Let’s face it: Dragon Ball Super Saiyan forms can get confusing. What started as a golden-haired, lightning-charged transformation in the Cell Games has spiraled into a dozen power-ups. But even among gods and fusions, Super Saiyan 2 (SSJ2) remains iconic. Today, we’re ranking the strongest SSJ2 users from underdogs to universe-shaking legends. Buckle up, because this list might surprise you!
Cabba (Universe 6 Gentle Warrior)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Super Episode 112
Cabba, Universe 6’s kind-hearted Saiyan, unlocked SSJ2 mid-battle against Vegeta. Though Vegeta taught him to harness rage, Cabba’s gentle nature held him back. While his SSJ2 helped in the Tournament of Power, he lacked the raw grit to outlast heavy hitters. Still, props for trying, right?
Why He’s Here: A solid start, but Cabba SSJ2 is more about potential than power.
Gotenks (The Fusion Flare-Up)
First SSJ2 Glimpse: Dragon Ball Z Episode 260
Gotenks (Goten + Trunks) teased SSJ2 for seconds before leaping to SSJ3. Imagine revving a car engine… then immediately flooring it. We never saw SSJ2 Gotenks fight, but his sheer cockiness hints at untapped power. Too bad he skipped straight to the flashy stuff!
Why It’s Underrated: A “what if?” moment fans still debate.
Gohan (The Original SSJ2 Prodigy)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Z Episode 184
Gohan’s SSJ2 debut vs. Cell? Chills. He was unstoppable… until adulthood hit. Post-Cell, Gohan slacked on training, letting his SSJ2 fade into mediocrity. But recent arcs (DBS: Super Hero) prove he’s still got sparks of that old fire.
Fan Takeaway: Peak Gohan’s SSJ2 could’ve ruled the multiverse. Sigh.
Caulifla (Universe 6 Cocky Brawler)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Super Episode 93
Taught by Cabba, Caulifla smashed through SSJ1 and SSJ2 like they were warm-ups. Her raw talent let her clash with Goku, though she needed Kale’s help to survive. Still, mastering SSJ2 in days? That’s pure Saiyan pride.
Why She Shines: Speed and attitude no training montage needed.
Vegeta (The Pride-Driven Powerhouse)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Z Episode 229
Vegeta’s SSJ2 debut against Goku was personal. Babidi’s mind control amped his rage, but even without it, Vegeta’s SSJ2 packs a punch. While slightly weaker than Goku’s, his sheer stubbornness makes him a nightmare to fight.
Key Moment: That iconic Majin Vegeta smirk. Enough said.
Goku (The SSJ2 Underdog)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Z Episode 229
Goku’s SSJ2 is often overshadowed by SSJ3 and Ultra Instinct. But let’s not forget: he held back against Majin Vegeta and still dominated. His SSJ2 mastery laid the groundwork for god-tier forms—proving even “basic” power-ups matter.
Why Fans Love It: A humble reminder of Goku roots.
Future Trunks (Rage Perfected)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Super Episode 49
Future Trunks didn’t just unlock SSJ2—he weaponized his grief. After witnessing his timeline’s destruction, his SSJ2 evolved into a rage-fueled force strong enough to spar with SSB Goku and Vegeta. Talk about trauma-to-power pipeline.
Standout Feat: Temporarily matching Super Saiyan Blue? Legendary.
1. Kefla (The Fusion Juggernaut)
First SSJ2 Debut: Dragon Ball Super Episode 115
Kefla (Caulifla + Kale) isn’t just SSJ2 she’s SSJ2 plus Legendary Super Saiyan energy. This fusion overpowered a drained Goku in SSB form, forcing him to tap into Ultra Instinct. Her SSJ2 isn’t just strong—it’s borderline divine.
Why She’s #1: She made Goku sweat. Need we say more?
Final Thoughts
While SSJ2 isn’t the strongest form anymore, it’s a nostalgic powerhouse that shaped Dragon Ball’s legacy. From Gohan’s heroic debut to Kefla’s fusion chaos, these warriors prove even “mid-tier” transformations can steal the show.
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