What episode is "Tournament Begins" in Dragon Ball Z?
"Tournament Begins" is episode 196 of Dragon Ball Z.
Spoiler-Safe Summary
safe readAn Otherworld Martial Arts Tournament is organized to determine the strongest fighter among the quadrants. After several matches, Goku faces an opponent whose unusual tactics lead to an unexpected outcome, showcasing humor and unique challenges in this spirited contest.
Full Plot Summary
spoilersWest Kai suggests that an Otherworld Martial Arts Tournament be held to determine which quadrant has the greatest fighter. The Grand Kai agrees, and so the Tournament begins. After several matches, it is Goku's turn. His opponent grabs him and starts to tickle him into submission. Goku gets in a hit on him, and this causes his opponent to cry and start his metamorphosis into his ultimate form. But because this metamorphosis takes 1200 years, Goku is declared the winner by default.
Episode FAQ
4 quick answersIs "Tournament Begins" canon or filler?
"Tournament Begins" is listed as canon in the current AnimeAnchor guide.
What story arc is "Tournament Begins" part of?
"Tournament Begins" is part of the Other World, Great Saiyaman and World Tournament Sagas.
Can I read this without spoilers?
Yes. Start with the spoiler-safe summary, then reveal the full plot only when you want the complete episode breakdown.
Series Cast
18Browse the main cast connected to this episode guide.
Krillin main 
Piccolo main 
Son Gohan main 
Son Goku main 
Vegeta main 
Android 17 supporting 
Android 18 supporting 
Bardock supporting 
Bulma supporting 
Chiaotzu supporting Master Roshi supporting Pan supporting 
Son Goten supporting Tien Shinhan supporting 
Trunks supporting 
Yamcha supporting Babidi antagonist Burter antagonist Related Movies
6Franchise movie releases are kept separate from the TV episode spine.
Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku 1990 
Dragon Ball Z: The Tree of Might 1990 
Dragon Ball Z: The World's Strongest 1990 
Dragon Ball Z: The History of Trunks 1991 
Dragon Ball Z: Super Android 13! 1992 
Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound 1993