Welcome to the ultimate Dragon Ball Z facts page! Whether you’re a super fan or just getting into it, we’ve got all the most interesting info about this legendary anime series. From epic battles to jaw-dropping transformations, these fun facts will power up your knowledge of Goku and the gang!

1. Goku’s real name isn’t Goku!

Did you know Goku’s birth name is actually Kakarot? Born on the planet Vegeta, Goku was part of the Saiyan race, a group of fierce warriors. His Saiyan name, Kakarot, was given by his father Bardock, but when he landed on Earth, Grandpa Gohan adopted him and named him Goku. This iconic hero has two identities – one relating to his origins, and one connected to his adventures on planet Earth!

2. Saiyan hair never grows!

Saiyan hair is unique because it never grows or changes once a Saiyan reaches adulthood. Vegeta mentions this fun fact during the series. So, the spiky styles Goku and Vegeta sport? That’s the same look they’ve had since childhood. Talk about a low-maintenance hairstyle! Must save a bit of time in the morning.

3. Gohan was supposed to take over as the main hero!

Believe it or not, Goku’s son Gohan was originally planned to be the series’ next big hero. After the Cell Saga, creator Akira Toriyama hinted that Gohan would step into the spotlight. However, fans loved Goku so much that he remained the lead, and Gohan continued as a secondary character. Sorry, Gohan. Maybe one day.

4. The Dragon Balls can grant any wish!

The seven Dragon Balls are so powerful that, when collected, they can summon Shenron, a magical dragon. Like a fire-breathing genie, Shenron can grant most wishes, whether it’s bringing a character back to life or creating a whole new planet! However, there are limits — Shenron can’t destroy beings stronger than himself, like Beerus or Zeno. Fair enough.

5. Vegeta’s name is a play on words!

The Saiyan Prince Vegeta has a royal name, but did you know it’s a pun? Vegeta is based on the word vegetable, continuing the series’ tradition of Saiyan names being veggie-based. Kakarot, for example, comes from… yes, you get it. It’s a funny joke from the creators who are probably very healthy when it comes to lunchtime choices. There is no character called Plate of Chips, for example.

6. Super Saiyan was inspired by real life!

The famous Super Saiyan transformation, where they power up and you can see their spiky hair turn blonde, was actually designed to save time! Dragon Ball Z creator Akira Toriyama thought it would be quicker for his team to draw less hair detail by making it lighter. So that’s how the iconic golden hairdo was born!

7. Frieza has multiple forms!

Frieza, one of Dragon Ball Z‘s most scary villains, can turn into different forms, each more powerful than the last. He has four forms in DBZ, with his final one being totally menacing. This helps him to focus his power and makes his opponents tremble with fear!

8. Goku and Vegeta are rivals forever!

The rivalry between Goku and Vegeta is the stuff of legend. Though they’re both Saiyans, their personalities are vastly different. Goku is laid-back and carefree, while Vegeta is very serious. Despite their differences, they push each other to become stronger, with Vegeta always trying to become more powerful than Goku!

9. The Namek Saga introduced alien planets!

Before Dragon Ball Z, the series mainly took place on Earth. The Namek Saga changed that by introducing the planet Namek, home to the Dragon Balls’ creator, the Namekians. This storyline introduced fans to new cultures, alien races, and epic space travel, expanding the Dragon Ball universe even more.

10. Dragon Ball Z is full of Easter eggs!

Not actual Easter eggs, though. In the Dragon Ball Z series, there are tons of hidden references for fans to discover. For example, Bulma’s family name is ‘Briefs’ keeping with the series’ playful tradition of clothing-themed names. Keep your eyes peeled for more hidden jokes! Don’t look for a character called Peter Pants, because they don’t exist (as far as we know).

11. Goku can teleport!

One of Goku’s greatest skills is called ‘Instant Transmission’, a trick he learned on the planet Yardrat. This move allows him to teleport instantly to any location, as long as he can sense someone’s energy. It’s not only useful for battles but also for traveling long distances in the blink of an eye! He could go to the shops in the blink of an eye if he wanted, but he uses his powers for good, rather than avoid waiting for a bus.

12. Piccolo used to be a villain!

It’s hard to believe, but Piccolo wasn’t always the heroic mentor we know today. In the original Dragon Ball series, Piccolo was a villain who wanted to conquer Earth. However, after battling Goku, Piccolo changed his ways, eventually becoming one of the Z Fighters and a mentor to Gohan. Looks like Yoda after getting a gym membership.

13. It has the longest fight scene in anime history!

The fight between Goku and Frieza took 19 episodes to complete. That’s over 3 1/2 hours! Best get some popcorn. And a pillow and a blanket. Maybe some water, too.

14. Majin Buu has many forms!

Majin Buu, the final villain in Dragon Ball Z, is known for his ability to absorb others and change forms. From his childlike form to the menacing Super Buu and Kid Buu, each transformation harnesses new powers and a scarier personality. He’s one of the most unpredictable characters in the story, but that’s what keeps things exciting for the fans.

15. Dragon Ball Z inspired many shows!

Dragon Ball Z’s influence stretches far beyond anime. Its action-packed stories and larger-than-life characters has inspired many shows, including Naruto and One Piece. Many of today’s popular anime creators say that Dragon Ball Z is a huge influence on anime today.