Black Clover’s Judgment Day phase has featured some thrilling battles, and it’s no surprise that it includes nods to other popular shonen series like Dragon Ball.
In the final moments of Black Clover chapter #373, a weakened Noelle, with the support of her siblings, delivers a powerful attack that strongly resembles the climax of Dragon Ball’s Cell Saga, where Goku and Gohan perform their Father-Son Kamehameha.
Black Clover is often compared to other shonen series like Naruto, so it’s natural to see similarities with Dragon Ball as well. These stories share the shonen formula, which involves exciting battles and memorable, satisfying conclusions for their heroes.
In chapter #373, Noelle Silva, along with Nozel, Nebra, and Solid, executes an attack similar to Dragon Ball’s Father-Son Kamehameha against a resurrected paladin version of their mother, Acier Silva. This moment not only mirrors the Goku and Gohan attack but also adds a unique twist with Noelle combining her magic with her siblings’ to enhance the attack.
The result is a powerful strike that overcomes Acier’s near-immortality as a paladin, making it reminiscent of Gohan’s victory over Cell in Dragon Ball.
Black Clover’s Emotional Defeat of Acier Echoes Dragon Ball’s Iconic Moments, Highlighting Family Unity
Although Acier isn’t built up to the same level as Cell in Dragon Ball Z, her defeat is still a powerful and emotional moment for the Silva family. In Black Clover, this victory brings the family together in front of their proud mother, who acknowledges their efforts in her final moments.
However, since Acier has already been cursed to death by Megicula, this should be her final appearance, and her defeat symbolizes the family’s unity.
The scene is reminiscent of the Father-Son Kamehameha from Dragon Ball, inviting comparisons between the two series. Black Clover’s version of the attack draws strong parallels with Dragon Ball, even though Noelle and Gohan have different personalities.
Both characters are born with great power and develop further under the guidance of unconventional mentors—Noelle with the Black Bulls and Gohan with Piccolo. Neither is the main character, but both show their potential in exciting ways.
However, the comparison isn’t perfect. Noelle is supported by Nebra, Solid, and defended by Nozel, while Gohan’s major moment in Dragon Ball is guided by a deceased Goku, who communicates from King Kai’s location. Similar comparisons, like those between Black Clover’s Yami and Itachi, also have flaws when more details emerge.
Nevertheless, the moment is satisfying and should hold readers over until Black Clover chapter #374 is released in Fall 2024.
