After 36 years, creator Akira Toriyama has revealed many hidden secrets in his most iconic work, Dragon Ball. The Japanese mangaka introduced us to a distinctive character that we’ve never seen before: Mr. Popo – a mysterious dark-skinned deity who serves as the guardian of the Dragon Earth.
Mr. Popo is one of the most enigmatic characters in the entire lore of Dragon Ball.
His first appearance was in chapter 163 of the manga, published on August 30, 1988.
Goku had just completed his training circuit with Master Roshi and Master Karin. Therefore, he set out to find a deity to help him prepare for the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament, Kami Sama.
For those who don’t remember, Goku first arrived at the Sacred Land while on a mission to defeat Piccolo Daimaku. This place was entirely secluded and peaceful. It was here that Mr. Popo made his debut in Dragon Ball.
He doesn’t speak much and no one understands what is happening around him. Mr. Popo looks like a being from another planet, with dark skin, bright red lips, and large eyes. He wears a traditional outfit that reflects the culture of the Arabian style, including a turban-like headpiece.
Over time, the frequent visits to the Sacred Land became increasingly common. Although Kami Sama no longer held the title, as he had merged with Piccolo, Mr. Popo continued to serve as the guardian for the new deity, Dende.
Throughout the past 36 years, we have never seen Mr. Popo without his turban. It was not until now, in the second chapter of Dragon Ball Daima, that the character was finally depicted without his headwear. And surprisingly, on his head, he has a pair of small antennae.
