Pisces vs. Cancer: Which Saint Seiya Gold Saint Is Weaker?

In the legendary universe of Saint Seiya, the 88 Saints of Athena stand as divine protectors of justice and peace. Among them, the twelve Gold Saints represent the pinnacle of power and dedication. Yet, even among these elite warriors, strength varies—and two often stand out as the most debated: Cancer and Pisces, infamously dubbed the “Aquatic Duo.” But which of these water-sign warriors is truly weaker?

Cancer Gold Saint: Deathmask

Deathmask, the Cancer Gold Saint, possesses a uniquely eerie ability: soul-based attacks and the power to traverse between the world of the living and the underworld. While other Gold Saints require the Eighth Sense to enter Hades’ realm, Deathmask does so effortlessly—a testament to his dark mastery. However, his strength is shadowed by his cruel nature. The walls of the Cancer Temple are adorned with the faces of his victims, including women and children, revealing a Saint who revels in slaughter rather than protection.

During the Zodiac Temple arc, Deathmask faced Dragon Shiryu. He repeatedly sent his opponent to the underworld, only for Shiryu to return with renewed resolve. In the end, Deathmask’s vile character led his own Gold Cloth to abandon him. Shiryu, fighting honorably without his Cloth, defeated him with the Rozan Kōryūha (Rising Dragon Force).

Pisces Gold Saint: Aphrodite

Aphrodite, the Pisces Gold Saint, carries the legacy of beauty and grace—a trait shared by his predecessors. But unlike the noble Pisces Saints before him, Aphrodite prioritized vanity and power over duty. His combat style relies on four deadly roses, each with unique effects: from paralyzing fragrances to fatal thorns.

Positioned closest to the Pope’s temple, Aphrodite was among the first to discover Saga’s treachery. Yet, he chose loyalty to the false Pope over Athena. Despite this moral failure, his strength was notable. He effortlessly defeated the Silver Saint, Jabu of Cepheus—a warrior said to rival Gold Saints—and initially overpowered Andromeda Shun during their battle. However, Shun’s awakening of the Seventh Sense turned the tide, leading to a mutual defeat via Aphrodite’s Bloody Rose.

The Aquatic Duo: Origins and shared flaws

Their nickname, “Aquatic Duo,” stems from their water-based zodiac signs and shared moral shortcomings. Both knowingly served Saga’s corrupt regime, abandoning their sacred duty to Athena. In the Hades Chapter, they were resurrected and sent to attack Sanctuary but were easily repelled by Mu of Aries. Later, they faced Lada of the Specters—and lost again, though their Cosmos were suppressed to a tenth of their true power under Hades’ barrier.

Strength comparison: Who is weaker?

When comparing raw power, Deathmask holds a slight edge. His innate ability to communicate with spirits and manipulate Sekishiki Meikaiha (Another Dimension wave) grants him unique tactical advantages. He even injured Sagittarius Aiolos—one of the strongest Gold Saints—during Athena’s escape. Deathmask’s downfall was always his character, not his strength.

Aphrodite, while deadly with his roses, relied too heavily on predictable patterns. His techniques could be countered by those familiar with his style, and his overconfidence often left him vulnerable. However, his Bloody Rose remains one of the most dangerous techniques in the series.

Ultimately, both Saints redeemed themselves by joining the other Gold Saints in destroying the Wailing Wall—a sacrifice that allowed the Bronze Saints to advance and secure victory in the Holy War.

Conclusion: The legacy of the water signs

In the world of Saint Seiya, strength isn’t just about power—it’s about spirit, duty, and growth. While Deathmask may be slightly stronger in combat, both he and Aphrodite struggled with the same flaw: a loss of purpose. For Pisces, a sign associated with empathy and intuition, Aphrodite’s fall from grace is particularly poignant. It serves as a reminder that even the most gifted individuals can lose their way when they abandon their core values.

Whether you’re a Pisces seeking inspiration or a Saint Seiya fan debating Gold Saint tiers, their stories highlight the importance of integrity alongside strength. After all, true power lies not just in defeating enemies—but in protecting what you believe in.