When Frieza Realized Goku Was the Real Deal

The realization hit Frieza in the stomach for the first time, a fateful moment in the epic saga of Dragon Ball Z. After Goku’s legendary kamehameha attack amplified by the Kaioken technique, Frieza’s invincible facade began to crack.

The Epic Speech and Frieza's Shock

After the Kamehameha attack with the Kaioken technique, Goku’s sheer power shocked Frieza. In his words, 'How did he become THIS powerful? I almost DIED.' This was the first attack by Goku that truly wounded Frieza, marking a turning point in the battle.

Despite Frieza's initial shock, he continued to attack Goku without pause. However, it soon became evident that Goku was nearly out of stamina, indicating that this might be Frieza's last real challenge. This realization caused Frieza's initial pang of realization to turn into a growing respect for Goku's abilities.

The Power Dynamics and Frieza’s Superiority Complex

At the time, Frieza was considered the most feared warrior in the universe. His base power level was 530,000, placing him above most of his adversaries. Even the Z Fighters, who were a formidable force, were far from Frieza’s power level.

The power levels of various races are as follows:

Earthlings: 80 abnormally strong superhumans, 120 elite superhuman fighters, 5 average humans, and 10 average strong humans like athletes. Z Fighters: 1,100-1,800 fighters. Saiyans: 1,000 on average, 3,000 on average elite saiyans, and 10,000 abnormally strong saiyans (including Bardock, Broly, Vegeta, and King Vegeta). Namekians: 1,000-3,000 warriors. Random Strong Alien Species: Appule Race (1,000-6,000), Cui (18,000), and Red Devil Alien Race (10,000).

In short, with a power level of 530,000, Frieza had no competition. His only encounters with threats were with powerful entities like Buu and even potential maisu like Beerus.

This superiority complex was a justified one. The idea of rest and relaxation made sense, given that no one posed a true threat to him.

The Final Form and Frieza's Acknowledgment

When Goku powered up to his final form, Frieza was faced with an unprecedented challenge. This transformation was significant, possibly for the first time in over 200 years. The subsequent battle was intense and memorable.

After Goku declared he was done fighting and scolded Frieza like a child, forbidding him from being a tyrant again, Frieza turned base form and flew away. This moment marked the full acknowledgment of Goku’s immense strength. The psychological impact on Frieza was evident; it enraged him deeply, showing that Goku's power had truly shaken him to his core.

In summary, while Frieza's realization that Goku was a problem came earlier, the moment of true acknowledgment and respect came after Goku’s final form and the ensuing dialogue. This realization transformed Frieza's perception of Goku, marking a significant turning point in their battle and the story of Dragon Ball Z.