Top 10 Early Dragon Ball Fights: Humor and Action Before the King Piccolo Saga

Early Dragon Ball's Blend of Humor and Action

The original Dragon Ball is known for its humorous tone, which often took precedence over serious martial arts action. This approach changes with the emergence of the King Piccolo Saga, but prior to this, audiences were treated to an array of battles that combined comedic elements with inventive fight sequences. Focusing on the arc before the King Piccolo Saga, we revisit ten iconic early fights that highlight the series' charm and creativity.

10. Goku vs Mercenary Tao Round 2: A Power-Up Redemption

Goku Avenges Bora

When Goku first encounters Mercenary Tao, he faces a foe seemingly beyond his ability, resulting in near-fatal consequences. Goku's fortuitous misadventure leads him to Korin Tower, where he trains with Master Korin and undergoes his first significant power-up.

In their rematch, Goku dominates, utilizing his newfound strength, which is both satisfying and a testament to his growth. The fight ends explosively as Tao inadvertently detonates his own grenade.

9. Krillin vs Chiaotzu: Outsmarting Psychic Power

Krillin's First Kamehameha

The 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament introduces Chiaotzu, a Crane School student with supernatural abilities. Despite being overpowered in raw strength, Krillin triumphs through his intellect by exploiting Chiaotzu's mathematical limitations.

This bout isn't just about outsmarting Chiaotzu; it’s also where Krillin showcases his growth by performing his first Kamehameha, inspired by Yamcha’s technique.

8. Goku and Arale vs General Blue: A Crossover of Universes

The Charm of Gag Power

The chase through Penguin Village connects Dragon Ball with Akira Toriyama's Dr. Slump. Here, Arale, a character rooted in gag comedy, humiliates General Blue alongside Goku. This crossover delivers laughs rather than tension, highlighting Toriyama's vast creative universe.

7. Goku vs Ninja Murasaki: A Comedic Masterpiece

While the Red Ribbon Army Arc can be slow-paced, the battle with Ninja Murasaki stands out for its slapstick humor. The encounter is delightfully ridiculous, emphasizing absurd antics over traditional fight dynamics.

6. Goku vs Masked Man: A Heartfelt Revelation

The Reward Beyond Victory

In Fortuneteller Baba's tournament, Goku battles a mysterious opponent revealed to be Grandpa Gohan. This emotional encounter showcases martial arts choreography and offers Goku a heartwarming reunion.

The fight concludes Goku's journey against the Red Ribbon Army and rewards him with the chance to reconnect with a figure from his past.

5. Jackie Chun vs Tien Shinhan: A Clash of Philosophies

A Lesson in Defeat

Master Roshi, under his alter ego Jackie Chun, aims to redirect Tien from a destructive path during the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament. The battle is both physical and philosophical as Jackie tries to instill the true values of martial arts in Tien.

Roshi ultimately forfeits, understanding that only Goku can help Tien complete his transformation.

4. Yamcha vs Tien Shinhan: A Memorable Starting Battle

Opening the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament, Yamcha and Tien’s clash is not only dynamic but punctuated with "Wolf Hurricane," Yamcha’s theme song. This fight displays Yamcha's improvement while setting the stage for Tien's menacing prowess.

3. Goku vs Krillin: Best Friends and Rivals

Roshi's Testament

Despite their friendship, the semi-final match between Goku and Krillin is intense and witty. With clever tactics, the fight is both serious and entertaining, cementing their bond.

Master Roshi's reflections provide an emotional backdrop, acknowledging his students' growth and the martial world’s new era.

2. Goku vs Jackie Chun: The Formative Battle

The First Important Loss

The conclusion of the 21st World Martial Arts Tournament sees Goku test his mettle against his disguised master. It's a battle of wits, strength, and moral guidance, ending with Jackie Chun's iconic moon-destroying Kamehameha.

This fight reinforces humility in Goku, steering him towards continual improvement without neglecting his roots.

1. Goku vs Tien Shinhan: The Pinnacle of Pre-Piccolo Conflict

Tien's Redemption

The climax of the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament marks a narrative and action peak in early Dragon Ball. The fight between Goku and Tien showcases pristine animation and thoughtful storytelling as Tien’s character arc culminates.

Tien's decision to fight honorably against Goku concludes with a surprising end, further deepening the characters' development.