Buff Dedede refers to a version of the iconic Kirby antagonist, King Dedede, who appears in an incredibly muscular state during a boss fight in the 2018 game Kirby Star Allies. The image of the normally plump king suddenly possessing a bodybuilder's physique immediately caught the internet's attention, spawning countless memes and fan art. It is typically used to represent a sudden increase in power, an intimidating presence, or a comical flex regarding a minor accomplishment. Whether used to mock alpha culture or simply to show off an unexpected transformation, Buff Dedede remains a staple of Nintendo-themed internet humor.