For many fans, the late creator of Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama is nothing short of a cultural icon, whose influence has spanned decades and shaped modern anime. Now, one fan has achieved something that even the most dedicated followers can only dream of receiving, and that fan is none other than YouTuber, rapper, and boxer KSI.
KSI, whose love for Dragon Ball is not a secret, was recently surprised by his close friend and fellow YouTuber, the Sidemen’s Simon, with a one-of-a-kind gift: a signed Goku sketch drawn by Akira Toriyama. This special gift not only has particular significance for him, but the millions of Dragon Ball fans as well who can’t help but feel jealous.
The Priceless Dragon Ball Gift from the Sidemen to KSI
Excessive surprises are nothing new for The Sidemen, KSI’s co-founded YouTube group based in the UK. The group enjoys pulling elaborate pranks and giving each other surprising gifts. However, they have really outdone themselves when it comes to giving KSI a signed Goku drawing by Akira Toriyama.
The signed drawing is not just a fan collection; it’s an artifact from one of the greatest living creators in the world of anime and manga. For a Dragon Ball fan like KSI, receiving this gift is akin to winning the lottery. The value of the gift goes far beyond its monetary worth — it’s a direct connection to a creator who has inspired millions of people across the globe.
Knowing that this gift came from one of his friends in the Sidemen, Simon, who clearly understands how much Dragon Ball means to KSI, makes the gesture even more special.
KSI’s Deep Connection to Dragon Ball
It isn’t exaggerating to say that, seeing KSI’s response to receiving this invaluable gift, Dragon Ball fans across the globe sensed a mixture of pride and jealously. On the one hand, it makes sense to feel jealous of someone who has acquired something as unique as a signed Goku drawing by Akira Toriyama. On the other hand, it’s also really touching to see how enthusiastic and supportive the Dragon Ball fandom has been.
NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
KSI got that illustration before any of us, it’s FUCKIN’ Over!!!
— Yash fans trends (@yashKushal46) October 15, 2024
This whole video was actually really wholesome
— dennis perkins (@realtalkuvny) October 15, 2024
im jealous asf
— Lllllllillxxl (@lllllllillxxl) October 15, 2024
This was so sick
— Zayn (@itz_zayn77) October 15, 2024
For those who have followed KSI’s career from the beginning, his passion for Dragon Ball has always been evident. Whether it’s through casual references in his videos, discussions with fans, or streaming Dragon Ball games, KSI has never held back from sharing his love for the series that introduced many to anime during the 90s and 2000s.
Growing up in the UK, KSI was part of a generation that embraced Dragon Ball as more than just a show — it was a cultural phenomenon. Thus, for KSI, getting Akira Toriyama’s signed drawing of Goku represents more than just his appreciation for a character who has influenced him throughout his life.
While the rest of us can only watch in awe, we can also take pride in seeing one of the most popular and relatable content creators in the world get his well-deserved moment in the spotlight, celebrating the series that has inspired us all.
Dragon Ball is currently available to watch on Crunchyroll.
