The Rise of Saitama’s Power
Fans of One-Punch Man have always been in awe of Saitama’s unmatched strength. However, Chapter #169 took it to an unprecedented level. In a fierce battle against Garou on a moon of Jupiter, Saitama showcases his rapidly evolving strength. Though Cosmic Garou initially keeps up by imitating Saitama’s moves, it doesn’t take long for Saitama to outstrip him. A significant turn of events occurs when Garou, realizing he has been deceived by a higher power, hands over his ultimate technique to Saitama. This technique, a time-reversing causality maneuver, transforms the dynamics of power in the manga world.
The Zero Punch: A Game Changer
The brilliance of the Zero Punch lies in its deceptive simplicity. Saitama’s newfound ability allows him to deliver a punch even before initiating it. For those trying to grasp the sheer absurdity of it, this punch defies the laws of physics and time. Saitama’s application of the Zero Punch to “past Garou” proves its speed is unparalleled.
Dragon Ball’s Goku, despite his formidable feats of speed, might find himself outmatched here. Goku’s speed achievements, like countering Hit’s Time-Skip or teleporting across galaxies instantly, are phenomenal. His infamous journey over Snake Way, estimated at 11,000 mph by fans, further attests to his incredible velocity. However, even such benchmarks falter when juxtaposed against the instantaneous Zero Punch.
The Ultimate Showdown: Saitama vs. Goku
While Dragon Ball protagonists like Goku and Jiren have displayed their mettle against time-altering techniques, Saitama’s Zero Punch stands a class apart. Goku’s Ultra Instinct form, which relies on innate reflexes to counter attacks, might still be no match for a punch that precedes its own inception. Given that the Zero Punch seemingly doesn’t exhaust Saitama, we are left wondering if this is even the pinnacle of his speed.
One must remember, Goku’s character exists within certain narrative confines, bound by an exaggerated realism. Saitama, on the other hand, thrives in comedic absurdity. His very essence revolves around eclipsing any power or speed conceivable. While Goku might surprise us with more groundbreaking abilities in future Dragon Ball chapters, the current crown for speed sits firmly on Saitama’s head, all thanks to the revolutionary Zero Punch.
