Yamcha debuts as a desert bandit operating in Diablo Desert alongside his companion Puar. He ambushes Goku, Bulma, and Oolong to steal their possessions but flees upon encountering Bulma due to an extreme phobia of women. Learning of the Dragon Balls' wish-granting power, he attempts to steal them to cure his fear but fails. He subsequently reforms, joining Goku's group against threats including Emperor Pilaf and the Rabbit Mob. His fear of women gradually diminishes through repeated interactions with Bulma, leading to a long-term romantic relationship between them. Training under Master Roshi, Yamcha develops signature techniques: the Wolf Fang Fist, mimicking wolf movements for rapid strikes, and the controllable energy sphere, the Spirit Ball. He competes in multiple World Martial Arts Tournaments without securing victory, suffering defeats from fighters like Tien Shinhan and Kami. Before the 23rd Tournament, facial scars of unknown origin appear. During the Saiyan Saga, Yamcha is killed by a Saibaman, leading to training with King Kai in the afterlife—marking his first major death. Resurrected later, he participates in battles against Frieza's forces before remaining on Earth. Yamcha and Bulma end their relationship during the three-year preparation for the Androids' arrival; Bulma later starts a family with Vegeta. Yamcha initially harbors resentment but eventually reconciles with Vegeta after observing his emotional vulnerability. In the Android Saga, Dr. Gero (Android 20) critically injures Yamcha by impaling him while draining his energy, a near-death experience contributing to his reduced combat role. Following the Cell Games, he retires from active fighting but continues independent training. Yamcha attends Mr. Satan's banquet celebrating Majin Buu's defeat and a new hotel opening in "Dragon Ball: Yo! The Return of Son Goku and Friends!!". The event is interrupted by Vegeta's brother, Tarble, warning of threats Abo and Cado. During a subsequent heroes' baseball game, Yamcha serves as team captain and key player, integrating martial arts into baseball to create the "Wolf Fang Pitching Fist Ball"—a high-speed pitch with unpredictable maneuverability. His athletic performance helps secure his team's victory. Later media depicts Yamcha utilizing his strength for a professional baseball career while maintaining fighting abilities. He expresses interest in the Tournament of Power but is not selected. During the Galactic Patrol Prisoner Saga, he temporarily rejoins the battlefield as a Galactic Patrol deputy, eager to defend Earth against new threats. His appearance evolves across the series, featuring hairstyle changes and outfits bearing kanji like "Kame" (turtle) and "Kai" (king), later adopting a Bruce Lee-inspired white martial arts gi in "Super". Yamcha's arc transitions from determined martial artist to retired hero finding purpose beyond combat. Though overshadowed by Saiyan allies, he remains a loyal ally during crises. His background includes piloting vehicles, swordsmanship, and firearms proficiency, though flight via Bukû-jutsu eventually replaces mechanical transport. In an alternate future timeline, Yamcha is killed alongside other warriors by Androids 17 and 18.