Master Oogway chooses Po as the Dragon Warrior in Kung Fu Panda.
Oogway is an ancient tortoise and the revered founder of kung fu in the film’s mythology. He serves as the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace and is Master Shifu’s teacher. During a public ceremony intended to select the Dragon Warrior, Oogway points to Po, who accidentally lands in the arena at exactly the decisive moment.
The choice surprises nearly everyone, especially Shifu and the Furious Five. Shifu had expected one of the Five to receive the title, but Oogway’s decision begins Po’s transformation into a genuine kung fu master.
Master Shifu is therefore an important related character, but he does not make the original selection. Oogway later dies peacefully beneath a peach tree, leaving Shifu and Po to continue the work of protecting the valley.