Today, a well-known Twitter user surprised the otaku community by sharing an interview with an assistant to Akira Toriyama, published in a local newspaper in Japan. In this revealing interview, the assistant expressed: «What I consider to have managed to inherit the true DNA of Dragon Ball is One Piece. Oda doesn't copy scenarios and expressions, but digests all of it.». In other words, the assistant sees “One Piece” as the true successor to “Dragon Ball”.

The assistant explained that Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, doesn't just imitate the style and characteristics of Dragon Ball, but adapts them and makes them his own, creating something new and unique. This interpretation highlights a deep connection between both series, which have always shared a close relationship and mutual respect.

It is known that Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, has always recognized and admired Eiichiro Oda's talent. Oda-sensei, for his part, has been a fervent Dragon Ball fan since its inception. This mutual admiration has been evident in numerous collaborations and tributes between the two franchises over the years.

During the 80s and 90s, “Dragon Ball” dominated the manga and anime scene, establishing itself as an iconic work that marked an era. However, from 2000 onwards, “One Piece” began to stand out as a generational series that would continue the legacy of success and popularity of its predecessor.

Although Akira Toriyama is no longer with us to confirm these words, his assistant suggests that he also saw in “One Piece” the ability to expand and evolve the successful model that began with Goku's adventures. This recognition of Dragon Ball's influence and legacy on Eiichiro Oda's work is a testament to Toriyama's lasting impact on the world of manga and anime.

The fan community of both series welcomed this news with enthusiasm, celebrating the continuation of a legacy that has left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Source: @sandman_AP on Twitter