Why Didn’t Vegeta Train with Gohan When He Was a Kid?

Often, fans of the Dragon Ball series ask the question: why didn’t Vegeta train with Gohan when he was a child? The answer to this question, as with many in the Dragon Ball universe, can be found within the show itself. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this absence of training and delve into the nurturing relationships that shaped both Vegeta and Gohan.

Vegeta’s Training Roster

Vegeta, originally a Saiyan warrior, once sought mastery over others and training partners were not hard to come by. However, when Gohan was a child, the best trainers for him were Goku and Piccolo. Both Goku and Piccolo were significantly more experienced and effective trainers than Vegeta, who was still a young Saiyan when Gohan was around.

By the Second Half of the Freeza Saga, Gohan had come close to Vegeta in strength. In the Cell Saga, Gohan surpassed Vegeta, and even in the Buu Saga, Vegeta barely managed to surpass Gohan. It is worth noting that this is the closest Vegeta ever came to catching up to, or surpassing, Gohan in strength.

Vegeta’s Absence and Goku’s Influence

However, Vegeta did not train with Gohan as a child because he was traveling to Earth during this period. He was likely occupied with his own training and missions, leaving the responsibility of Gohan's growth to Goku and Piccolo. This setup was not accidental; both Goku and Piccolo were capable mentors, ensuring that Gohan received the necessary guidance.

Gohan’s Motivation and Personal Growth

Gohan, on the other hand, did not train with Vegeta because he was more inclined towards scholarly pursuits, as instructed by his mother. Gohan’s desire to learn and understand the world led him to focus on his studies and develop a wide range of skills beyond just fighting strength. Additionally, Gohan had a strong relationship with his little brother, but his primary motivation was to honor his mother's wishes and become a scholar.

The Vegeta–Gohan Dynamic

It is also important to consider the relationship dynamics between Vegeta and Gohan. Vegeta was still trying to catch up to Goku in strength, and he focused more on his own ambitions and training. At the time, Vegeta did not consider it necessary to spend time training with another young Saiyan, even one as promising as Gohan.

Furthermore, in the show, it is mentioned that Goku had a unique ability to turn his enemies into friends by beating them. This was evident in his relationship with Piccolo, where Piccolo initially saw Gohan as a potential best friend. Piccolo lacked the experience and home environment necessary for a healthy friendship. However, Gohan played the crucial role in giving Piccolo a stable home and companionship, something Piccolo had been lacking. This relationship was a form of growth for both Piccolo and Gohan, without the need for formal training.

Vegeta’s Growth and Family

Regarding Vegeta, his wife and children were the ones who made him a better person, as he does not need Gohan. Vegeta’s transformation came from his family, not a training partner. His deep bond with his wife and children brought about significant personal growth. Such familial connections were more influential in shaping his character than any formal training or martial arts techniques.

The Z-Fighters and Their Motivations

Another aspect that sometimes gets overlooked is the fact that they are not officially called the “Z-Fighters.” They are a group of warriors who have come together for the greater good and to protect Earth from threats. Gohan’s role in this group is not as a fighter but rather as a scholar and a protector. His legacy has influenced the group more through his actions and teachings than through formal training.

Lastly, it is crucial to understand that each character in the Dragon Ball series has their unique journey and path to growth. Gohan, Vegeta, Goku, and the others each play their part in the story's development, and their relationships and actions shape the narrative in different ways. While training with Vegeta would have been an incredible opportunity for Gohan, his own path and motivation for growth were critical to his success and the trajectory of the characters around him.