The diabolical new version of theHulkis so powerful even Mephisto, one of theMarvel Universe’s most powerful beings, can’t control it.Hulk is often considered the standard-bearer for strengthin Marvel lore, which naturally means an infernal incarnation is bound to be among the most dangerous creatures in existence.
The preview forHellverine#8, written by Benjamin Percy, with art by Raffaele Ienco,continues to develop the new Hell Hulk character, highlighting what a force to be reckoned with he is.
The pages show Hell Hulk rampaging through the underworld, indicating that Mephisto himself has fled rather than face this fearsome foe.
Marvel Confirms Hell Hulk Is So Powerful Even Mephisto Doesn’t Want To Mess With Him
Hellverine#8, Written By Benjamin Percy, Art By Raffaele Ienco, Color By Bryan Valenza, Lettering By Travis Lanham
Hellverineis already a gonzo combination of elements, bringing Wolverine’s son Akihiro, who possesses abilities similar to his famous father, back from the deadwith Ghost Rider’s powers. For a longtime secondary character, it has been a thrilling promotion to the lead of his own solo title for Akihiro, while also delivering a satisfying, emotionally resonant character arc.
The confrontation between these two hellbound variants of the characters is a dark full circle moment in Marvel history.
The last several issues have escalated the stakes considerably, with the introduction of Hell Hulk.Hellverine#8 features the character in full-on rampage mode, tearing through the underworld in the direction of Mephisto’s demonic throne, only to find it vacated, implying that the lord of hell has lost control of Hell Hulk, and even fears him.
The introduction of Hell Hulk is apropos at this early stage in Akihiro’s heroic journey as Hellverine; of course, fifty years ago, Wolverine was first introduced to the Marvel Universe as anadversary of the Hulk. So, in a sense, the confrontation between these two hellbound variants of the characters is a dark full circle moment in Marvel history.
Fans Are Ready For More Hell Hulk, But Can The Marvel Universe Handle It?
Hellverine#8, Cover By Kendrick Lim; Variant Cover By Justin Mason
Hell Hulk complicates things for Hellverine, in the best possible way, and takes this hellish interpretation of classic Marvel characters to an entirely new level. As always when the forces of the underworld are meddled with, it is possible that Benjamin Percy and Marvel don’t realize exactly what they have unleashed upon the world.
That is to say, Hell Hulk could easily be a throwaway character, but he could also be an unexpected breakout hit. Given the wayMarvel has established him as a ferocious powerhouse over just a couple issues, coupled with the novel twist on the classic Hulk design, the character could prove to be unexpectedly popular.
In any case, whatever happens inHellverine#8, the solicitation for the following issue makes it clear things will get worse before they get better. It reads:
HELL ON EARTH! HELL HULK has opened a GATE TO HELL… and it’s going to take more than HELLVERINE to close that particular door!
Meaning, the rest of the Marvel Universe better get ready to meet thisdemonic new incarnation ofHulk, but there’s little they can do to truly be prepared.
