Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball has crafted a rich and ever-evolving universe for more than forty years. The franchise isn’t afraid to expand its scope or even drastically change character details, like turning the main hero into an alien. This depth has created countless mysteries and lesser-known facts, from the origins of the Super Saiyan to how a fighter like Krillin can survive without a nose.
Here are 5 surprising Dragon Ball details that Akira Toriyama only shared in rare interviews:
Saibamen come from Saiyan biotechnology experiments
In Dragon Ball Z, Saiyan technology is often thought to be stolen tech. However, Toriyama’s Daizenshuu 7 guidebook reveals that Saibamen (the green creatures) were actually created through biotechnology by a Saiyan scientist. They were used for training or serving in conquests.
Recently, Dragon Ball DAIMA presented a conflicting theory where the great witch Marba claims Saibamen are creatures from the Demon Realm that she created and traded. Despite the contradiction, this opens the possibility that Saibamen have dual origins.
The origin of the Super Saiyan transformation lies in “S-Cells”
Initially, transforming into a Super Saiyan required an intense emotional trigger. Later, transformations became easier, especially for Goten, Trunks, and the Universe 6 Saiyans.
This convenience is explained by Toriyama’s concept of “S-Cells,” revealed in 2018. All Saiyans have S-Cells, and their number increases with power level. Notably, Saiyans with gentle personalities tend to have more S-Cells. This explains why Universe 6 Saiyans can master Super Saiyan more easily since they live in less violent environments.
Krillin breathes through his skin using cutaneous respiration
Krillin is one of the earliest Dragon Ball characters, and his design is simple enough that he has no nose. Originally thought to be a quirky design choice, it became a key plot point during his fight against Bacterian at the 21st World Martial Arts Tournament. Krillin’s lack of a nose prevents him from being affected by the opponent’s foul smell.
In an interview, Toriyama didn’t drop the joke but confirmed that Krillin has a unique physical trait allowing him to breathe through his skin, known as cutaneous respiration. This explanation clarifies how Krillin can still smell and breathe despite having no nose.
Mr. Satan was a skilled martial arts disciple
Mr. Satan is a controversial character, famous for his boastful attitude despite lacking real skills. While his strength pales compared to the Z Fighters, he is genuinely strong among ordinary humans. Saikyo Jump magazine revealed that Mr. Satan once dominated a dojo called “Satan Castle” and took the name after winning the Martial Arts Tournament.
A tragic detail connects Mr. Satan to the ruthless assassin Mercenary Tao. Mr. Satan and his master mocked Tao’s hairstyle at a bar, unaware of his reputation. In retaliation, Tao killed Mr. Satan’s master and severely injured him. This psychological trauma became the catalyst for Mr. Satan’s later fighting approach.
Majin Buu was never created but has always existed
Dragon Ball Z established that Majin Buu was created by Bibidi, Babidi’s ancestor. However, Akira Toriyama clarified Buu’s origin further: Buu is an ancient demon who has existed since time immemorial. He is an entity beyond creation, a pure, primal force of nature that cycles through destruction and dormancy. Bibidi merely perfected magic strong enough to awaken and control Buu, not create him.
Later, Dragon Ball DAIMA introduced a different view when witch Marba claimed she created Buu. It’s possible Marba’s claim relates to awakening and controlling Buu rather than direct creation.