Goku is the main character of Dragon Ball. Although he is seen as a hero by many, there have been numerous moments where he has made questionable decisions. One of the most surprising choices was his confrontation with Raditz, Goku’s brother.
According to many, even though Goku never intended to harm his brother, if we look deeper, this could be one of the biggest mistakes he made in his life.
First, it’s important to note that Goku and Raditz are both sons of Bardock, a low-ranking Saiyan warrior who showed immense potential. Bardock always wished for his sons to grow up well and become great protectors. Goku has indeed become that, but what about Raditz?
From a certain perspective, Raditz is a product of his environment. When he arrives on Earth, Raditz seeks to find his lost brother, “Kakarot,” who is none other than Goku. Upon meeting his brother, Raditz explains everything about his origins and urges Goku to join the Saiyan army alongside Nappa and Vegeta. Despite his misguided actions and arrogance, Raditz is simply trying to bring Goku back to his Saiyan roots. Ultimately, however, he loses his life due to Goku’s own decisions.
What’s truly sad is that Goku has always shown pity towards his enemies, from Vegeta to Frieza, yet Raditz remains an exception. Goku offered Vegeta a second chance, allowing the Saiyan prince the opportunity to redeem himself and become a formidable ally on Earth. But with Raditz, Goku chose the drastic option to eliminate him, allowing Piccolo the time to charge his attack, culminating in both their deaths.
Imagine if Goku had taken a different approach with Vegeta and Raditz; the story might have unfolded entirely differently, with the two brothers joining forces as Bardock always hoped.
The Return of Raditz in Dragon Ball Super: Is it Possible?
Dragon Ball Super has resolved many lingering issues, one of which is shedding light on Raditz’s potential. In Chapter 83, we catch a glimpse into Bardock’s past as he fights to protect the planet Cereal, laying the groundwork for his sons’ futures.
This only adds to the notion that Raditz’s potential was never fully realized, and he might have been destined for greatness, much like his brother. After all, in Dragon Ball, death is rarely the final chapter. Raditz could very well find redemption in the afterlife. Who knows, one day Goku might have the chance to reunite with Raditz once more?
Raditz’s demise looms large in Goku’s heart. With all the revelations in Dragon Ball Super, it begs the question: is Goku’s decision to eliminate Raditz truly the biggest mistake of his life? And importantly, is there still time to rectify this error?
