Despite being one of the mightiest characters in Dragon Ball, Gohan cannot match the strength of these formidable foes.
Dragon Ball's success is partly due to a lineup of captivating characters, most of whom display unbelievable strength. The series always features powerful characters with universe-sized capabilities. Therefore, the strength of Goku and Gohan is continually tested.
5. Broly - Mightiest Super Saiyan Blue
Broly is one of the most controversial characters in Dragon Ball, officially debuting in Dragon Ball Super: Broly. The latest iteration of Broly has undergone certain changes to his backstory compared to Dragon Ball Z, but the Legendary Super Saiyan state remains more perilous than ever.
Only the combined effort of Super Saiyan Blue Gogeta can defeat Broly, and even then, victory is not guaranteed. Gohan acknowledges that he cannot overcome Broly in any version.
4. Goku Black
Dragon Ball Super introduces some of the most creatively crafted villains in the entire franchise. Goku Black remains an enigma in the anime as this malevolent clone of Goku almost overpowers all characters. Goku Black exhibits remarkable tenacity, especially after merging with his other half to become Fused Zamasu. Zamasu's fusion intertwines with Vegito Blue and Future Trunks, creating a challenge resolved by Omni-King Zeno. Gohan struggles to make a superior impression against Goku Black's overwhelming power.
3. Uub
Uub continues to be one of the most captivating plot points in Dragon Ball. Uub is the reincarnation of the villain Kid Buu, confirmed in the final episodes of Dragon Ball Z to play a significant role in the future. Goku departs to nurture and train Uub, also lending him his strength in crucial moments of the battle against Moro. Uub is still a child and hasn't comprehended his power fully, but it remains unlikely for him to defeat Gohan.
2. Jiren
Tournaments are a common occurrence in Dragon Ball, but the Super anime delves into a colossal battle involving dozens of the mightiest warriors from across the multiverse. Universe 7 aids most teams in completing the job quickly, but Universe 11 persists until the last minute, thanks to Jiren. Jiren, a stern Pride Trooper, becomes Goku's formidable adversary. Jiren's strength propels Goku into achieving Ultra Instinct for the first time, which proves insufficient to defeat Jiren.
1. Goku
Dragon Ball initially revolves around Goku's story, but the dynamic shifts in Dragon Ball Z. DBZ sets the stage for Gohan to surpass his father, yet his status as the strongest Saiyan only lasts for a brief period. Gohan's progress stalls after Buu arrives and becomes even more lackluster in Dragon Ball Super. Goku consistently reaches new heights, impressing even the gods, while Gohan's development remains much less pronounced.