With the news of Akira Toriyama’s passing, the manga and anime worlds are mourning the loss of an icon. Toriyama, the creative genius behind Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, has left a lasting legacy transcending borders. In an emotional coincidence, Solo Leveling Episode 9, You’ve Been Hiding Your Skills, featured a Dragon Ball Super reference. This subtle nod to Toriyama's work is a touching tribute to the late legendary mangaka.
Viewers were quick to spot Sung Jinwoo's homage to Son Goku as he battled Kang Taeshik in the D-Rank dungeon in Solo Leveling Episode 9. Despite being known as a respected inspector under the Korean Hunters Association's Surveillance Team, Taeshik reveals his true nature as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, harboring a desire to kill humans rather than monsters. Unfortunately, Jinwoo and his party learn of this too late, after Taeshik has already killed five of their members.
As the battle unfolds between E-Rank and B-Rank hunters, Sung Jinwoo, despite Taeshik's belief in his weak abilities, reveals his true strength. In a pivotal moment, just as Jinwoo is about to deliver the final blow, he performs Goku’s iconic warm-up technique, Goku Hops, from Dragon Ball Super: Broly. Though likely completed before Toriyama’s passing, this scene takes on a poignant significance in light of the news, further honoring the late mangaka's legacy.
Dragon Ball Creator Akira Toriyama Died at 68
The official X (formerly Twitter) page of Dragon Ball announced the death of Toriyama on March 8, though he died on March 1 due to acute subdural hematoma. He was 68 years old. His demise came very untimely as he still had several works in development and still wanted a lot of things to achieve. Despite that, they’re confident that no one can forget the manga creator’s contribution to the manga world with his several successful arts and works.
“Thanks to the support of so many people around the world, he has been able to continue his creative activities for over 45 years,” the announcement reads. “We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come.”
Family and a few relatives held a funeral service for Toriyama. And to follow his wishes, they refrained from accepting flowers, condolence gifts, visitations, offerings, and others. The family also asked for privacy during this difficult time. Plans for a commemorative gathering haven’t been decided yet.
Solo Leveling’s Dragon Ball reference makes a lot of fans emotional, considering its connection to the late Toriyama. Though this may happen accidentally, viewers give a big salute to the anime’s creators. Truly, the anime/manga world has lost a significant figure.
