As a former champion of the Budokai, Son Goku learned quite a
bit from him.
When Son Goku first saw Kamesennin use the "Kame Hame Ha" early in the
Dragon Ball series, Kamesennin became his first Sensai. Goku's potential was
slowly realized through his training.
Kamesenin influenced Son Goku beyond fighting tehnique. He had always believed
that one should always seek to improve no matter what level of skill one is in.
In the first competition, he purposely joined the contest and defeated Goku such
that he'll have someting to strive for rather than being content. In the second
competition, he purposely forfeited the fight against Tenshinhan to show that
there is always someone better.
What he taught Goku is readily apparent as Goku spared the lives of his
opponents hoping to meet a greater challenge in the Future. Also, even after
defeating Freeza and there is no apparent warrior who is stronger, he still
sought to improve his skills rather than returning to earth.
His significance, however, faded quite dramatically in Z. He is portrayed as
nothing more than just a dirty