Let's pay tribute to the legendary Akira Toriyama, whose departure from this world on the 1st of March, though officially announced on Thursday, 7th of March, has left a void in the hearts of many. At the age of 68, this manga artist and designer, revered for birthing the iconic “Dragon Ball” series, succumbed to a subdural hematoma—a serious condition where blood collects between the brain's surface and its outer covering, often the aftermath of severe head trauma and alarmingly fatal.
Dragon Ball, a name that resonates with an entire generation, leapfrogged into stardom back in 1989 when a partnership with Toei Animation breathed animated life into the series. Initially captivating audiences in Japan, it wasn't long before its influence sprawled across continents, embedding itself in the childhood memories of countless individuals, including sports stars.
And oh, how it resonated within Mexican football! The vibrant scenes and unforgettable characters of Dragon Ball became a source of inspiration for footballers in Mexico, who incorporated gestures from the series into their goal celebrations, turning the pitch into a stage for Akira Toriyama's masterpiece. Luis Montes, for instance, during his time with Club León, was known for mimicking the series' teleportation technique—a nod to the fantastical world of Dragon Ball that even saw him starring in creative visual tributes to Toriyama's work.
Not to be outdone, André-Pierre Gignac unleashed a “Kamehameha” in celebration of his goals, a powerful homage to the series that transcended cultural and linguistic barriers. Eduardo Salvio, donning the Pumas UNAM jersey, and numerous others showed that nostalgia knows no age, and the joy of reliving childhood moments through such gestures is a universal feeling.
Players like Sebastián Fierro and Ozziel Herrera, wearing the colors of Tigres UANL, chose the fusion gesture as their celebratory hallmark, a symbol of unity and strength on the field. This was mirrored by Hirving “Chucky” Lozano and Érick Gutiérrez during their stint in the Dutch football league with PSV Eindhoven, where they showcased a “fusion of Mexican talent,” not just in their skills but in their shared love for Dragon Ball, a testament to the enduring legacy of Akira Toriyama's creation.
In embracing Dragon Ball, these athletes remind us that art and sport share the power to unite, to inspire, and to pay homage to the visionaries who shape our world. Toriyama's influence, etched into the fabric of our collective memory, continues to inspire across generations, proving that heroes, much like the cherished memories of our youth, are indeed timeless.
