Hulk’s Upcoming Gory Kill: A Shocking Showdown with Wolverine’s Darkest Moment

Warning: This article contains major spoilers for The Incredible Hulk #21!

The Hulk stands as one of the most formidable superheroes in the Marvel Universe. His near-unmatched strength allows him to confront virtually any opponent, including the almost indestructible Wolverine. In a recent development, Hulk not only faces these eldritch threats but also adapts Wolverine’s most gruesome tactic to take down a fearsome adversary.

The Incredible Battle with Vârcolac

In the preview for The Incredible Hulk #21, created by Phillip Kennedy Johnson and Danny Earls, the Hulk engages in a fierce battle against a monstrous wolf-like creature known as Vârcolac. This beast, awakened by the Eldest—leader of Earth’s myriad monsters and servant of the Mother of Horrors—seeks not just to eliminate the Hulk but also to reclaim the transformative godskin of Lycana, which was previously stolen by Charlie Tidwell, Hulk’s ally. This godskin has given Charlie the power to become a winged, wolf-like creature herself, making her a capable partner in battle.

However, in the preview, Charlie is absent, leaving the Hulk to face Vârcolac alone. Initially, the odds seem heavily stacked against him. Vârcolac tosses the mighty Hulk around as if he were a mere toy and attempts to consume him, enticed by Hulk’s gamma-infused blood. Yet, the Hulk showcases his indomitable will, beginning the daunting task of tearing his way out from within this monstrous foe.

The Hulk Emulates Wolverine

Wolverine’s Iconic Gory Move

Wolverine bursting out of Hulk's stomach.

The excerpt concludes before revealing the outcome of this intense confrontation, but it hints at a particularly gruesome fate for Vârcolac. However, fans are not left to their imagination; they can refer back to the intense issues of Old Man Logan, where Wolverine executed a nearly identical move after being ingested by Hulk, dramatically bursting forth from the creature’s abdomen.

This shocking act remains one of Wolverine’s most outrageous moments and effectively established a standard for brutal comic book gore. Now, with the Hulk adopting this bloody tactic against Vârcolac, it promises to be an unforgettable, adrenalized scene that fans are eagerly awaiting.

Hulk’s Path to Redemption

Hulk Seeks Redemption through Wolverine’s Move

Marvel Comics' Hulk with an angry expression.

Interestingly, the Hulk emulating Wolverine’s signature move marks a noteworthy narrative twist, especially considering this confrontation occurs in Hulk’s own storyline. Although this Hulk may differ from the one previously encountered by Wolverine, there’s a rich, meta-textual layer to consider: this moment serves as a form of redemption for the Hulk. The memory of being defeated by Wolverine, following a sensationally brutal episode, lingers for fans. Now the Hulk has the opportunity to inflict similar devastation on his enemy, reclaiming a move that was once wielded against him.

By adopting this infamous technique to counter a powerful adversary, The Incredible Hulk #21 not only reinvigorates the character’s narrative but also solidifies his challenging legacy in the comic book realm. Set to captivate fans with its combination of gore and action, this issue is a must-read for enthusiasts who appreciate the darker side of superhero storytelling.

The Incredible Hulk #21 is scheduled for release on January 15, 2025.

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