In one of the most memorable moments in Marvel Comics, the Hulk’s encounter with the X-Men during the “World War Hulk” saga is a defining example of his immense power and deep-seated rage.
Following a devastating betrayal and personal loss, Hulk’s return to Earth is marked by a single-minded mission to confront those he holds responsible, starting with the X-Men.
Here’s how this epic showdown unfolded, leaving the X-Men utterly defeated.
Hulk’s Arrival at the X-Mansion
The clash begins when Hulk arrives at the X-Mansion, seeking to confront the entire roster of X-Men.
His entrance is nothing short of dramatic, with his raw power on full display.
The young mutants first face his wrath, quickly finding themselves outmatched and overwhelmed by Hulk’s sheer strength and ferocity.
Despite a temporary setback when one mutant manages to strip Hulk of his healing factor, the Hulk’s vulnerability is short-lived.
Rather than weakening him, the loss of his healing abilities only fuels his anger.
He responds to the mutants’ combined assault with a devastating counterattack, knocking out everyone with a single, catastrophic punch.
This moment is a stark reminder of Hulk’s unstoppable nature, even when at a disadvantage.
The situation grows more dire as Cyclops attempts to intervene, firing his optic beams at maximum power.
However, this effort proves futile against Hulk’s resilience.
He brushes off the attack and counters with a powerful thunderclap, knocking out the remaining members of the team.
Even Colossus, known for his incredible strength and steel-like skin, finds himself overpowered, suffering broken arms at the hands of the enraged Hulk.
Wolverine’s Defeat
Wolverine, often seen as one of the toughest and most tenacious of the X-Men, is also swiftly incapacitated.
Knowing the extreme healing factor of Wolverine, Hulk poses a chilling question about the consequences of Wolverine’s brain continuously impacting the inside of his adamantium skull, before rendering him unconscious.
This encounter not only highlights Hulk’s physical dominance but also his strategic and somewhat cruel calculation in battle.
Final Thoughts
The Hulk’s takedown of the X-Men is complete and utter, leaving no doubt about his dominance or the depth of his wrath.
This confrontation isn’t just about displaying his physical prowess; it’s also a cathartic release of his pent-up anger and sorrow.
The X-Men, despite their powers and teamwork, could not withstand the fury of a heartbroken and betrayed Hulk.
This brutal encounter serves as a critical chapter in the “World War Hulk” storyline, illustrating Hulk’s power and the emotional motivations driving his rampage.
It’s a stark portrayal of what happens when one of Marvel’s mightiest heroes turns his anger towards those he perceives as enemies.
Spoiler alert: later, he encounters and defeats almost all of the Marvel heroes, including Doctor Strange with his mind attack and the Sentry, one of the most powerful heroes in Marvel.
And it turns out in the end that there is someone else that planted the bomb wiping out Hulk’s beloved ones on Skaar.
To learn the full story, look for “World War Hulk” issues (2007-2008).