Does Vegeta hate Piccolo?

The relationship between Vegeta and Piccolo is complex and evolves significantly throughout the Dragon Ball series. While it’s not accurate to say that Vegeta outright hates Piccolo, there are moments early on in the series where their interactions suggest animosity, and their dynamic is shaped by their past and the way their personalities clash.

Early Encounters:

When Vegeta first appears in Dragon Ball Z, he is one of the most prideful and ruthless characters. As a member of the Saiyan race, he is initially focused on his own goals, which include obtaining the Dragon Balls to wish for immortality and defeating Goku. Vegeta's arrogant and ruthless nature makes him quite disdainful of anyone who poses a threat to his superiority, including Piccolo, who is part of the Z Fighters and one of Goku's most formidable allies.

In their early encounters, Vegeta sees Piccolo as a mere obstacle in his way and doesn’t show much respect for him. He views him as another weakling who stands in the way of his goals. Vegeta's attitude toward Piccolo is primarily based on his belief in the superiority of Saiyans, as well as his tendency to underestimate other races and warriors.

The Change in Dynamic:

However, as the series progresses, Vegeta's attitude toward Piccolo begins to change, especially during the Majin Buu Saga and beyond. Vegeta's interactions with Piccolo evolve from mutual disdain to a more neutral and even cooperative relationship. They are both members of the Z Fighters, and though their personalities still clash at times, they work together to protect Earth.

One notable shift occurs during the Majin Buu Saga when Vegeta realizes the importance of working alongside the other Z Fighters, including Piccolo, in order to defeat stronger foes. Though Vegeta never fully sheds his pride, he becomes more aware of the value of teamwork and respect for other warriors, even if they aren’t Saiyans.

Respect and Rivalry:

In later arcs, Vegeta's relationship with Piccolo becomes more one of mutual respect, although the rivalry between them never completely disappears. Vegeta respects Piccolo's strength and the role he plays in protecting Earth, but there is still some underlying competition between the two, especially since Vegeta always strives to be the strongest warrior.

In the Dragon Ball Super series, the two characters share moments of camaraderie, particularly during battles where they fight alongside each other. However, Vegeta’s pride often leads to him wanting to prove himself as the superior fighter, which can cause friction between him and Piccolo.

Conclusion:

While Vegeta may have initially seen Piccolo as an obstacle and someone beneath him, it would be inaccurate to say that he truly hates him. Over time, Vegeta's animosity toward Piccolo diminishes, and their relationship evolves into one of mutual respect, though still tempered by Vegeta's pride and competitive nature. Ultimately, Vegeta's respect for Piccolo grows as they fight alongside each other to protect Earth, but their rivalry and pride remain at the core of their interactions.

In short, Vegeta doesn’t hate Piccolo, but their relationship is defined by a combination of rivalry, mutual respect, and the complicated personalities that define both of them.