The Epic Clash: Hulk vs. Thing in Marvel's Legendary History
Among the most legendary battles in Marvel's rich and diverse history, the encounter between the Hulk and the Thing in The Fantastic Four Issue 112 stands out as one of the most intense and captivating showdowns. This battle, drawn by the legendary artist John Buscema, set a new standard for the Hulk's encounters with other iconic Marvel characters.
The Context: The Thing's Decline and the Hulk's Arrival
Just prior to Issue 112, the Thing had gone through a significant change. He had quit the Fantastic Four and left Reed Richards' team, much to the team's disappointment. Following this, Dr. Bruce Banner sought the Thing's assistance in finding a cure for the Hulk's condition. Banner's arrival in New York City triggered the Hulk's transformation, setting the stage for an intense and crucial battle.
Buscema's Artistry and the Battle's Visuals
John Buscema, known for his exceptional ability to illustrate Marvel's characters, brought the battle to life with breathtaking detail. The intensity and brutality of the fight were portrayed with remarkable precision, showcasing both the Hulk's power and the Thing's enduring spirit. Fans of these characters are in awe of Buscema's ability to convey the raw emotion and dynamics of the clash.
A Route to Legend: The Definitive One-on-One Clash
Previous battles between the Hulk and the Thing were never conclusive. In the past, the Hulk had gained the upper hand, but the fights were too brief and inconclusive to declare a true winner. The battle detailed in Issue 112 was the first to be a true one-on-one encounter with a clear endpoint. Both combatants faced each other without interference from any teammates, and neither participant held back, making it a monumental clash in Marvel lore.
What Made This Battle Legendary?
The fight in Issue 112 took a surprising turn when the Thing heard his blind girlfriend, Alicia Masters, calling for him. Distracted by her voice, the Thing was unable to block a ferocious blow from the Hulk, rendering him unconscious. This moment, despite the outcome, set a new benchmark for the combat dynamics between the Hulk and the Thing.
The Thing boasted about his advantages over the Hulk—his speed, intelligence, and fighting ability—even as he admitted that the Hulk was larger, stronger, and more durable. Despite his confidence, the unexpected moment of distraction due to Alicia's call meant that the Thing was not able to continue his fight in the way he envisioned. The undivided attention required by the Hulk's relentless power made a decisive victory an unrealistic goal for the Thing.
The Significance of the Battle
This battle in Issue 112 stands as a turning point in the history of Marvel comics. It set the standard for future clashes between the Hulk and other formidable characters, and it is remembered for its intensity and the raw emotion it evoked. The Thing, known for his popularity and the numerous battles he had fought, stood as a constant rival to the Hulk, and their clash in Issue 112 provided a definitive moment in their ongoing narrative.
To date, the hugeness of their rivalry has resonated with fans and continues to influence the way these characters are portrayed. The legacy of this particular battle remains a crucial part of Marvel's ongoing saga, with both the Thing and the Hulk serving as iconic representatives of the universe's genre-defining battles and conflicts.