One fan, u/SSJRemuko, offers a top comment that provides an in-fiction justification for why Android 17 is so strong in “Dragon Ball Super.” They explained that Androids 17 and 18’s greatest strength is their unlimited energy — something outlined in the Android Saga that precedes the Cell Game Saga. “They dont need to eat, and only need to drink water and i dont think they even need to sleep. this means they can train a lot longer and harder than anyone else.”

Meanwhile, a Reddit user whose account has since been deleted elaborated on this idea with an explanation for why Android 17 in particular is even more powerful than Android 18, citing a supplemental page from the “Dragon Ball Z” manga. “Dr. Gero gave android 17 enhanced power capabilities. He’s massively stronger than 18 because his infinity generator isn’t suppressed, and he was made to be excessively powerful,” they wrote.

Fans looking to justify Android 17’s immense power don’t have to simply suspend their disbelief when he shows up in “Dragon Ball Super.” Rather, there are, in fact, reasons he could have plausibly trained to become strong enough to hold his own in the Tournament of Power rooted in existing canon.