A Universe Lost: What If Jiren Had Won the Tournament of Power?
Exploring the Consequences of Universe 7's Defeat and Jiren's Ultimate Wish
Introduction: The Tournament That Could Have Changed Everything
The Tournament of Power was one of the most thrilling and intense arcs in DragonBall Super, pitting the strongest warriors from eight universes against each other in a battle for survival. Universe 7, led by Goku, faced off against powerful opponents, but none were as formidable as Jiren from Universe 11. Known for his overwhelming strength and unshakable resolve, Jiren pushed Goku and his team to their absolute limits. But what if the outcome had been different? What if Jiren had emerged victorious, securing the fate of Universe 11 while leaving Universe 7 to be erased? This article explores the potential aftermath of such a scenario, examining how Jiren's victory could have reshaped the DragonBall universe and the emotional impact of seeing Universe 7 lose.
The Power of Jiren: A Victory for Universe 11
Jiren's power was unparalleled in the Tournament of Power. His strength, combined with his singular focus on winning, made him the most formidable opponent Goku and his allies had ever faced. Jiren's philosophy of justice and his personal mission to resurrect his fallen mentor, Gicchin, fueled his determination. In this hypothetical scenario, Jiren's victory would have meant the erasure of Universe 7 and the triumph of Universe 11.
Jiren’s wish would have been the focal point of his victory. His ultimate goal was not to dominate or destroy but to resurrect his mentor. However, his victory would have come at a steep price—the complete erasure of Universe 7, including Goku, Vegeta, and the entire cast of beloved characters. The emotional weight of seeing these characters, who have been central to DragonBall for decades, vanish would have been immense. Fans around the world would have witnessed the end of an era, with the Z Fighters erased from existence in a blink.
Would Jiren Make the Same Wish?
The key question that arises in this scenario is whether Jiren would have used the Super Dragon Balls to resurrect his mentor, Gicchin, as originally intended, or if he would have followed Android 17's example and wished back all the erased universes. Jiren is a character defined by his sense of justice, but also by his deep-seated trauma from losing his mentor. His desire to bring Gicchin back was not just a personal wish, but a mission that shaped his entire existence.
However, Jiren is also a warrior with a strong moral code. The experience of the Tournament of Power, particularly his interactions with Goku and other fighters, may have softened his stance and made him more empathetic. There’s a possibility that Jiren, after realizing the gravity of erasing entire universes, could have been moved to make a selfless wish—one that restored all the erased universes, including Universe 7.
If Jiren had chosen to wish for the resurrection of all erased universes, it would have marked a significant character development for him. This act of compassion would have saved the DragonBall series from a potentially tragic end, allowing the story to continue and preserving the legacy of Universe 7. But had he chosen to resurrect Gicchin instead, the DragonBall universe would have faced a very different and possibly final outcome.
The Sadness of Universe 7’s Erasure
The erasure of Universe 7 would have been one of the most heartbreaking moments in DragonBall history. The emotional toll of watching Goku, Vegeta, and the others vanish, knowing that their universe had been erased due to their loss, would have been overwhelming. Fans who have followed these characters for years would have been left in shock, mourning the loss of their favorite heroes.
The Tournament of Power was not just about power levels and epic battles; it was also about the relationships between the characters and their determination to protect their universe. Universe 7’s erasure would have symbolized the end of those bonds and the ultimate failure of Goku and his team. The impact of such an event could have been so profound that it might have marked the end of the DragonBall series itself, leaving a void that would be difficult to fill.
What Might Have Been: A Different Path for DragonBall
Had Jiren won and resurrected all the erased universes, the DragonBall series could have taken a different path. This scenario would have opened the door for new storylines, with Jiren’s character taking on a more central role. The focus could have shifted to Universe 11, exploring Jiren’s journey with his resurrected mentor and the challenges they would face together. Goku and the others might have been granted a second chance, leading to new alliances and rivalries across the multiverse.
On the other hand, if Jiren had chosen to resurrect only Gicchin, the DragonBall universe as we know it would have been forever altered. The series could have ended on a somber note, with Universe 7’s story coming to a close and the spotlight shifting entirely to Universe 11. This outcome would have been a bold and unexpected move, challenging fans to accept a new direction for the series.
The Fragile Line Between Victory and Defeat
The possibility of Jiren winning the Tournament of Power presents a fascinating "what if" scenario that highlights the fragile line between victory and defeat in the DragonBall universe. While Jiren's victory would have showcased his incredible strength and determination, it would have also brought about the tragic erasure of Universe 7. The emotional impact of such an outcome would have been profound, potentially signaling the end of DragonBall as we know it.
However, the choices Jiren would have faced after his victory could have reshaped the series in unexpected ways. Whether through an act of compassion by wishing back all the erased universes or by choosing to fulfill his personal wish to resurrect Gicchin, Jiren’s actions would have determined the fate of the DragonBall universe. In the end, this scenario serves as a reminder of the high stakes that define the world of DragonBall, where the outcome of a single battle can change the course of history forever.
Was it not established Zeno was going to erase the winner if they didn't bring back the multiverse? In the animated continuity at least. The manga version didn't seem to care.