The man of the week

Once Goku's arch enemy, Piccolo is the second strongest being on Earth. He wears an extremely heavy cape that constantly trains his muscles. He is renowned for his powerful energy blasts as well as his ability to split into separate entities. Green like a lizard, Piccolo has the ability to regenerate limbs lost in battle, a capability that comes in handy more than once.

Originally from the faraway planet (although Piccolo doesn't know this for a long time), Piccolo begins battling Goku to rule the world. When the Saiyans arrive, however, Piccolo joins forces with Goku to defeat a greater evil.

At first their alliance is uneasy, but as the story progresses their bond grows stronger. Piccolo trains Goku's son, Gohan, for the upcoming battle against the Saiyans. Piccolo is unsure of his own motivations in assisting his onetime enemy and helping to raise his son. Gohan sees the good within Piccolo and their relationship brings this good out in him. In the showdown with Vegeta and Nappa, Piccolo saves Gohan's life by jumping in front of an energy blast.