Who is uub in dragon ball gt

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Last updated: April 17, 2026

Quick Answer: Uub is a character introduced in the final chapter of Akira Toriyama's original Dragon Ball manga, debuting in chapter 518 in 1995. He is the reincarnation of Kid Buu, transformed by Goku into a good-hearted boy to help maintain peace on Earth.

Key Facts

Uub first appeared in Dragon Ball chapter 518, published in 1995
He is the reincarnation of the evil entity Kid Buu
Goku personally trains Uub at the end of the original manga
In Dragon Ball GT, Uub fuses with the evil demon-turned-ally, Majuub
Uub appears in Dragon Ball GT episode 22, titled 'The Return of Uub'
His name is derived from 'Mu', meaning 'nothing' in Japanese

Overview

Uub is a pivotal character originating from the final arc of Akira Toriyama's original Dragon Ball manga, which concluded in 1995. Introduced as the reincarnated form of the destructive demon Kid Buu, Uub represents a symbolic transition from chaos to peace, shaped by Goku’s vision for a better future.

Though absent from the original Dragon Ball Z anime, Uub gained expanded significance in Dragon Ball GT, a non-canon sequel series produced by Toei Animation. His role bridges the original series' conclusion with new adventures, emphasizing themes of redemption and mentorship.

Uub debuted in chapter 518 of the Dragon Ball manga, released in Weekly Shōnen Jump in April 1995, as Goku’s final opponent in the World Martial Arts Tournament.
Kid Buu’s reincarnation was orchestrated by Goku, who asked King Yemma to reincarnate the defeated demon as a good human to restore balance and provide a new training partner.
His name 'Uub' is a play on 'Mu', the Japanese word for 'nothing', mirroring Buu’s original name and emphasizing his blank-slate potential.
In Dragon Ball GT, Uub returns in episode 22, 'The Return of Uub', where he battles Goku after being corrupted by dark energy, showcasing his untapped power.
He later fuses with the demon lord Dabura’s minion to become Majuub, a powerful ally who aids Goku in the Super 17 and Shadow Dragon arcs.

How It Works

In the Dragon Ball universe, reincarnation and spiritual transformation are governed by divine entities like King Yemma. Uub’s existence hinges on this metaphysical system, where souls are reborn based on moral balance and cosmic need.

Reincarnation Process: After Kid Buu’s defeat, Goku requests that his soul be reborn as a human child to maintain Earth’s peace; King Yemma complies, creating Uub with no memory of his past life.
Training by Goku: At the manga’s end, Goku takes Uub to the afterlife to train him, signaling a passing of the torch from one generation to the next.
Power Progression: Uub starts weak but possesses immense latent potential, growing stronger through emotional triggers and combat experience, especially in GT.
Fusion with Evil: In GT, Uub absorbs dark energy and temporarily transforms into Majuub, a demon-enhanced warrior, before regaining control with Goku’s help.
Symbolic Role: Uub embodies the theme of redemption, showing that even the most destructive beings can be reborn with purpose and virtue.
Non-Canon Status: While Uub is canon in the manga, his GT portrayal is non-canon, developed independently of Akira Toriyama’s direct input.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of Uub’s portrayal across different Dragon Ball continuities:

Aspect	Original Manga	Dragon Ball GT
Canon Status	Fully canon	Non-canon
First Appearance	Chapter 518 (1995)	Episode 22 (2003)
Character Role	Future student of Goku	Active fighter and ally
Power Level	Low, but high potential	High, especially as Majuub
Design Influence	Based on Kid Buu	Young martial artist with demon traits

The table highlights key differences in Uub’s narrative function. While the manga presents him as a hopeful successor, GT adapts him into a dynamic combatant, reflecting the series’ focus on action over philosophical closure.

Why It Matters

Uub’s character underscores enduring themes in the Dragon Ball franchise—redemption, legacy, and the cyclical nature of strength and wisdom. His journey from destroyer to disciple adds emotional depth to Goku’s final arc.

Legacy of Goku: Uub symbolizes the continuation of Goku’s martial arts lineage, ensuring Earth has future protectors even after the Z Fighters age.
Redemption Arc: As a reformed version of Kid Buu, Uub proves that even the most evil beings can change through guidance and compassion.
Influence on Storytelling: His introduction inspired later characters like Jiren and Granolah, who also explore themes of reincarnation and moral complexity.
Popularity in Media: Despite GT’s non-canon status, Uub remains a fan favorite, appearing in video games like Dragon Ball Xenoverse and Super.
Thematic Consistency: Uub reinforces the series’ core message: true strength lies in protecting others, not in destruction.
Cultural Impact: His name and design reflect Japanese philosophical concepts, adding depth to the franchise’s global appeal.

Ultimately, Uub serves as both a narrative bridge and a symbolic figure, enriching the Dragon Ball mythos across multiple continuities.