As a Saiyan warrior with seemingly limitless growth, Goku is the leading hero in Dragon Ball. He’s become an anime icon whose power and heart have propelled him into legendary status. Due to his power, Goku is often compared to other characters who may match or potentially outmatch his power, sparking heated conversation among fans.

Naturally, Superman often enters that conversation. As DC’s ultimate hero, the Man of Steel shares many similarities with Goku, including his alien roots, unyielding convictions, and, of course, earth-shattering power. Debates over who would win in a fight have gone on for years, but what fans never expected is that Goku may not be the rival DC thinks Superman truly deserves. There’s another Dragon Ball character who mirrors Superman in ways Goku never could, and the fact is, he’s absolutely a better rival for Superman.

Goku Is Not Superman’s Greatest Dragon Ball Rival

Another Character in Dragon Ball Has Greater Potential and Fits Better as Superman’s Rival

Goku and Superman have been seen as natural rivals for decades. As two powerhouses with heroic ideals and limitless strength, it's hard not to compare them. Yet, beneath the surface, their motivations don’t quite align with one another. Goku is driven by the thrill of battle and constantly strives to get stronger, unlocking new transformations against other powerful opponents. Superman, on the other hand, values peace over power and fights only when it’s absolutely necessary. This leads some to question whether Goku truly is Superman’s best match. According to comic book artist Dan Mora, Superman’s best match is actually Gohan.

Gohan has always stood apart in the Dragon Ball franchise. From the start of his journey, he’s been portrayed as a character with immense hidden power that has the potential to outshine Goku’s. He doesn’t crave conflict and instead seeks a peaceful life. However, when the moment calls for it, Gohan is able to unleash strength that stuns even his own allies. Both his resolve and depth as a character have led fans and creators like Mora to see him as a closer mirror to Superman. Gohan is the hero who truly reflects the Man of Steel’s spirit and power.

Gohan Is Superman’s True Rival, According to Comic Artist Dan Mora

The Two Share Many Similarities and Are a Perfect Match

During C2E2 2025, at the DC: Celebrate Superman , Dan Mora surprised fans by naming Gohan rather than Goku as Superman’s true counterpart and rival in the Dragon Ball universe. Mora, who is Superman and Justice League Unlimited, brought around a unique perspective as both a DC insider and a Dragon Ball Z fan. His claim flipped the debate on its head, and the best part is that it makes total sense. Gohan and Superman share more than just strength. They fight because they must rather than seek glory or greater strength.

Dan Mora’s perspective reframes the conversation around Superman’s anime rival, shifting the spotlight away from Goku and allowing Gohan to take a leading role in the debate.

Unlike Goku, who thrives on combat and self-improvement, Gohan and Superman share a sense of restraint and a preference for peace. Both characters have immense untapped potential and only unleash their full power when the moment calls for it. They both have dual lives, with Gohan who dons the Great Saiyaman persona, and Superman as Clark Kent. Their alter egos alone are proof that they each choose humility over recognition. Mora’s insight into who Superman’s true rival and counterpart is elevates Gohan’s status as the hero who truly deserves to be at the center of these debates.

While Goku may always be the face of Dragon Ball, it’s Gohan who embodies the qualities that make Superman an icon. Both characters wield unimaginable power yet choose to lead humble lives. Dan Mora’s perspective reframes the conversation around Superman’s anime rival, shifting the spotlight away from Goku and allowing Gohan to take a leading role in the debate. Considering their similarities, Gohan is the most Superman-like hero that Dragon Ball has.

Source: Comicbasics.com