For Dragon Ball fans, the bond between Goku and Vegeta is one of anime’s most fascinating relationships. What started as a bitter rivalry between a cheerful warrior and a prideful prince has slowly evolved into… something else. But does that “something else” qualify as friendship? Let’s dive into their dynamic—and why Vegeta might see Goku as his only friend.

Vegeta Lonely Path: Why Goku Might Be His Only True Friend

Let’s face it—Vegeta hasn’t exactly been hosting friendship mixers these past twenty years. Since arriving on Earth, the Saiyan Prince has kept to himself, rarely mingling with the Z-Fighters outside of battles. Sure, he’s fought alongside Piccolo, trained with Whis, and even tolerated Krillin’s jokes, but when the dust settles, there’s only one person Vegeta chooses to spend time with: Goku.

Here’s why:

• Shared Obsession: Both live for the thrill of battle. While others train for duty or protection, Goku and Vegeta train purely to surpass their limits.
• Saiyan Legacy: They’re the last full-blooded Saiyans (until Broly arrived), creating a unique understanding of each other’s pride and drive.
• No Judgment Zone: Vegeta can drop his “royal act” around Goku. Remember when Vegeta admitted Goku was better? That’s trust you won’t see with anyone else.

But here’s the kicker: Vegeta doesn’t have other friends. His “allies” like Piccolo or Cabba are respected, but not equals. Even Future Trunks, his own son, gets more of a grudging nod than a heartfelt bond.

Goku Side: Sorry Vegeta, You’re Not His #1

While Vegeta might see Goku as his closest confidant, the feeling isn’t mutual. Goku heart has always had room for two lifelong friends: Krillin and Bulma.

• Krillin: Goku’s first friend, training partner, and the guy who inspired his first Super Saiyan transformation. Their bond is unshakable—even death couldn’t break it.
• Bulma: The genius who dragged Goku into his first adventure. She’s family to him, and her opinion matters more than Vegeta’s (just ask Whis).

Goku enjoys sparring with Vegeta, but when he wants to relax? He’s grabbing lunch with Krillin or crashing Bulma’s parties. Vegeta may be his strongest ally, but emotionally, he’s playing third fiddle.

Vegeta Real Best Friends? His Family.

If you forced Vegeta to pick a “best friend,” he’d probably scoff… then quietly name Bulma or Trunks. Here’s why family trumps Goku:

• Bulma: Their relationship started rocky but grew into a partnership filled with mutual respect (and sarcasm). Unlike Goku and Chi-Chi, Vegeta and Bulma actually like hanging out.
• Trunks & Bulla: Vegeta’s softer side emerges around his kids. Future Trunks’ arc showed Vegeta’s hidden parental pride, and Bulla’s toddler antics? Even the Prince of Saiyans can’t stay grumpy around her.

For someone raised in a world where weakness meant death, Vegeta’s family represents safety—a place where he doesn’t have to prove anything.

The Verdict: Comrades, Not Confidants

So, is Goku Vegeta’s best friend? Yes… by default. Vegeta’s pride and solitary nature mean he’ll never build bonds like Goku’s with Krillin or Bulma. But their rivalry-turned-partnership is its own unique brand of friendship—one built on fists, not feelings.

Meanwhile, Goku’s heart belongs to his oldest pals. Vegeta may be his favorite sparring partner, but when it comes to true friendship, Krillin and Bulma still reign supreme.

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