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Gohan, the eldest son of Goku, has always been a character of immense potential in the Dragon Ball series. From his early days as a timid child to his explosive power-up during the Cell Saga, Gohan has consistently proven himself to be one of the most powerful warriors in the franchise. However, after the Cell Saga, Gohan’s character took a different turn, focusing more on his academic life and less on combat. This shift left many fans wondering what happened to the once-mighty warrior. The answer came in the form of Gohan’s Ultimate Form, a transformation that not only revitalized his character but also showcased his unparalleled potential as a Hybrid Saiyan.
What Is Gohan’s Ultimate Form?
A Transformation Rooted in Latent Potential
Gohan’s Ultimate Form, also known as his “Potential Unleashed” state, is a unique transformation that differs from the traditional Super Saiyan forms. Unlike the Super Saiyan transformations, which rely on emotional triggers and physical strain, the Ultimate Form is achieved through a ritual performed by the Elder Kai. This ritual taps into Gohan’s latent potential, unlocking his full power without the need for the usual Saiyan transformations.
The process involves the Elder Kai performing a dance for approximately five hours, followed by 20 hours of intense meditation. During this time, Gohan’s dormant power is awakened, allowing him to access a level of strength that rivals even Super Saiyan 3. The transformation is marked by a subtle change in Gohan’s appearance: his hair remains the same length and color, but one of his bangs drapes over his forehead, and his posture exudes confidence and readiness.
When Did Gohan Unlock the Ultimate Form?
A Turning Point in the Majin Buu Saga
Gohan first unlocked his Ultimate Form during the Majin Buu Saga in Dragon Ball Z. After the Elder Kai sensed Gohan’s immense latent potential, he offered to perform the ritual to unlock it. Despite the lengthy process, Gohan’s Hybrid Saiyan heritage allowed him to complete the ritual faster than expected.
Once transformed, Gohan’s power was so immense that it caught even Goku off guard. The Ultimate Form granted Gohan strength comparable to Super Saiyan 3, making him one of the most powerful warriors on Earth at the time. This newfound power allowed Gohan to dominate Majin Buu in their initial battle, showcasing his incredible potential. However, Gohan’s overconfidence led to a critical mistake, resulting in his absorption by Majin Buu and a significant power boost for the villain.
Other Appearances of Gohan’s Ultimate Form
A Staple in Gohan’s Arsenal
While Gohan’s Ultimate Form made its debut in Dragon Ball Z, it has since become a staple in his arsenal, appearing in various arcs of Dragon Ball Super. Here are some key moments where Gohan utilized this powerful transformation:
- Dragon Ball Super: Gohan used the Ultimate Form to spar with Piccolo and Goku, regaining his fighting prowess in preparation for the Tournament of Power.
- Tournament of Power: Gohan employed the Ultimate Form to defeat opponents like Obni, Saonel, and Pilina, as well as to hold his own against Top and Dyspo.
- Dragon Ball Super Manga: Gohan remained in his Ultimate Form throughout the Tournament of Power and later used it to battle Moro’s henchmen, solidifying his position as the third-strongest fighter on Earth, behind Goku and Vegeta.
The Ultimate Form has consistently proven to be a game-changer in battles, allowing Gohan to hold his own against some of the most formidable opponents in the series.
Can Someone Else Achieve the Ultimate Form?
A Transformation Unique to Gohan
As of now, Gohan is the only character to have undergone the Elder Kai’s ritual and unlocked the Ultimate Form. While other characters like Goku and Vegeta have achieved their own unique transformations (such as Ultra Instinct and Ultra Ego), the Ultimate Form remains exclusive to Gohan. This exclusivity highlights Gohan’s unique potential as a Hybrid Saiyan and sets him apart from the other warriors in the series.
However, it’s worth noting that Gohan’s Ultimate Form is no longer his strongest transformation. In Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero, Gohan unlocked a new form known as the Beast Form during his battle with Cell Max. This transformation surpasses the Ultimate Form in terms of power, marking a new chapter in Gohan’s evolution as a fighter.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Gohan’s Ultimate Form
Gohan’s Ultimate Form is a testament to his incredible potential and the unique role he plays in the Dragon Ball universe. While he may not have become the main protagonist as originally planned, Gohan’s journey from a reluctant warrior to a confident fighter has been one of the most compelling arcs in the series. The Ultimate Form not only revitalized Gohan’s character but also solidified his place as one of the most powerful warriors in the franchise.
As Dragon Ball continues to evolve, fans can look forward to seeing how Gohan’s Beast Form and other transformations will shape his future battles. Whether he’s fighting alongside his father or standing on his own, Gohan’s legacy as a warrior of immense potential remains unmatched.
Dragon Ball is available to stream on Crunchyroll and Funimation.
