The Wait for Dragon Ball Super Return, It has been a long wait since the Dragon Ball Super manga went on pause in 2024. Fans have been wondering when the next big story will arrive, and now all eyes are on 2026. Editors at V-Jump hinted that the break would continue through 2025, but they also gave hope that something big is being planned behind the scenes. The manga and anime both paused after reaching new heights with the Super Hero arc, and that silence only makes the next step feel even more important.
The year 2026 could mark the next chapter for Dragon Ball Super. Whether it is the return of the manga or a brand new anime continuation, fans around the world believe Goku, Vegeta, and the others are preparing for something huge. This is not just about another battle but the start of a new era after Akira Toriyama passing — a chance to honor his legacy while taking Dragon Ball forward into the future.
Where the Story Last Left Off
Before the hiatus, the manga ended right after the Super Hero arc. Gohan had reached his new “Beast” form, Goten and Trunks had grown into young heroes, and Piccolo had awakened his “Orange” power. But the biggest cliffhanger came from the shadows: Black Frieza. His new power level easily defeated both Goku and Vegeta in their most advanced forms. That short scene left fans asking a single question — who can stop Frieza now?
It seems likely that the next story will pick up from that moment. Frieza’s power has now reached a level beyond anything we have seen in the Dragon Ball universe. He could become the center of the next saga, perhaps creating his own empire again or challenging the gods themselves. His goal might go far beyond revenge — maybe he now wants the power to rule over every universe.
The Possible Arc of 2026
The most talked-about fan theory right now is the “Black Frieza Arc.” This idea suggests that the story will focus on the final confrontation between Goku, Vegeta, and Frieza. Unlike before, this would not just be another fight but a full war that stretches across universes. Frieza could be gathering other villains or even new allies to face the Saiyans. This would allow the manga to bring back forgotten worlds and fighters, giving readers a mix of nostalgia and excitement.
Another popular idea is that we might finally see the “God of Destruction Training Arc.” Vegeta has been walking that path since his lessons with Beerus began. In 2026, we might see him fully take on the role of a destroyer in another universe. Goku, on the other hand, might explore a new form of Ultra Instinct that mixes calmness with his fighting spirit. The two Saiyans could be heading toward completely different destinies, creating a storyline that explores how strength can mean different things to different warriors.
There is also talk of an arc centered on the “Mortal Level” system — the idea that some universes are weaker than others. Goku and Vegeta could be chosen by the Grand Priest to fix this balance, leading them into unknown universes and new battles. This would open the door for new gods, new mortals, and maybe even a return of characters like Jiren or Hit.
New Villains and Power Levels
Every Dragon Ball saga introduces a new threat, and 2026 will be no different. Fans believe we might see an enemy who is even beyond god level. Some theories mention a warrior from Universe 1 or 12, the two universes we have not seen much of before. These universes are said to have the highest mortal levels, which means their fighters might already surpass Goku and Vegeta. A story involving such powerful beings would force our heroes to break limits again and show what true Ultra Instinct and Ultra Ego really mean.
Frieza could also form a “Shadow Army,” gathering strong warriors from different timelines or universes. Imagine a team of revived villains like Cell, Cooler, or even a new Saiyan who survived the destruction of Planet Vegeta. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this next chapter so exciting.
Power levels in 2026 could reach new heights. If Goku unlocks a complete Ultra Instinct that he can control freely, and Vegeta reaches full Ultra Ego with god energy, they might finally reach a level equal to the Angels. But Dragon Ball has always shown that power is not everything — wisdom, control, and teamwork matter just as much. That message could return strongly in the new saga.
What About Gohan, Piccolo, and the Next Generation
The Super Hero movie and manga arc made it clear that Gohan and Piccolo are not just side characters anymore. They have their own paths and powers that might even rival Goku and Vegeta’s. The 2026 return could show Gohan training to master his Beast form, while Piccolo continues to understand his Orange power. Together, they could form a new kind of team that protects Earth while Goku and Vegeta explore the wider cosmos.
Trunks and Goten also deserve more spotlight. After their one-shot chapter in 2025, fans are expecting to see them take on larger roles. They could be the key to starting a new generation of fighters, learning from their fathers but making their own choices. This balance between old and new heroes could be one of the strongest points of the next series.
When and How It Might Return
Based on all reports, 2026 seems to be the realistic target for Dragon Ball Super’s comeback. The team at V-Jump and Toei Animation are being very careful about the story and artwork, especially after Toriyama’s passing. Toyotarou, who has been drawing the manga, may be preparing the next arc with new creative partners. Many believe the story has already been planned — it just needs the right time to be released.
If everything goes well, the manga could return in the first half of 2026 with new chapters in V-Jump, followed later by an anime adaptation. Fans hope that Toei Animation will finally announce Dragon Ball Super Season 2 once there are enough manga chapters to adapt.
Final Thoughts
Dragon Ball has always been about evolution — not just of power, but of spirit. Each generation of the story has pushed its heroes to discover who they are and what it means to protect others. The year 2026 could be the moment when that message returns stronger than ever. Whether it is Goku facing a new god-like villain, Vegeta taking the throne of a destroyer, or Gohan becoming Earth’s protector, Dragon Ball Super’s comeback will remind the world why this series never truly ends.
Fans are waiting with hope, excitement, and curiosity. And when that first new chapter or episode drops, the Dragon Ball world will rise again — louder, prouder, and stronger than ever before.
