Goku, the Saiyan protagonist of Dragon Ball, is known for his powerful techniques like Kamehameha and Spirit Bomb, inherited from his masters. However, the Dragon Fist (Ryūken) stands out as a technique seemingly invented by Goku himself. This article delves into the origins of Dragon Fist, exploring fan theories and analyzing its appearances in the Dragon Ball universe.
The Mystery Surrounding Dragon Fist’s Origin
While the Dragon Ball Wiki lists Dragon Fist as one of Goku’s energy-based techniques, the anime and manga offer no explicit explanation of how Goku developed this move. Unlike techniques with clear lineages, Dragon Fist’s creation remains shrouded in mystery, prompting fans to speculate about its origins.
A Popular Fan Theory: Connecting the Dots
A prevailing theory posits that Goku developed Dragon Fist after defeating Majin Buu. Inspired by his victory over King Piccolo, and perhaps reminded of it by Piccolo himself, Goku might have sought to refine the energy used in that fight. This theory suggests that the wish to Shenron, erasing Buu from everyone’s memory except the Z-Fighters, could have influenced the technique’s visual appearance, with the summoned dragon resembling Shenron.
Dragon Fist’s Role as a Last Resort
The theory further proposes that Goku intended Dragon Fist as a last resort against powerful, bulky opponents. This aligns with its use against Hirudegarn in “Wrath of the Dragon”, Super 17, and Omega Shenron in Dragon Ball GT. The sheer power required and the devastating impact of the technique support this idea.
Canonicity and Recurring Appearances
While “Wrath of the Dragon” and Dragon Ball GT are often debated in terms of canonicity, Dragon Fist’s reappearance in GT and various video games, including Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2, solidifies its significance within the franchise. The technique’s consistent portrayal as a powerful, finishing move further emphasizes its importance to Goku’s arsenal.
Dragon Fist: A Unique Creation in Goku’s Repertoire
Dragon Fist is unique as it’s arguably the only technique solely attributed to Goku’s ingenuity. While he has mastered and adapted numerous techniques, the Dragon Fist represents a departure from inherited moves, showcasing Goku’s capacity for innovation and growth. Its iconic visual, the golden dragon emerging from his fist, distinguishes it from other energy attacks, making it a visually stunning and memorable technique.
Could We See Dragon Fist Again?
Though currently absent from Dragon Ball Super, the possibility of Dragon Fist’s return remains. Given the series’ tendency to revisit and reimagine elements from previous installments, fans hold out hope for witnessing this powerful technique in future storylines. Its unique origins and visually striking execution make it a compelling candidate for reintroduction.
