<p>There are a lot of references made to other works and people in the series… </p>

<h2>Inspirations</h2>

<p>As a matter of fact, the series was inspired by and has some major references to </p>

<ul>
<li><p><strong>Journey to the West</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/CMCas.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/CMCas.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p></li>
<li><p><strong>Jackie Chan</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/UzGfV.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/UzGfV.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p></li>
<li><p><strong>Bruce Lee</strong> </p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/2N4Ia.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/2N4Ia.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p></li>
</ul>

<p>You can read more about it <a href="https://planetnamek.wordpress.com/?s=inspiration" rel="noreferrer">here</a>.</p>

<h2>Names</h2>

<p>As one knows, the names in the series are usually puns on something or the other. </p>

<p>For eg. </p>

<ul>
<li>Saiyan comes from Yasai meaning Vegetable and so the names are related to those</li>
<li>In fact, the Brief Family’s names are a pun on Undergarments</li>
<li>Frieza's henchmen are named after Fruits</li>
</ul>

<p>You can read about the origins of many more names <a href="http://dragonball.wikia.com/wiki/Origins_of_character_names" rel="noreferrer">here</a>.</p>

<h2>Tenkaichi Budokai (天下一武道会)</h2>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/c9z9f.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/c9z9f.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>You must have heard of Tenkaichi Budokai’s English translation- "World’s Martial Arts Tournament." I’ll say that that translation maybe right, but has lost it’s essence. A more accurate translation of Tenkaichi Budokai is “The Number One Under Heaven Martial Arts Gathering.”</p>

<p>It was inspired from Lei Tai – The Thunder Hand Platform; a Chinese martial arts tournament. You can read more about it <a href="http://thedaoofdragonball.com/blog/martial-arts/the-origin-of-the-tenkaichi-budokai/" rel="noreferrer">here</a>. </p>

<h2>New Testament</h2>

<p>I believe that Goku's returning from the dead to save everyone is a reference to the New Testament.</p>

<hr>

<p>Now to begin with references present only in a certain series..</p>

<h2>Dragon Ball</h2>

<ul>
<li><h1> Bruce Lee </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/tRWev.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/tRWev.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Great Lee (A Character that resembles Bruce Lee)</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>Great Lee (グレート・リー, Gurēto Rī; "Great Lee"), also known as the Bruce  Lee Impersonator, is a character who resembles the real life martial artist  Bruce Lee.</p>
</blockquote>

<p>￼He is first seen in a vision when Krillin tells Goku about the World  Martial Arts Tournament in the episode "Milk Delivery". Later, the Bruce  Lee Impersonator is seen several times in the Elimination Round at the 21st  World Martial Arts Tournament. </p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/zPnS6.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/zPnS6.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Bruce Lee Impersonator in West City</p>

<p>Another character that resembles Bruce Lee is seen in West City in the  episode 43, where he challenges people to a street fight and anyone who  beats him will get 100,000 zeni.</p>

<p>During the preliminaries for the 22nd Tenkaichi Budokai, Yamaha  says,"Boards don't hit back". It's a reference to Bruce Lee's movie "Enter  the Dragon." </p>

<p>Muscle Tower itself is a reference to a level of the game Spartan X/Kung  Fu master which was based off of Bruce Lee's Game of Death.
To know more check the inspirations part at the beginning of this answer.</p></li>
<li><h1> Chinese Dynasties </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/Dptgm.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/Dptgm.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/5CSNH.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/5CSNH.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/c84fc.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/c84fc.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The Tiger Thief &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bear Thief &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Qing Dynasty Armor</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>The armor the Tiger Thief wears resembles that worn by Chinese soldiers during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The Bear Thief, the Tiger Thief, the nameless warrior trapped in the Gourd of Mist, the Ox King, Sky Dragon, and Lord Yao also wear similar armors.</p>
</blockquote></li>
<li><h1> Dracula </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/obPOZ.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/obPOZ.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Fangs The Vampire from Fortuneteller Baba Saga. A direct reference to Dracula.</p></li>
<li><h1> Dragon Quest </h1></li>
</ul>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/FBlbC.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/FBlbC.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/6tYKM.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/6tYKM.png" alt="enter image description here"></a><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/RLhY6.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/RLhY6.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Archdemon%2022nd%20tournament" rel="noreferrer">Archdemon</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Cyclops%2022nd%20tournament" rel="noreferrer">Cyclops</a> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Orc%2022nd%20tournament" rel="noreferrer">Orc</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://i.sstatic.net/1zaO5.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/1zaO5.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Shaman%2022nd%20tournament" rel="noreferrer">Shaman</a></p>

<ul>
<li><h1> Dr. Slump </h1>

<p>There are a lot of references to the characters of Dr. Slump. The major ones being the episodes in General Blue Saga taking place in 
<a href="http://dragonball.wikia.com/wiki/Penguin_Village" rel="noreferrer">Penguin Village</a>.</p>

<ul>
<li><h1> Chenshi </h1></li>
</ul></li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://i.sstatic.net/26uyy.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/26uyy.png" alt="enter image description here"></a>
￼</p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Chenshi from fortuneteller baba saga</p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;His character design is exactly the same as Turbo Norimaki (Dr. Slump).  </p>

<ul>
<li><h1> Commander Red's Painter </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/A3NJF.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/A3NJF.png" alt="enter image description here"></a>
￼</p>

<p>The Painter</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>During the General Blue Saga, Commander Red has his portrait painted by an anthropomorphic goat, who is similar in appearance to Dr. Goat, who appears in Akira Toriyama's Today's Highlight Island and Dr. Slump series.</p>
</blockquote>

<ul>
<li><h1> Soldier 23 </h1></li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://i.sstatic.net/ObRrP.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/ObRrP.png" alt="enter image description here"></a>
￼</p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Soldier 23 General Blue Saga</p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Soldier 23 was one of the last soldiers of General Blue's sector. He has a slight &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;resemblance to Senbei Norimaki from the Dr. Slump series.</p></li>
<li><h1> Frankenstein's Monster </h1></li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/wSTHF.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/wSTHF.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Android #8 AKA Eighter (Japanese - Hat-chan) is a direct reference to Frankenstein's &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;monster.</p>

<ul>
<li><h1> Hwang Jang Lee </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/aEMTL.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/aEMTL.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/7yUee.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/7yUee.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Mercenary Taopaipai is based on the Korean actor Hwang Jang Lee who played Thunderleg in Jackie Chan's Drunken Master.</p></li>
<li><h1> Jackie Chan </h1></li>
</ul>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://i.sstatic.net/pBO0Y.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/pBO0Y.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackie Chun is a direct reference to Jackie Chan. To know more check the inspirations part at &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; the beginning of this answer.</p>

<ul>
<li><h1> Sitting Bull </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/rOrHa.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/rOrHa.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://i.sstatic.net/RZKo3.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/RZKo3.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<blockquote>
  <p>Little Flower's Father from Aru Village in Emperor Pilaf Saga 
  Little Flower's Father (or Becky's Father in the Ocean Group dub) is a native American who lives in Aru Village. He bears a slight resemblance to the famous Sioux Indian chief Sitting Bull.</p>
</blockquote></li>
<li><h1> Superman </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/c93JC.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/c93JC.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Superman from Dr. Slump in the Penguin Village episode, makes an appearance and goes to a phone booth to change his clothes, acting as a reference to Superman.</p></li>
<li><h1> Tall Man </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/0hD7A.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/0hD7A.png" alt="enter image description here"></a>
￼</p>

<p>Tall Man from Tournament Saga</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>Tall Man (known as Noppo (ノッポ) in the Japanese version) is one of the cowboys seen in the Brown Country saloon. He seems to be a parody of the type of heroes in old westerns.</p>
</blockquote></li>
<li><h1> Terminator </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/jvMxL.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/jvMxL.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/af9Cz.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/af9Cz.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Major Metallitron is a direct reference to Arnold Schwarzenegger's movie "Terminator"</p></li>
<li><h1> The Invisible Man </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/ng6Lr.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/ng6Lr.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>See-Through The Invisible Man from Fortuneteller Baba Saga is a direct reference to the book by the same name.</p></li>
<li><h1> The Mummy </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/lFdpl.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/lFdpl.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Bandages The Mummy from Fortuneteller Baba Saga is a direct reference to the movie with the same name</p></li>
<li><h1> The Wizard of Oz </h1>

<p>There was a cameo of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and Jack Pumpkinhead from the Wizard of Oz in the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament.</p>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/pKh5R.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/pKh5R.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p></li>
<li><h1> Ultraseven </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/aueEA.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/aueEA.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a> <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/RR1Cl.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/RR1Cl.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Kid Chichi's helmet is a reference to Ultraseven.</p></li>
<li><h1> Unnamed Big Fighter </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/1fpBL.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/1fpBL.png" alt="enter image description here"></a>
￼</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>An unnamed fighter who fought the Bruce Lee Impersonator for 100,000 zen in the Red Ribbon Army Saga. This big fighter only appears in the anime. 
  He bears a slight resemblance to retired USMC drill instructor and actor R. Lee Ermey. </p>
</blockquote></li>
<li><h1> Urashima Taro </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/QY15J.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/QY15J.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/L6hRg.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/L6hRg.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>The entire turtle storyline that leads into Kame Rennin's first appearance  is a reference to the legend of Urashima Taro.</p></li>
</ul>

<hr>

<h2>Dragon Ball Z</h2>

<ul>
<li><h1> Aliens </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/M7Tqp.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/M7Tqp.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Third Form of Frieza is a direct reference to Aliens from fictional novels.</p></li>
<li><h1> Baragon </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/4Ff8d.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/4Ff8d.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/35hxy.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/35hxy.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>The monster who fought Frankenstein in "Frankenstein Conquers the World" and later joined Godzilla's family - A cameo in Capsule Corps' garden</p></li>
<li><h1> Cinderella </h1>

<p>The names <a href="http://www.wikiwand.com/en/Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo" rel="noreferrer">Bibidi, Babidi, and Buu</a> are a direct reference to Fairy Godmother's song from Cinderella.</p></li>
<li><h1> Himitsu no Akko-chan </h1>

<p>Yakon is named after the magical phrase "Teku-Maku-Mayakon" from the shoujo manga and anime Himitsu no Akko-chan.</p></li>
<li><h1> KFC </h1>

<p>A KFC Colonel Sanders appears once during the Buu Saga.</p></li>
</ul>

<p>￼  &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/L9Ccn.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/L9Ccn.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<ul>
<li><h1> Michael Jackson </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/fRHZz.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/fRHZz.jpg" alt=" enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/YdTt6.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/YdTt6.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>King Kai's Bubbles is a direct reference to Michael Jackson's Bubbles.</p></li>
<li><h1> Mothra </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/defBn.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/defBn.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/TBBsR.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/TBBsR.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Hirudegarn crashing into the TV tower before undergoing metamorphosis is an homage to the first Mothra movie (1961). </p></li>
<li><h1>Super Sentai</h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/EuVYo.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/EuVYo.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Ginyu Force</p>

<blockquote>
  <p>The Ginyu Force has some resemblances and references to Super Sentai teams (and by extension, Power Rangers teams): five color-coded warriors, tendencies to pose during battle, role calls and supernatural powers.</p>
</blockquote></li>
<li><h1> The Terminator </h1>

<p>Complete Android and Cell Saga is a reference to The Terminator</p></li>
<li><h1> The Sword in the Stone </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/tz2cf.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/tz2cf.png" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/OoNqy.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/OoNqy.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>The Z-sword is a direct reference to The Sword in the Stone.</p></li>
<li><h1> Yatterman </h1>

<p><a href="https://i.sstatic.net/vEA3a.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/vEA3a.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp; <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/ZMLCd.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/ZMLCd.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>

<p>Gohan dressing up as "Great Saiyaman" Videl dressing up as "Great Saiyaman #2" is be a reference to Yatterman, where Yatterman's girlfriend is "Yatterman No.2".</p></li>
</ul>

<hr>

<h2>DBZ Fukkatsu No F</h2>

<h2>Bruce Lee</h2>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://youtu.be/p0IRilo8dLY" rel="noreferrer">Goku doing the one-inch punch</a></li>
<li>Jaco saying "ahhh" after the punch</li>
<li>Whis did a WingChun stance</li>
<li><a href="https://youtu.be/r8GK0VzZ79M?t=2m21s" rel="noreferrer">Vegeta slowly dropping his leg after kicking Frieza</a></li>
</ul>

CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-22T13:27:21.460Z
countless indeed
Eumel
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-22T13:29:06.883Z
Yeah, took me a lot of time to type it...
Pratyush Manocha
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-22T13:36:28.860Z
Now that's a long answer
Lucas Henrique
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-23T10:43:47.407Z
Nice answer mate! It could be interesting to add (if one finds back the source) that Dragon's Ball author stated that all his manga's happened in the same world so this would be an "in universe" reason why there is so much references to his other works (Dr. Slump, etc)
Ikaros
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-23T12:17:55.040Z
Thanx @Ikaros. As a matter of fact, I was inspired by you to write this answer.... Thanx a lot for giving me this idea...I will have to search more in that case... I added all those things which I found had something to support them...
Pratyush Manocha
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-23T12:20:23.683Z
I guess you are talking about my [SnO](http://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/28451/what-are-the-reference-of-heavens-lost-property-to-the-greek-mythology/28452#28452) answer? Well I'm happy to see that I do inspire great answers!
Ikaros
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-23T12:31:12.407Z
@Ikaros  Yeah. It was the SnO answer which inspired me... And thanx to you, I had the pleasure of writing such an answer. I am happy that I was of some help to the community. To be frank, your answer interested me a lot. I was always attracted to myths and legends... Your answer hit the right spot... I learned a lot.. And got inspired by you... I would like to read some more great answers such as yours....  In short, I owe you one. 
Pratyush Manocha
CC BY-SA 3.0
2016-01-22T13:24:05.203Z
2016-01-25T11:45:34.130Z
2016-01-25T11:45:34.130Z
Pratyush Manocha
<p>I was watching Dragon Ball and couldn’t help noticing the reference to Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan  in the World Tournament Saga. </p>

<blockquote>
  <p>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://i.sstatic.net/CUSuS.jpg" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/CUSuS.jpg" alt="enter image description here"></a> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
  <a href="https://i.sstatic.net/0CxAj.png" rel="noreferrer"><img src="https://i.sstatic.net/0CxAj.png" alt="enter image description here"></a></p>
</blockquote>

<p>So my question is, are their more such references in the series or this is as far as it gets?</p>

<dragon-ball-series>
What are the many references Dragon Ball Series makes to other franchises/people?
# What are the many references Dragon Ball Series makes to other franchises/people?
Posted by: username_0 on 2016-01-22
I was watching Dragon Ball and couldn’t help noticing the reference to Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan in the World Tournament Saga.

> [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/CUSuS.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/CUSuS.jpg)                 
> [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/0CxAj.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/0CxAj.png)

So my question is, are their more such references in the series or this is as far as it gets?
**Tags:** dragon-ball-series
---
## 1 answers
### Answer by username_0 on 2016-01-22. Score: 19 | Accepted answer
There are a lot of references made to other works and people in the series…

## Inspirations

As a matter of fact, the series was inspired by and has some major references to

* **Journey to the West**

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/CMCas.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/CMCas.jpg)
* **Jackie Chan**

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/UzGfV.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/UzGfV.jpg)
* **Bruce Lee**

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/2N4Ia.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/2N4Ia.jpg)

You can read more about it [here](https://planetnamek.wordpress.com/?s=inspiration).

## Names

As one knows, the names in the series are usually puns on something or the other.

For eg.

* Saiyan comes from Yasai meaning Vegetable and so the names are related to those
* In fact, the Brief Family’s names are a pun on Undergarments
* Frieza's henchmen are named after Fruits

You can read about the origins of many more names [here](http://dragonball.wikia.com/wiki/Origins_of_character_names).

## Tenkaichi Budokai (天下一武道会)

[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/c9z9f.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/c9z9f.png)

You must have heard of Tenkaichi Budokai’s English translation- "World’s Martial Arts Tournament." I’ll say that that translation maybe right, but has lost it’s essence. A more accurate translation of Tenkaichi Budokai is “The Number One Under Heaven Martial Arts Gathering.”

It was inspired from Lei Tai – The Thunder Hand Platform; a Chinese martial arts tournament. You can read more about it [here](http://thedaoofdragonball.com/blog/martial-arts/the-origin-of-the-tenkaichi-budokai/).

## New Testament

I believe that Goku's returning from the dead to save everyone is a reference to the New Testament.

---

Now to begin with references present only in a certain series..

## Dragon Ball

* # Bruce Lee

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/tRWev.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/tRWev.png)

  Great Lee (A Character that resembles Bruce Lee)

  > Great Lee (グレート・リー, Gurēto Rī; "Great Lee"), also known as the Bruce Lee Impersonator, is a character who resembles the real life martial artist Bruce Lee.

  ￼He is first seen in a vision when Krillin tells Goku about the World Martial Arts Tournament in the episode "Milk Delivery". Later, the Bruce Lee Impersonator is seen several times in the Elimination Round at the 21st World Martial Arts Tournament.

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/zPnS6.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/zPnS6.png)

  Bruce Lee Impersonator in West City

  Another character that resembles Bruce Lee is seen in West City in the episode 43, where he challenges people to a street fight and anyone who beats him will get 100,000 zeni.

  During the preliminaries for the 22nd Tenkaichi Budokai, Yamaha says,"Boards don't hit back". It's a reference to Bruce Lee's movie "Enter the Dragon."

  Muscle Tower itself is a reference to a level of the game Spartan X/Kung Fu master which was based off of Bruce Lee's Game of Death.
  To know more check the inspirations part at the beginning of this answer.
* # Chinese Dynasties

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/Dptgm.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/Dptgm.png)       [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/5CSNH.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/5CSNH.png)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/c84fc.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/c84fc.jpg)

           The Tiger Thief                               Bear Thief                        Qing Dynasty Armor

  > The armor the Tiger Thief wears resembles that worn by Chinese soldiers during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The Bear Thief, the Tiger Thief, the nameless warrior trapped in the Gourd of Mist, the Ox King, Sky Dragon, and Lord Yao also wear similar armors.
* # Dracula

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/obPOZ.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/obPOZ.png)

  Fangs The Vampire from Fortuneteller Baba Saga. A direct reference to Dracula.
* # Dragon Quest

[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/FBlbC.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/FBlbC.png) [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/6tYKM.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/6tYKM.png)[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/RLhY6.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/RLhY6.png)

[Archdemon](http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Archdemon%2022nd%20tournament)                          [Cyclops](http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Cyclops%2022nd%20tournament)                                           [Orc](http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Orc%2022nd%20tournament)

[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/1zaO5.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/1zaO5.png)

[Shaman](http://dragonquest.wikia.com/wiki/Shaman%2022nd%20tournament)

* # Dr. Slump

  There are a lot of references to the characters of Dr. Slump. The major ones being the episodes in General Blue Saga taking place in
  [Penguin Village](http://dragonball.wikia.com/wiki/Penguin_Village).

  + # Chenshi

[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/26uyy.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/26uyy.png)
￼

               Chenshi from fortuneteller baba saga

               His character design is exactly the same as Turbo Norimaki (Dr. Slump).

* # Commander Red's Painter

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/A3NJF.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/A3NJF.png)
  ￼

  The Painter

  > During the General Blue Saga, Commander Red has his portrait painted by an anthropomorphic goat, who is similar in appearance to Dr. Goat, who appears in Akira Toriyama's Today's Highlight Island and Dr. Slump series.

  + # Soldier 23

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/ObRrP.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/ObRrP.png)
  ￼

          Soldier 23 General Blue Saga

          Soldier 23 was one of the last soldiers of General Blue's sector. He has a slight         resemblance to Senbei Norimaki from the Dr. Slump series.
* # Frankenstein's Monster

[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/wSTHF.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/wSTHF.png)

       Android #8 AKA Eighter (Japanese - Hat-chan) is a direct reference to Frankenstein's        monster.

* # Hwang Jang Lee

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/aEMTL.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/aEMTL.png)    [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/7yUee.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/7yUee.jpg)

  Mercenary Taopaipai is based on the Korean actor Hwang Jang Lee who played Thunderleg in Jackie Chan's Drunken Master.
* # Jackie Chan

[![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/pBO0Y.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/pBO0Y.jpg)

      Jackie Chun is a direct reference to Jackie Chan. To know more check the inspirations part at       the beginning of this answer.

* # Sitting Bull

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/rOrHa.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/rOrHa.png)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/RZKo3.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/RZKo3.jpg)

  > Little Flower's Father from Aru Village in Emperor Pilaf Saga
  > Little Flower's Father (or Becky's Father in the Ocean Group dub) is a native American who lives in Aru Village. He bears a slight resemblance to the famous Sioux Indian chief Sitting Bull.
* # Superman

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/c93JC.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/c93JC.jpg)

  Superman from Dr. Slump in the Penguin Village episode, makes an appearance and goes to a phone booth to change his clothes, acting as a reference to Superman.
* # Tall Man

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/0hD7A.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/0hD7A.png)
  ￼

  Tall Man from Tournament Saga

  > Tall Man (known as Noppo (ノッポ) in the Japanese version) is one of the cowboys seen in the Brown Country saloon. He seems to be a parody of the type of heroes in old westerns.
* # Terminator

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/jvMxL.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/jvMxL.png) [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/af9Cz.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/af9Cz.png)

  Major Metallitron is a direct reference to Arnold Schwarzenegger's movie "Terminator"
* # The Invisible Man

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/ng6Lr.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/ng6Lr.png)

  See-Through The Invisible Man from Fortuneteller Baba Saga is a direct reference to the book by the same name.
* # The Mummy

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/lFdpl.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/lFdpl.jpg)

  Bandages The Mummy from Fortuneteller Baba Saga is a direct reference to the movie with the same name
* # The Wizard of Oz

  There was a cameo of Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion and Jack Pumpkinhead from the Wizard of Oz in the 22nd World Martial Arts Tournament.

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/pKh5R.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/pKh5R.png)
* # Ultraseven

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/aueEA.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/aueEA.jpg) [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/RR1Cl.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/RR1Cl.jpg)

  Kid Chichi's helmet is a reference to Ultraseven.
* # Unnamed Big Fighter

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/1fpBL.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/1fpBL.png)
  ￼

  > An unnamed fighter who fought the Bruce Lee Impersonator for 100,000 zen in the Red Ribbon Army Saga. This big fighter only appears in the anime.
  > He bears a slight resemblance to retired USMC drill instructor and actor R. Lee Ermey.
* # Urashima Taro

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/QY15J.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/QY15J.png)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/L6hRg.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/L6hRg.jpg)

  The entire turtle storyline that leads into Kame Rennin's first appearance is a reference to the legend of Urashima Taro.

---

## Dragon Ball Z

* # Aliens

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/M7Tqp.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/M7Tqp.png)

  Third Form of Frieza is a direct reference to Aliens from fictional novels.
* # Baragon

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/4Ff8d.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/4Ff8d.jpg)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/35hxy.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/35hxy.jpg)

  The monster who fought Frankenstein in "Frankenstein Conquers the World" and later joined Godzilla's family - A cameo in Capsule Corps' garden
* # Cinderella

  The names [Bibidi, Babidi, and Buu](http://www.wikiwand.com/en/Bibbidi-Bobbidi-Boo) are a direct reference to Fairy Godmother's song from Cinderella.
* # Himitsu no Akko-chan

  Yakon is named after the magical phrase "Teku-Maku-Mayakon" from the shoujo manga and anime Himitsu no Akko-chan.
* # KFC

  A KFC Colonel Sanders appears once during the Buu Saga.

￼       [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/L9Ccn.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/L9Ccn.png)

* # Michael Jackson

  [![ enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/fRHZz.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/fRHZz.jpg)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/YdTt6.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/YdTt6.jpg)

  King Kai's Bubbles is a direct reference to Michael Jackson's Bubbles.
* # Mothra

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/defBn.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/defBn.jpg)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/TBBsR.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/TBBsR.jpg)

  Hirudegarn crashing into the TV tower before undergoing metamorphosis is an homage to the first Mothra movie (1961).
* # Super Sentai

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/EuVYo.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/EuVYo.png)

  Ginyu Force

  > The Ginyu Force has some resemblances and references to Super Sentai teams (and by extension, Power Rangers teams): five color-coded warriors, tendencies to pose during battle, role calls and supernatural powers.
* # The Terminator

  Complete Android and Cell Saga is a reference to The Terminator
* # The Sword in the Stone

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/tz2cf.png)](https://i.sstatic.net/tz2cf.png)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/OoNqy.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/OoNqy.jpg)

  The Z-sword is a direct reference to The Sword in the Stone.
* # Yatterman

  [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/vEA3a.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/vEA3a.jpg)   [![enter image description here](https://i.sstatic.net/ZMLCd.jpg)](https://i.sstatic.net/ZMLCd.jpg)

  Gohan dressing up as "Great Saiyaman" Videl dressing up as "Great Saiyaman #2" is be a reference to Yatterman, where Yatterman's girlfriend is "Yatterman No.2".

---

## DBZ Fukkatsu No F

## Bruce Lee

* [Goku doing the one-inch punch](https://youtu.be/p0IRilo8dLY)
* Jaco saying "ahhh" after the punch
* Whis did a WingChun stance
* [Vegeta slowly dropping his leg after kicking Frieza](https://youtu.be/r8GK0VzZ79M?t=2m21s)
> **Comments:**
> **username_1** (2016-01-22): countless indeed  
> **username_0** (2016-01-22): Yeah, took me a lot of time to type it...  
> **username_2** (2016-01-22): Now that's a long answer  
> **username_3** (2016-01-23): Nice answer mate! It could be interesting to add (if one finds back the source) that Dragon's Ball author stated that all his manga's happened in the same world so this would be an "in universe" reason why there is so much references to his other works (Dr. Slump, etc)  
> **username_0** (2016-01-23): Thanx @Ikaros. As a matter of fact, I was inspired by you to write this answer.... Thanx a lot for giving me this idea...I will have to search more in that case... I added all those things which I found had something to support them...  
> **username_3** (2016-01-23): I guess you are talking about my [SnO](http://anime.stackexchange.com/questions/28451/what-are-the-reference-of-heavens-lost-property-to-the-greek-mythology/28452#28452) answer? Well I'm happy to see that I do inspire great answers!  
> **username_0** (2016-01-23): @Ikaros  Yeah. It was the SnO answer which inspired me... And thanx to you, I had the pleasure of writing such an answer. I am happy that I was of some help to the community. To be frank, your answer interested me a lot. I was always attracted to myths and legends... Your answer hit the right spot... I learned a lot.. And got inspired by you... I would like to read some more great answers such as yours....  In short, I owe you one.   
---
