MCU Hulk vs. 10 Marvel Comic Fights: Could He Win?

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In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it was expected that Hulk would be one of the strongest characters, but given the latest insights into Bruce Banner’s journey, I now doubt that the MCU’s Hulk could triumph in battles his comic book version easily handled. The transformation of Hulk into “Smart Hulk” in the MCU has significantly altered the character, a change that has sparked debate among fans. Although the current MCU Hulk possesses humanity and intelligence, there’s a notable absence of Savage Hulk’s raw anger that was a staple in the franchise.

Physical might alone doesn’t rule the day in every situation. Both the most powerful and the least strong Avengers have made significant contributions to their shared universe. While strength can be crucial, there are times when things get more complex. That said, immense power and strength have often been key elements of the Hulk character, deeply intertwined with his Marvel Comics narratives. Reflecting on these battles underscores just how integral those aspects are to shaping the Hulk’s storylines.

10. Hulk Vs Skaar

Skaar Comes To Earth To Kill His Father

In the world of comics, Skaar is known as Hulk’s son, and they have clashed on numerous occasions. Typically, when it comes to a direct confrontation between the two, Hulk appears to be the stronger, effortlessly fending off Skaar in battles such as those depicted in Skaar: Son Of Hulk #12. However, the comics also hint at Skaar’s unique ability to challenge his father in ways beyond sheer strength. This is due to his link with The Old Power, a force reminiscent of Silver Surfer’s Power Cosmic, granting him capabilities like manipulating earth and lava.

Considering the circumstances, it’s plausible that Skaar could overpower the MCU Hulk in a confrontation. This is primarily due to the fact that the compassionate and non-violent Smart Hulk might hesitate to harm his son, whereas the comic book Hulk has fewer qualms about attacking his own child.

9. Hulk Vs Sentry

Hulk Was Able To Defeat Sentry In World War Hulk #5

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Sentry is portrayed as one of the most potent characters, even surpassing the Avengers according to Valentina in the Thunderbolts series. However, despite this reputation, during World War Hulk, Sentry and Hulk clashed, with Hulk emerging victorious. By exploiting Sentry’s fear, Hulk managed to defeat him using his immense rage in the comics.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, the Hulk isn’t channeling his rage as he once did, implying he might not be able to access the highest levels of his power right now. Instead of embracing his fury, a more measured and serene Hulk seeks inner tranquility. He avoids harnessing the strength that comes with anger. Although we haven’t seen all of the Sentry’s powers in the MCU yet, if he possesses even a fraction of his comic book abilities – as hinted at in Thunderbolts – it seems unlikely that Hulk could overpower him at present.

8. Hulk Vs Onslaught

Hulk’s Rage Was So Strong That His Punch Blew Up The Universe

In the comic books, during a fierce battle with the powerful psionic antagonist Onslaught – a villain formed from the combined subconsciousness of Professor X and Magneto – the presence of Banner was suppressed within the Hulk’s mind. With this achieved, the Hulk was free to fully unleash his fury. This allowed him to punch Onslaught with such immense force that it shattered Onslaugth’s armor and transformed him into a being comprised solely of “raw psionic energy“. In the graphic novel “Hulk: Grand Design – Madness #1”, this is depicted as “the Hulk hit Onslaught so hard he disintegrated“, although it appears to slightly alter the sequence of events from the original storyline.

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Hulk’s powers and rage are far less intense compared to their portrayal in other media. Contrary to popular belief, Hulk’s strength doesn’t solely stem from his anger; rather, it seems challenging for either Hulk or anyone else to control or suppress this fury. If a villain like Onslaught were to face the Hulk post-MCU X-Men reboot, the ensuing battle would likely be depicted quite differently.

7. Hulk Vs Hercules

Hercules Is More Resilient To Cosmic Forces

In most Marvel tales, Hulk’s power is adjusted based on his role, yet it seems evident that the Hulk’s strength in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been reduced relative to the comics. This implies a potential one-sided battle between Hulk and Hercules; given Hercules’ appearance in “Thor: Love and Thunder,” this version of the character might defeat or at least match up against the Hulk.

In various Marvel comics, Hercules and the Hulk have frequently clashed, with the outcomes often inconclusive or suggesting that the Hulk emerged victorious. These instances where the Hulk appears to win usually occur when he’s at his most brutal and powerful, like in “World War Hulk,” a scenario where the Hulk overpowers Hercules due to his lack of resistance. However, given the more compassionate portrayal of the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), it seems unlikely that he would be able to maintain these aggressive tendencies. As such, a draw or perhaps a victory for Hercules might be more plausible if they were to fight now.

6. Hulk Vs Absorbing Man

Hulk’s Comic Book Powers Are Far Greater Than In The Films

In the comic books, Hulk successfully battles Absorbing Man; however, I’m unsure if the Marvel Cinematic Universe version of Hulk could manage the same victory. Absorbing Man is a formidable adversary who can mimic the characteristics of objects he touches, potentially absorbing Hulk’s powers, including his immense strength, and turning them against him in the process.

In the comics, Hulk was victorious due to his powers amplifying from his anger, which proved too much for Absorbing Man to counterbalance. However, in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Hulk’s abilities do not appear to escalate so dramatically when facing adversaries, as demonstrated by his incapacitation against Thanos in “Avengers: Infinity War.” This suggests that Hulk might struggle to defeat Absorbing Man in the MCU.

5. Hulk Vs Doctor Strange

Magic Is Far Too Strong In The MCU

On several comic book occasions, Hulk and Doctor Strange have clashed. In the storyline “World War Hulk”, it was thought that Strange could effortlessly conquer Hulk. Yet, Hulk managed to shatter Strange’s hands, stripping him of his magical powers. Without magic, Strange was defeated by Hulk. However, I don’t foresee such situations happening in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

In the movies, Hulk isn’t as violently destructive as he’s often portrayed, and even in his rage-filled state, he’s not prone to such extreme violence. However, it’s crucial to note that in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), the magical powers wielded by Strange seem significantly more powerful. For instance, in “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” Strange effortlessly confined some of the most formidable Marvel villains within magical cages without any trouble at all. It’s hard to envision a scenario where this version of Strange would have difficulty overpowering or even subduing the Hulk from the MCU.

4. Hulk Vs Juggernaut

Juggernaut’s Abilities Are Similar To Hulk’s

Juggernaut is among the most remarkable villains in the X-Men universe, and his abilities provide a fascinating contrast to those of the Hulk. The idea of these two powerhouses colliding, with Hulk’s strength escalating as his anger surges, appears to set the stage for an unending battle. Luckily, these encounters have resulted in resolutions within the comic books, with both Hulk and Juggernaut emerging victorious based on specific conditions.

Depending on which version of Juggernaut appears in the MCU, it’s challenging to envision the Hulk, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, overpowering him. The antagonist’s strength, abilities, and momentum would intensify as he confronts the Hulk. On the other hand, the Hulk’s powers in the MCU have limitations, suggesting that Juggernaut might prevail in this match-up.

3. Hulk Vs Wolverine

Sometimes The Bigger Hero Has To Win

Despite Hulk being larger than Wolverine physically, it’s Wolverine who has achieved greater hero status within Marvel films. Originally intended as an adversary for Hulk, their powers are surprisingly evenly matched in terms of strength and resilience. As Hulk grows stronger with his rage, Wolverine shows remarkable tenacity by getting back up after taking severe beatings. This dynamic has resulted in varying outcomes in the comics, with Hulk occasionally prevailing over Wolverine.

From my perspective as a fan, the big-screen version of Wolverine is a highly respected hero, with his extraordinary abilities consistently emphasized across the Fox X-Men series and even in the film “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Given this, it appears that both of Hugh Jackman’s portrayals of Wolverine are marked by an intense anger, ferocity, and unwavering commitment to a violent cause. When pitted against Hulk, Wolverine has a significant advantage beyond brute strength, as his uncanny ability to never truly lose a fight suggests that he may ultimately emerge victorious, no matter the circumstances.

2. Hulk Vs Maestro Hulk

Maestro Represents The Most Terrifying Path For The Hulk

In the 1990s, Maestro made his debut in the Marvel Universe, portraying a future version of the Hulk. His world suffered an immense nuclear war, leading to a blend of Bruce Banner’s intellect with the brutal violence of the Savage Hulk. This amalgamation was frightening and brought about much turmoil for the Hulk in the comics, despite eventually overpowering Maestro.

In their initial comic fight, Smart Hulk might deceive Maestro in a manner similar to Professor Hulk, but that alone won’t lead to Maestro’s complete defeat. Bombarding him with nuclear radiation that transforms Banner into the Hulk merely subdues him temporarily. To truly vanquish Maestro, it’s not about recognizing him, but rather through the raw determination of Savage Hulk – a side that Smart Hulk appears to have suppressed, making such a victory seem unattainable at this time.

1. Hulk Vs The Avengers

Hulk Could Not Defeat His Entire Team In The MCU

In Avengers #3, an early dispute between Hulk and the Avengers ensues, resulting in a fierce confrontation involving characters like Iron Man, Thor, Giant-Man and others. However, it’s not just the Avengers that Hulk is up against; he joins forces with Namor in this battle. This fight gets intense, and due to his immense strength, Hulk inflicts substantial damage on his adversaries. As one of the most powerful Avengers, he manages to keep up in the struggle, finding a strategic edge as long as he remains in his Hulk persona.

Over time, the Hulk has been depicted as one of the strongest Avengers. However, the movies also explore the concept that they can manage his outbursts. In films like “Thor: Ragnarok”, Thor handles the Hulk using inventive methods, and the Hulkbuster provides a formidable challenge for him, hinting that the entire team could have controlled him if needed. As for the new team’s lineup, it remains unclear, but given Sam Wilson’s Captain America has experience in calming enraged Hulks, as demonstrated in “Captain America: Brave New World” during his conflict with Red Hulk, it seems likely that they too could handle similar situations.

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2025-05-02 21:11