Home NEWS Dragon Ball’s future uncertain after creator’s death, series struggles with power imbalance

Dragon Ball’s future uncertain after creator’s death, series struggles with power imbalance

The fate of the Dragon Ball universe is hanging in the balance.

It’s been several months since the world bid farewell to one of its most iconic manga creators, Akira Toriyama. Since his passing, fans worldwide have been left wondering what the future holds for the beloved franchise. A new report from Japan has shed light on the internal struggles that have been plaguing the IP, leaving fans worried about the direction it will take.

According to a report by Weekly Toyo Keizai, a power struggle has emerged between Shueisha, the long-time custodian of the Dragon Ball franchise, and Akio Iyoku, a close friend of Toriyama’s who has played a key role in guiding the IP over the years.

The magazine cites an anonymous source at Shueisha, who claims that the tension began in 2023 when Iyoku left his position as head of the Dragon Ball Room, an organization dedicated to expanding Toriyama’s IP. He went on to found his own company, Capsule Corporation, which specializes in IP management. The move was reportedly a surprise to many at Shueisha, and has since led to a heated battle for control.

“Toriyama-sensei was also dissatisfied with Iyoku being removed [from Shueisha] as he trusted him the most. Chairman Horiuchi of Shueisha even went directly to Toriyama’s residence,” the insider revealed. As the power struggle intensified, companies like Bandai Namco, who license the Dragon Ball franchise, were left caught in the middle, further complicating the situation.

The sudden passing of Toriyama has only added to the uncertainty, leaving the fate of the franchise hanging in the balance. As fans, it’s hard not to feel a sense of unease as the future of Dragon Ball remains shrouded in uncertainty.

What do you think about this report? Where do you want the Dragon Ball franchise to go from here? Share your thoughts with u.