Dragon Ball Superremains a dominant force even during its hiatus, with fans eagerly waiting for what comes next after the explosive events of the Granolah and Super Hero arcs. With the manga setting up a bold new chapter andthe anime rumored to return soon, expectations are very high, and so is the pressure to deliver something newwhile honoring the franchise’s legacy. Now more than ever, the series is perfectly positioned to bring in long-requested fan favorites.
With the next arc likely focusing on Black Frieza,it could lead to a long-overdue development and officially introduce Cooler into the canon timeline.As Frieza’s brother and a memorable villain from theDragon Ball Zmovies, Cooler is easily one of the most compelling characters yet to appear in the series’ official continuity. Considering recent franchise developments, it’s not too far-fetched that Cooler is the next to become canon.
Dragon Ball Super Left off on One of Its Biggest Cliffhangers Yet
Frieza Showed off a Powerful New Transformation Before the Series Went on Hiatus
Dragon Ball Superendedits Granolah the Survivor arc with a twist that still has fans buzzing. Just as Goku and Vegeta begin to show progress with their respective new forms, Ultra Instinct and Ultra Ego,Black Frieza arrives on the battlefield and completely shifts the scales of power.Within seconds, he not only mercilessly defeats Gas but also effortlessly knocks out both Saiyans with a single hit, making their growth seem almost meaningless. Frieza revealed that he spent ten years training in a Hyperbolic Time Chamber, giving himself a monumental edge in strength, technique, and control.
Frieza left with a clear message that he had re-entered the game at a level far beyond anyone’s expectations. After this shocking reveal, the manga shifts focus to the Super Hero adaptation, bringing Gohan and Piccolo back into the spotlight with their own new forms. As of Chapter #104, the manga hasn’t revisited Black Frieza, but it’s confirmed that he will return to the series. Whether it’s in the next arc or later on,it’s clear that the stakes are higher and the threat Frieza poses is undeniable.
Cooler Might Finally Become Canon in Dragon Ball Super’s Next Arc
With Black Frieza Soon To Take Center Stage, Cooler’s Introduction Is More Likely Than Ever
WithDragon Ball Superentering a new era, thechance for Cooler to finally become part of the official lineup has never seemed more realistic.As the series looks for ways to raise the stakes and add more powerful characters, Cooler stands out as a natural next choice. His connections to Frieza, along with his unique potential as a rival and villain, make him a perfect fit for the current storyline. Given how the franchise has increasingly included noncanonical characters into the canon, like Broly andpossibly soon Android 21, Cooler’s reintroduction wouldn’t be unprecedented.
Along with the fact that Toyotaro, the lead illustrator and co-writer ofDragon Ball Super, gaveCooler a significant rolein the spin-off seriesSuper Dragon Ball Heroes, where he received a new transformation into Golden Cooler, Toyotaro’s familiarity with the character and interest in exploring alternate formsmake the villain’s inclusion in the main timeline feel much more plausible.If the next arc truly aims to escalate the stakes and introduce more powerful characters, Cooler is the most logical and exciting step in that direction.
Cooler Is One of Dragon Ball Z’s Most Iconic Movie Villains
Cooler Received Two Dragon Ball Z Films and Roles in Filler and Spin-Offs
Cooler made his debut inDragon Ball Z: Cooler’s Revenge, one of the most memorable films in the franchise, followed by a second movie,The Return of Cooler. Introduced as Frieza’s older brother, Cooler arrived on Earth seeking revenge for his brother’s death and the stain it left on his family’s legacy. Unlike Frieza, who was arrogant and quick-tempered,Cooler carried himself with cold, calculated precision.He didn’t want to destroy Goku just for retribution, but to make a statement. With a moreadvanced form than Frieza’sat the time, Cooler was a genuine threat and an unforgettable villain.
“I never did like him. And now he goes and disgraces my father and I by getting killed by a Saiyan. Father always spoiled you rotten, you little brat!”
– Cooler
What made Cooler stand out wasn’t just his power; it was how he wielded it. Cooler exhibited a tactical, almost militaristic control over his forces and took pride in maintaining a level of discipline that Frieza seemed to lack.His attitude and personality suggested a higher degree of maturity and strategic thinking, which made his ruthlessness all the more chilling. While Frieza’s evil often came from a desire to dominate and humiliate, Cooler was much colder and more calculated, rather than a tyrant who loudly and openly reveled in the suffering of others.
As two powerful characters who share a bloodline and a desire for dominance, yet have distinct personalities and approaches to power,Cooler and Frieza are two sides of the same coin.With Frieza having unlocked a new form and becoming a top-tier threat, Cooler’s inclusion not only shifts the balance of power further but also creates a strikingly balanced yet contrasting dynamic. Whether they ally or clash, the contrast between the two characters offers a wealth of storytelling potential that could lead the series into exciting new territory.
Cooler’s Return Would Be a Game-Changer for Dragon Ball Super
Cooler Has So Much Narrative Potential That Not Exploring Him Would Be a Shame
Introducing Cooler intoDragon Ball’smain continuity would do more than just introduce another powerful fighter. As a character connected to the series’ most prominent and recurring villain, Cooler provides a perfect opportunity to explore Frieza’s family legacy andset the stage for the biggest conflict the series has ever seen.He has the potential to expand the series’ lore and generate excitement, while also giving fans a deeper understanding of his character. With Black Frieza positioned to be the next major arc, there’s no better time tobring Cooler back.
Cooler has always been a popular character, and hisintroduction into the main canon would not only be exciting but also long overdue.Whether as an ally to Frieza or as another formidable threat, Cooler has the potential to significantly shift the balance of power. With Black Frieza suspected to be on the same level as the gods of destruction, adding Cooler with new, powerful forms of his own would raise the stakes inDragon Ball Superlike never before.