'Dragon Ball Super' news, spoilers: July schedule, episode titles out; Is Black Goku a god of destruction?

Fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming release of the next episodes of "Dragon Ball Super" after the first four titles scheduled to show in July were leaked. The atmosphere became even more charged when the last episode of the anime series uncovered a new character, Black Goku. This has prompted the most enthusiastic followers to speculate on who the character really is. Many believe him to be an earlier version of Goten or a god of destruction.

There is likely more to Black Goku that meets the eye while others dispute his being an alternate Goten because of some details observed upon his reveal. The most obvious clue is that of there being only 12 universes now existing from the original 18. Six universes could not have been destroyed by anything less than a Supreme Kai, but it is more likely to have been a god of destruction because, as fans point out, only the latter kind could carry out that much devastation.

The character acts derisively toward the Saiyans, as seen in his confrontation with the Future Trunks. This could point to him being non-Saiyan. His mannerisms and physique make a close match to a god of destruction especially with the way he folds his arms behind his back and his slimmer build. These very much characterize the body language of Kais and gods of destruction. There is also the pair of Potara earrings that is a very telling clue. Such earrings have been worn by Kais as well as their attendants for generations.

A lot points to Black Goku having deified origins; he may even be demonic. His first appearance was in a dark cloud with glowing red eyes, and he seems to have a dark "ki."

These are all from what has been shown so far of the character, although nothing has been confirmed as to who he really his. What is decidedly true is that the next episode, "Dragon Ball Super" episode 50, entitled "Goku vs. Black," will feature the showdown between the look-alikes Goku and Black Goku. This will air on July 3.

The succeeding episodes, 51, 52, and 53, follow each Sunday hence. Episode 51, "Missing Mai Across Time," airs on July 10, while the 52nd episode, titled "Gohan and Future Trunks," is on July 17. Episode 53 will be the awaited "Black's Identity Revealed," to be shown July 24.