Before flashy new-gen fights and high-budget animation, Dragon Ball set the foundation for what shounen anime would become. From intense training arcs to iconic transformations, it’s a series that defined generations. And thanks to Marcus Ottner’s amazing tattoo work, we’re about to dive into some of the most legendary characters immortalized in ink. Let’s check them out!
Future Trunks – The Time Warrior
Arist: Marcus Ottner - Book Here
Trunks has always been one of the coolest characters in Dragon Ball. Whether it was his shocking debut in Dragon Ball Z when he sliced Frieza in half or his desperate battle against Zamasu in Dragon Ball Super, he’s the ultimate time-traveling warrior. This tattoo shows his climactic moment from the Future Trunks arc—his Spirit Bomb Sword charged up, crackling with energy, as he delivers the final blow. The colors explode off the skin, with electric blue and fiery red tones making this piece feel as powerful as the moment itself.
Goku – The Return of Kaioken
Arist: Marcus Ottner - Book Here
Kaioken was one of Goku’s earliest power-ups, and for years, we thought it was lost to time. Then Dragon Ball Super brought it back in the Universe 6 Tournament, fusing it with Super Saiyan Blue to give us one of the coolest moments in the series. This tattoo captures that intensity perfectly—Goku is mid-charge, aura flaring, body tensed, ready to unleash devastation. The contrast between the red Kaioken aura and the cool blue of his hair makes this piece stand out as a true tribute to Goku’s never-ending growth.
Semi-Perfect Cell – A Sore Loser’s Last Stand
Arist: Marcus Ottner - Book Here
Cell went from a lurking threat to one of the most terrifying villains in Dragon Ball Z, evolving through multiple forms before reaching perfection. But after that, we got Semi-Perfect Cell, and one of his most infamous moment—blowing himself up in a tantrum after losing to Gohan. This tattoo captures that explosion in full force, with the chaotic red lightning crackling as he prepares to self-destruct. It’s a raw moment, and the inkwork makes it feel just as intense as it did in the anime.
Vegeta – A Saiyan’s Pride
Arist: Marcus Ottner - Book Here
Vegeta’s Super Saiyan Blue form cemented him as a force to be reckoned with. And while Goku gets most of the spotlight, Vegeta has some of the hypest moments in Dragon Ball Super. One of the best? When he absolutely demolishes Golden Frieza after Goku fumbles the fight. This tattoo showcases Vegeta mid-battle, screaming as he charges up his attack, his aura swirling around him. The shading and depth in this piece bring out every detail of his rage and pride, making it the perfect tribute to the Saiyan Prince.
Janemba – The Demon of Pure Chaos
Arist: Marcus Ottner - Book Here
Dragon Ball movies have given us some of the most stylish villains, and Janemba might be the best of them all. His reality-warping abilities, demonic energy, and brutal beatdown at the hands of Gogeta make him a fan favorite. This tattoo captures his chaotic energy perfectly—Janemba is charging up a ki blast, the signature demon orbs floating around him and the deep reds and purples in this piece make it feel straight out of the Fusion Reborn movie, a perfect homage to one of the coolest non-canon villains.
