Saint Seiya: Why Pisces and Cancer Are Often Considered the Weakest Gold Saints? Three Key Reasons

In the epic saga of Saint Seiya, the twelve Gold Saints stand as formidable guardians under the war goddess Athena. Among these celestial warriors, the debate over their relative strength has captivated fans for decades. While characters like Gemini Saga and Virgo Shaka are universally revered for their immense power, two often find themselves at the center of controversy: Cancer Deathmask and Pisces Aphrodite. Dubbed the “Aquatic Duo,” these two are frequently labeled as the weakest of the Gold Saints. But why does this perception persist? Let’s dive into the three core reasons behind this enduring fan consensus.

1. Defeat by Bronze Saints and Their “Villainous” Nature

In the Sanctuary Arc, the hierarchy of Saints is clear: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, with power escalating at each level. Thus, a Bronze Saint defeating a Gold Saint should be nearly impossible. Yet, both Aphrodite and Deathmask fell to Bronze Saints—Shun and Shiryu, respectively—and lost their lives in the process. This shocking outcome immediately painted them as inferior in the eyes of many viewers.

However, they weren’t the only Gold Saints bested by Bronze opponents. So why are these two singled out? The answer lies in their moral alignment. During the “Saga Rebellion,” both Aphrodite and Deathmask sided with the corrupt Pope, embracing the philosophy that “might makes right.” Their knowingly complicit role in the Sanctuary’s turmoil eroded fan sympathy and cemented their status as antagonists, further fueling the perception of their weakness.

2. Overwhelmed by Aries Mu in the Hades Arc

The Hades Arc seemingly reinforced this notion. Revived by Hades’ power, Aphrodite and Deathmask returned to challenge Aries Mu at the Sanctuary. In a stunning display, Mu defeated both of them single-handedly. This encounter, combined with their earlier losses, seemed to confirm their inferiority among the Gold Saints.

Later analyses by dedicated fans suggested that this defeat might have been an act—a strategic deception for a greater purpose. But in the moment, it left an indelible impression of weakness that has shaped fan discourse ever since.

3. Humiliation by the Specter General Radamanthys

If their loss to Mu wasn’t enough, the Aquatic Duo faced further humiliation in the Underworld. Confronted by Radamanthys, one of Hades’ Three Great Judges, they were effortlessly thrown into the abyss of Yomotsu Hirasaka. This scene, dramatic and brutal, seemed to underscore their inadequacy.

It’s worth noting that Gold Saints within Hades’ (barrier) could only access a fraction of their true power, which explains their defeat. Yet, the narrative chose to highlight this moment of vulnerability, solidifying the audience’s perception of them as the weakest links.

Rethinking the Aquatic Duo: Beyond the Consensus

Ultimately, power rankings in Saint Seiya are subjective, shaped by interpretation, official lore, and fan passion. Some argue that author Masami Kurumada never intended a rigid hierarchy, and that these debates are largely fan-driven. For Pisces and Cancer enthusiasts, these Saints possess untapped depth and unique strengths that defy simplistic labels.

Whether you see them as underestimated warriors or narrative foils, their legacy invites us to look beyond surface judgments and appreciate the complexity of every Gold Saint’s journey.