Superman’s Real Dragon Ball Z Match Isn’t Goku – It’s Gohan, Says DC Artist Dan Mora

When people talk about Dragon Ball Z and superheroes, they often compare Goku to Superman. Both are super strong, can fly, shoot energy blasts, and were sent to Earth from another planet. But according to comic book artist Dan Mora, that comparison might be a little off.
At the DC: Celebrate Superman panel during C2E2 2025, Mora shared his thoughts on who really matches Superman in the Dragon Ball universe — and it’s not who you’d expect.
Mora said that Gohan is the true Superman of Dragon Ball universe and honestly, he makes a good point.
While Goku is always chasing the next big fight, trying to become stronger and pushing his limits, Superman isn’t like that. Superman fights only when he has to. He’s calm, kind, and puts others first. That sounds a lot more like Gohan, Goku’s son than Goku himself.
Gohan doesn’t love to fight. He wants peace and a normal life. But when danger comes, he steps up — just like Superman. He’s also one of the strongest characters in the Dragon Ball series, but he uses his power carefully and responsibly.
And then there’s the glasses.
Fans have noticed that Gohan’s look as the Great Saiyaman — complete with glasses and a more low-key personality — reminds them of Clark Kent, Superman’s regular human identity. Both characters hide their true strength behind a quiet, nerdy look. That’s no accident, and Mora picked up on that too.
Mora, who has worked on Superman and Justice League Unlimited comics, is a big fan of Dragon Ball Z. So when he makes this kind of comparison, it comes from someone who knows both worlds really well.
Now that he’s said it, it’s hard not to see the similarities. Gohan and Superman both value peace over power, and family over fame. They’re gentle giants who step in only when they truly need to — and that’s what makes them heroes.
So next time you think about who’s the Superman of the Dragon Ball universe, don’t jump straight to Goku. Dan Mora wants you to take a closer look at Gohan.
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