saiyan or team up with Vegeta to win. However, Goku surprisingly announced that Gohan was actually the strongest fighter and could defeat Cell on his own – a moment that has become legendary in the series.
Many fans initially thought Goku made a terrible decision, even calling him a bad father, but it turned out he was right all along. This scene highlights Goku’s dedication to fighting and his ability to acknowledge the potential of others, rather than always needing to be the strongest himself.
5) Father-Son Kamehameha
The Father-Son Kamehameha is a legendary scene from Dragon Ball Z, and it’s particularly meaningful for Goku due to what it represents. After Goku sacrifices himself to defeat Cell, Cell unexpectedly comes back, forcing Gohan to tap into his ultimate strength.
Gohan finally defeats Cell thanks to the spiritual energy of his father, Goku, proving Goku’s influence on his son lasts even after death. Their combined Kamehameha wave is a powerful symbol of Goku passing his legacy onto Gohan, though Gohan didn’t fully become his successor. Despite this, it’s still considered one of Goku’s most famous scenes and the most memorable Kamehameha in the entire series.
4) Goku’s Spirit Bomb on Kid Buu
The last battle against Kid Buu in Dragon Ball Z was the most dangerous moment of the entire series, with Buu having the power to wipe out the entire solar system. Ultimately, Goku defeated him using a Spirit Bomb, which was powered by energy from Earth and other planets.
It’s a fitting turn of events that Goku’s past kindness comes back to help him when he needs it most, resulting in a truly unforgettable scene. When Goku launches the enormous Spirit Bomb at Kid Buu, transforms into a Super Saiyan, and gives a final salute, it creates a powerfully iconic moment rarely seen in anime.
3) It’s Over 9000
Everyone was thrilled when Goku came back to Earth after his first defeat, especially after hearing about his intense training with King Kai. Fans were desperate to see how he’d use his newfound strength to protect the planet, but even they were surprised by just how powerful he’d become.
The moment Vegeta famously read Goku’s power level as “over 9000” became a hugely popular internet meme and remains well-known today. This scene, where Goku’s power surged past 9000 upon his return after initially being defeated, is considered one of the most memorable in the entire series.
2) Super Saiyan 3 Transformation
Super Saiyan transformations are a hallmark of the Dragon Ball series, but Goku revealing his Super Saiyan 3 form was a truly shocking moment for fans. Though he mainly used the transformation to buy time against Majin Buu, the way he first showed it was incredibly entertaining and completely out of the blue.
Goku’s explanation of each Super Saiyan level before transforming into a Super Saiyan 3 is a truly memorable scene that showcases his calm confidence. Paired with the dramatic impact of the transformation itself, it’s a standout moment that always delivers excitement for viewers.
1) Goku’s Super Saiyan Transformation
Goku’s first transformation into a Super Saiyan is arguably the most memorable moment in the entire Dragon Ball series. It’s incredibly powerful because it’s tied to a huge emotional loss – the death of a friend – and fulfills the legendary prophecy Vegeta spoke of, making it a truly unique and unforgettable scene.
This scene from Dragon Ball had a huge impact on many later action anime and manga. It popularized the idea of showing a character’s development – both physically and emotionally – through changes in how they look. Goku’s transformation into a Super Saiyan is still considered one of the most famous moments in anime and manga history, and its influence continues to be seen in new series today, ensuring its legacy will last.
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2025-12-29 16:18