Warning: Contains spoilers for the finale of Dragon Ball DaimaDragon Ball Daimahas officially come to its conclusion, marking the end of creator Akira Toriyama’s final vision for Goku and the rest of Earth’s heroes in his iconic series. Episode #20, titled “Maximum”, features the climactic bout betweenSuper Saiyan 4 Gokuand the evil ruler of the Demon Realm, Gomah. Despite his incredible power-up and familiar, flashy transformation, Goku couldn’t quite put the king down for the count. However,Dragon Ballhas always placed importance on teamwork and friendship, andthe final blow was eventually delivered by a character no one could have expected.
With the Evil Third Eye knocked out Gomah’s forehead, the ruler became powerless in the face of Goku and company, and was sealed away in a magical prison by Arinsu. The throne now empty, the cast pondered who would take their place as the rightful leader of the Demon Realm, when the elder Namekian Neva suggestedit should go to whoever defeated the previous ruler. With that, it was decided only one character was the correct choice: Majin Kuu.
Majin Kuu Is the Demon Realm’s Newest King
The Fan-Favorite Goofball Has Inherited the Throne
When Majin Kuu was first introduced inDragon Ball Daima, fans pondered whetherthe anime’s latest take on Buu might be the series' main antagonist. ConsideringDaima’s placement in the timeline coming just after the battle with Kid Buu, it would have only made sense for an updated version of the big pink terror to eclipse every other character in strength. Akira Toriyama, on the other hand, having always kept his gag manga tools handy, subverted viewers' expectations bymaking Kuu a comic relief character.
His goofy demeanor and painted-on innocent smilemade Majin Kuu an instant fan-favorite, and although he wasn’t an overly impressive fighter, he was proficient in other tasks like running errands. By the time the credits rolled onDragon Ball Daima, however, Kuu got the last laugh. After smacking Gomah on the back of the head with Arinsu’s book of magic, the Third Eye came loose from his forehead, andthe lovable goofball Majin was the battle’s victor and rightful king of the Demon Realm.
Akira Toriyama’s Comedic Writing Came Through in Dragon Ball Daima
The Legendary Creator’s Gag Manga Roots Gave Daima a Different Flavor
Dragon Ball Daima, throughout its concise 20-episode run, is the perfect blend ofDragon Ball’s adventurous roots and the action which defined the original series in its second half. Though what sets the anime apart from others in the franchise is its increased focus on comedic elements.Akira Toriyama made a name for himself writingDr. Slump, an incredibly popular gag manga inShōnen Jump. WhileDragon Ballhas always been lighthearted in nature, the artist made use of his gag manga roots inDaima.
It’s Official: The Biggest Anime Episode of 2025 Belongs to Dragon Ball Daima
Dragon Ball DAIMA secures its spot as the highest-rated anime episode of 2025 so far on IMDb, easily surpassing the series' top scores of the past.
Containing several of the franchise’s funniest moments, likeVegeta’s refusal to give up bath timewith his wife,Dragon Ball Daimaleans into comedy to great effect throughout. And before the series could come to a close, Akira Toriyama left fans with one final gag by placing Majin Kuu on the Demon Realm throne. The series' legendary creator passed away in March 2024, and it’s unknown whatthe future ofDragon Ballwill have in store without Toriyama at the helm. Though it’s certainthe series won’t be the same without his sense of humor.
Dragon Ball DAIMA
Cast
Dragon Ball Daima sees Goku and his allies inexplicably shrunk into miniature forms, prompting a journey to the Demon Realm. This animated adventure, part of the Dragon Ball franchise, explores their mission to solve the mystery and restore their original statures. Released in October 2024.
