Vegeta's Jealousy of Goku's Ultra Instinct: A Comprehensive Analysis

Vegeta, one of the main characters in the Dragon Ball Z universe, experiences a complex range of emotions when it comes to Goku's Ultra Instinct. This jealousy is particularly evident in various arcs of the show, especially the Tournament of Power, where his desires for strength and rivalry with Goku are magnified.

Jealousy and Rivalry in the Tournament of Power Arc

During the Tournament of Power arc, Vegeta's jealousy over Goku's Ultra Instinct is incredibly visible. Vegeta struggles to reach Goku's level, which fuels his motivation to surpass Goku and achieve his own form of strength. This intense rivalry is a significant aspect of Vegeta's character development, showing his deep-seated desire to prove his worth and grow stronger. His intense training regimen and his internal struggle to match Goku highlight this aspect of his journey throughout the series.

Beyond Jealousy: Competition and Acceptance

While Vegeta is indeed jealous of Goku's achievement with Ultra Instinct, his character is more nuanced. He is motivated by the desire to compete and be the best, leading him to push his limits and seek his own powerful form, which he terms a "limit-breaker." This demonstrates his willingness to evolve and surpass others, making his jealousy a fuel for his growth rather than a hindrance.

In the later arcs, such as the World Championship arc, Vegeta's journey shows a deeper acceptance and mutual acknowledgment of their rivalry. He is not just competing for supremacy but also respecting Goku's power. His ability to face Jiren with a new level of power, going beyond Super Saiyan Blue, further underscores his determination and growth. This also introduces debates about whether Vegeta's new evolution might be stronger than Goku's Super Saiyan Blue with Kaioken x 20, which adds another layer of complexity to the competition between the two.

Friendship and Acceptance

Despite his intense jealousy, Vegeta's character also evolves to accept Goku not just as his rival but also as a friend. When Goku surpasses him, Vegeta often shows a mix of frustration and pride. This duality is reflected in his acceptance of Goku's power without begrudging it. In fact, some moments show Vegeta being genuinely happy for Goku's power-ups, knowing that Goku's growth challenges and elevates him, both as an opponent and a friend.

Vegeta's relentless training and his achievements, such as mastering the Powered Up Super Saiyan Blue form, demonstrate his remarkable focus and determination. This further solidifies his role as Goku's fiercest rival and the most significant character he has ever faced in the series. Regardless of the gap in power, Goku will never have a better competitor or friend than Vegeta.

Conclusion

Vegeta's jealousy of Goku's Ultra Instinct is a testament to his character's depth and complexity. It drives him to push his limits, grow stronger, and evolve as a character. While his rivalry with Goku is palpable, his journey also shows profound acceptance and friendship. Vegeta's story in Dragon Ball Z is about more than just power; it is about determination, growth, and the enduring spirit of competition that motivates both fighters and friends.