THE HOOD versus TIGRA
The Trust: Part Four (Marvel comics)
Where: New Avengers #35 When: December 2007
Why: Brian Michael Bendis How: Leinil Yu

The story so far...
Parker Robbins, aka; The Hood; has begun a quest to become the kingpin of supercriminals, and with Earth's mightiest heroes divided after the civil war, and harboring suspicions of a Skrull incursion; his success rate is high.

After suffering a brutal defeat at the hands of the Avenger, Tigra; underworld stalwart and longtime Punisher adversary, Jigsaw, finds an invitation waiting for him, after an adrenaline fuelled getaway. Tired of his many defeats, the hideously scarred hitman ventures out to become part of the Hood's organization.

As a show of power to the heroes, and a gesture of good faith to the pledging Jigsaw; the Hood turns his many powers to seeking out Greer Grant, better known as registered Initiative agent; Tigra. Privvy to a great many secrets, the aspiring kingpin of supercrime has no trouble locating the feline fatale, and sets out to exact retribution.

Previous Form:
Tigra (#253): Joined the Pro-Registration Avengers on their domination of the Anti-Registrants.
The Hood: Making his debut in the Infinite Wars.

Tale of the tape...
Strength: Tigra 2 (Average)
Intelligence: The Hood 4 (Tactician)
Speed: Tigra 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Draw 3 (Strong Willed)
Agility: Tigra 5 (Cat-like)
Fighting Ability: Draw 3 (Street Wise)
Energy Powers: The Hood 4 (Explosives)


- A career thief; Parker Robbins would fullfil an underlying lifetime ambition to become a supervillain when, whilst robbing a warehouse said to contain unspecified treasures, is revealed to house the demon Nistanti.

After taking the demon's mystically charged boots and cloak, Robbins would soon discover he was in possession of powers that could elevate him to a status comparable of his villainous inspiration, Electro.

As The Hood, Robbins is capable of defying gravity by effectively walking on air, can turn invisible for as long as he can hold his breath, is capable of generating energy bolts, and continues to carry his weapon of choice, two hand pistols.

Perhaps inspired by Wilson Fisk; the Kingpin of crime his father had worked with; Robbins has begun a path to form a unified network of super powered criminals. With the aim of becoming the Kingpin of Supervillains, the Hood relies on guile and cunning, as much as the unique application of his mystic powers.

- Originally beginning her career with the costumed enhancements designed by Dr. Joanne Tumulo; Greer Grant embarked on a crime fighting journey as simply the Cat. Her adventures would bring her into confrontations with the terrorist organisation, HYDRA, and after being mortally wounded in such a battle, Grant would soon discover Tumulo's secret origins despite her death.

Rescued by the ancient reclusive race of Cat-People, the dying Greer Grant was granted a second chance at life, and the super human abilities of the legendary mystic champion, the Tigra! Possessing speed, strength, reflexes, and senses far keener than mere mortals, Grant becomes a brand new hero, and eventually becomes a stalwart of Earth's mightiest heroes - the Avengers!

The Math: The Hood The Pick: Tigra

What went down...
Doing her best to negotiate the opportunity to remain active in New York; Greer Grant strolls home after a long day on the beat as a registered superhero.
A transfer to Arkansas is about to become the least of her problems, as she transforms from woman, to Tigra, sensing the presence of an unwelcome guest in her humble abode.

The Hood emerges from invisibility, and immediately splatters the unsuspecting heroine's blood with the butt of his gun. The pistol whip maneuver knocks Tigra off her feet, leaving her open to a following shove that puts her face through her boutique mirror.

A second pistol whip on the way down further stuns the registered Avenger, but the fight isn't yet taken out of the mythic hero. From the floor she slashes wildly with her feline claws at the ready, but the Hood is wile enough to call upon his powers of intangibility just in the nick of time.

With unforgiving precision Parker Robbins fires a single bullet that hurtles into Tigra's knee. The Hood snatches Tigra by the hair and dials a number on a cellphone while reciting the address and details of her beloved mother.

Having heard the concerned voice of a mother, the Hood snaps the phone shut, and delivers his manifesto to Tigra. In no uncertain terms he demands Tigra's unquestioning obediance in exchange for her mother's safety, to be observed however, and whenever he demands, with the inclusion of leaving his villainous recruits immune.

Through a haze of pain and blood, Tigra pleads for the Hood to stop.
The aspiring Kingpin repeatedly asks the heroine if she "Got it?", beating her every time she fails to answer with anything less than a certainty.

Each horrifying blow is captured on videotape by the sneering Jigsaw; highlights to be paraded at the gathering of villains as proof of The Hood's intentions to take the fight to the heroes.

The hammer...
Suffice to say The Hood is on the road to becoming every bit the supervillain kingpin he hopes to be. Of course, with unconditional backing from the writers controlling your destiny, that's hardly surprising. Ohhhh, lifting the curtain to spoil the magic!

The Infinite Wars are governed by a good many things, and while there are many a classic fight that's gone unnoted thus far, there are certain battles we feel an obligation to cover. This one is among them.

I decided an early Christmas present was in order, to catch up on some of my New Avengers reading. These issues probably weren't at the top of my wishlist, but I decided the cost was worthwhile, given the sheer prevelance of this very battle. It was during House of M hype that someone infamously said events would 'rip the internet in half', and while Hawkeye's interdimensional return to life was met with mostly an indecypherable groan, it was the brutalizing of Tigra that made the internet stand up and start talking.

It should be well documented that Bendis' work traditionally attracts a fairly critical eye in these kinds of reviews. As one of the most talked about and analysed writers in mainstream comics, it's particularly easy to be enthusiastic about taking a look at a piece of his work in the positive, or negative, particularly given the polarizing nature of his output.

Blatantly bucking against a popular fanboy terror of speaking out of turn; I'm generally not too worried about being wrong. I think, as a man of intelligence and season, I can make reasonably good assessments of things based on information available, and do so with a willingness to admit error.

A few months ago I gladly indulged in the hype surrounding this event, even despite being vividly familiarized with the broad specifics of the issue. Ultimately it was a harmless gag [Poor, poor Tigra] referring, without much success, I assume, to the undeniable influence Frank Miller has had on Brian Bendis' writing.

Bendis is far from my favourite person in the world, with different ideals and standards than my own. That said, as a writer, he often meets on a similar ground as myself, and it's here that I inadvertently defend his work, as somewhat expected [Daredevil #75].

Much of the so-called "feminist" criticism of this issue came from the brutality by which Tigra was disarmed, the degree by which she was seen to retaliate, and the sinister undertones that even potentially implied pseudo rape.

While I'm not inclined to deliberately attempt to undermine those opinions, I do find myself somewhat steered by the same law of logic that prevents me from mercilessly heckling Bendis at every available opportunity. I feel obligated, particularly to the uninformed readers who seek the high-priced value of accuracy in the Infinite Wars, to review good as good, bad as a bad, red as red.

Again recalling Bendis' fairly obvious connection to history established by writers like Miller; we track back through New Avengers back issues, where one of the most famous depictions of murder with a phallic metaphorical undertone, was recreated not once, but twice, without much recourse.

Granted, the circumstances were less overtly sinister, and the exchange between two female characters, but while this potentially undermines the consistency of outraged muckrakers, I hope to purvey a different point. A point about the consistency and context of this world that has presented the videotaped beating of a superhero.

Ultimately, I don't think Bendis' writing makes any effort to factor the character's sex into the scenario. While it would be fair to draw sexualized conclusions from the scene, the barebones of the action are that of an ambush attack on a hero of a fairly low grade power. As you'll observe in the tape, we rate Tigra in a class beneath The Hood, whose powers are far more versatile than Tigra's basic human upgrades.

This could potentially have been an assault on any number of male characters, with Frank Castle mentioned immediately after the scene. Granted, the same statement of intent could've been made with such a character, he traditionally isn't inclined to be subject to manipulation, which is the secondary intent of this scene. Tigra, a character seen to have shifting alliances in many stories recently, now finds herself forced into a corner to obey the villains.

To again refer to well known references in Bendis' creative repetoire, The Shield comes to mind. A cop series differentiated by it's uncompromising depiction of the urban warzone, and the harsh interactions of humans within it.

So, is the material offensive? Ultimately, at best I could indulge an argument of content in a mainstream superhero comic, but to anyone looking, the book does clearly bare the Marvel rating of A for Adult*. Whether or not it's fair to direct one of your A-list superhero team books to a mature audience is debatable, particularly in a world where Marvel have been smart enough to produce a growing line of kid-friendly Adventures books, the Avengers included.

*EDIT (Dec 8, 2007): Matt rightly points out that I really should've checked up on the Marvel ratings. A is an unspecified category recommending readers be age nine and up. I wouldn't be up in arms, but I would agree that this kind of violence might be a bit better managed to readers thirteen and up.

I personally enjoy and feel the gritty reality of the world these heroes live in is crucial to the legitimacy of the genre. If superheroes are going to maintain their majority stock in the medium, they have to be seen to be earning it, and as most fans well know, the sok, pow, shazam of days past is embarassingly referred to as 'the sound of comics trying to grow up.'

No, this kind of material isn't the mark of maturity or good writing.
It's simply a facet with very specific real world references that good writing can latch on to, and represent for a quota I think is essential if anyone is to take these worlds of super criminals seriously. Bendis juxtaposes this brilliantly with his dismal superhero outings in the first twenty-or-so issues of the New Avengers titles, pressed up against this latest array of on-going, fluid, grounded takes on the Avengers characters and the perils they face.

He may be an absolute tit, but I think it's an unfair, and preconvinced agenda that comes to a comic like this, and completely overlooks it's context and reality. Maybe, like my own (initially), some opinions are based only on the information available from second-hand sources. Sources that perhaps don't expand the context, or highlight images like the shadowed portion of the assault, or the gathering of supervillains who revel in the modern, YouTube happy slap style screening of the incident.

We've discussed it before [Superman/Batman #15], but I think it bares repeating: Like action movie stars, the best characters are the ones who are affected by the perils that surround them. Likewise, to shy away from the great evils that exist out there, is to discount the acknowledgment and bredth of the heroes who face them. Without crime to overcome, the hero is meaningless.

And that, no doubt, is not the last you'll hear of the Tigra affair.
Be encouraged to lodge any opinions you might have, and stay tuned for, what I hope, will be some interesting furthering of the discussion. We'll have to wait and see how that one pans out.

Meanwhile, as if this massive entry wasn't a big enough deal as it was, it's also the epic night of fights! Let The Hood's message ring out to the superheroes and Bahlactus alike, for the new Kingpin of Super-Crime means business!
Do you mean business? Once you've finished browsing the annals of the Infinite Wars, why not check yourself in to a world of pain perspective, as per Friday Night Fights!

The Fight: 4.5 The Issue: 5.5

Leinil Yu continues to be an aboslute treat on this book, delivering kinetic, sketchy inks. Dave McCaig joins Dave Stewart for a colour palette by scanner struggles to come to terms with, but consider that a compliment more than a complaint! It's too early to find this work in trade, but you might like to check out the previous arc while you wait! Sweet Christmas!

FANTASY FIGHTS: DC/MARVEL ROUND 3!
By popular demand, the Infinite Wars are about to go where they've never been before! After two years of comprehensive canonical fight fact coverage, we're delving into the fictional world of fantasy fights, because you demanded it!

In the spirit of the immensly popular '96 DC/Marvel crossover event, we're pitting fifteen of each company's most relevant characters to 2007 against one and other! Stay tuned as we take a look at the imagine struggles of the superhero stars that have propelled the Infinite Wars across two full years of fisticuffs!

AQUAMAN versus SUB-MARINER
Strength: Sub-Mariner 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Draw 4 (Tactician)
Speed: Sub-Mariner 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Sub-Mariner 5 (Marathon Man)
Agility: Sub-Mariner 3 (Acrobat)
Fighting Ability: Sub-Mariner 6 (Warrior)
Energy Powers: Aquaman 2 (Projectile)


The Hook...
Ten years ago this section might've made for a vaguely amusing Aquaman pun, but in a year that saw the final decline of the character into succeeded mud-mush, there just isn't much point. I'm a little sketchy on the details myself, but at last check, Aquaman's real name is now Orin, and he's been turned into someone/something called the Dweller of the Deep.

Significance to 2007 takes a backseat here, because if I were asked to choose one fight from the original DC vs Marvel to recount, it would be Aquaman/Namor.
Two reasons make this, of all the contested results, the most glaring to myself, and many others. One is the fact that the decision to crown Aquaman over the Sub-Mariner was made without even the unfortunate influence of deranged fan votes; and two is because the Hulk-battling scion of the seven seas was taken out by a whale. A whale. The very thing he is said to be stronger than at the beginning of the cartoon theme...

If you don't know, apparently ol' Aqua-pants found himself turned into this Dweller of the Deep when he emplored the sea gods to grant him the strength to save both the original denizens of Sub-Diego, and the last survivors of Atlantis. Oh, yeah. Apparently during his anti-magic genocidal rampage, the Spectre saw fit to wipe out half of the Atlantean population, leading to this ultimate integration of the two sea-dwelling species.

Meanwhile; over in the other side of the universal divide; the Sub-Mariner has been subverting justice as a member of the Illuminati, and investigating Civil War profiteering schemes with a small army of Atlantean sleeper agents.
When he hasn't been quietly lounging in his throne room; he's been butting heads with Wolverine or Venom; and finally, dispersing the Atlantean populous throughout humanity, whilst forming an alliance with former Super Villain Team-Up partner, Dr. Doom!

Both character has no doubt garnered the suspicions of fellow superhero secret santa participants, with each retreating into their self-contained domains to hatch plans, and generally loom around kinda sinister. Still, even with his crazy man of the sea routine, Aquaman bites, and so does swordy Aqualite, who's since been cancelled.

The Math: Sub-Mariner (Meta Class) Ranking: Sub-Mariner (#16)

The Battle...
As much as we'd all like to see Sub-Mariner torpedo his way through the water to knock Aquadud into the next hemisphere, we have to give Curry-Come-Second some credit.

Through the glut of stories that are presumably as painful as they sound, Aquaman's actually amped himself up to have powers that might actually give the Marvel stud a run for his money.

Alright, for the most part those new powers seem to involve being mysterious, vague, and having occasionally convenient magical powers, but I tend to think these are still, at best, stalling tactics.

When the Sub-Mariner washes into warmer waters, he becomes aware of the apparent shift in his realm. From within the shadowy gloom of the depths, a voice lingers, recounting the tale of the last time the two kings clashed.

Despite inevitable demands for the voice to show itself, the Sub-Mariner is strategically patient in indulging the Dweller of the Deep's vague prophecies of doom and gloom for the aquatic underworld. Able to tolerate no more; Namor makes his move, launching through weed and rock to clutch the garb of the aged Dweller.

In an echo of their last confrontation; the Dweller summons a horrible sea behemoth to battle the brawn of the Sub-Mariner, Imperius Rex!

Despite being initially overcome by the creature's size and speed, the Sub-Mariner battles with the heart and power of a true king, wrenching freedom from the maw of the fanged beast!

Having fought the behemoth into submission, Namor lets loose the cry of, "Imperius Rex!", before renewing his attack on the grizzled Dweller of the Deep. Having been stripped of his mercy's by the last attack, Namor grapples with his older foe with the intent to tear him limb from limb, but something changes. As he desperately grips Orin by the throat, the Sub-Mariner finds his limbs no longer entirely responsive to his imperial command.

Feeling the full effects of vintage Aquaman, Namor struggles to resist the telepathic influence Orin has over all acquatic creatures. The Dweller drifts slowly away from Namor's reach, while the mutant monarch writhes in space, struggling to come to terms with what's happening to him.

Calling upon his famous will, the Sub-Mariner battles through the haze of Aquaman's mental attack, clutching his garb to deliver a knock-out blow.

The Hammer...
Gah! As much as a cakewalk would've satisfied those dark, dirty fanboy urges, the creating mind simply cannot deny what is a battle of great potential! As noted earlier, I'm really not aware of Aquaman's abilities as Orin, Dweller of the Deep, but hopefully an exercise in his classic abilities can be excused of any inaccuracy for it's demand to be explored.

Though the fan vote factor has often been used to discount the results of battles like Lobo/Wolverine and Wonder Woman/Storm; we have to give Peter David some credit for his work on the original Aquaman/Sub-Mariner confrontation.
I mean, sure, the execution might not have been great, but ultimately those fights that weren't voted upon were there to flesh the whole thing out, while respecting the overall vote tally which, as we know, went to Marvel. Which means David had the unadmirable task of writing a battle that couldn't be ignored, but had to go to Aquaman by numbers.

Of course, as inferred, that grace only goes so far as the result, and studied here was the plausible, if minor, effect Aquaman's telepathy could've had. Sure, we also highlight the fact that Sub-Mariner is well known for his hard headed willpower, but in an effort to deliver a more satisfactory than plonking a killer whale on top of a guy who flings Thing and Hulk around for fun, it might've been nice to see.

Agree or disagree? Disappointed not to see the new Aquaman in the fray?
These fantasy fights are for the fans, so why not drop a comment? It might be too late to change the result, but there's always hope of a retraction!
WINNER: Sub-Mariner

2 versus 1

FANTASY FIGHTS: DC/MARVEL ROUND 2!
By popular demand, the Infinite Wars are about to go where they've never been before! After two years of comprehensive canonical fight fact coverage, we're delving into the fictional world of fantasy fights, because you demanded it!

In the spirit of the immensly popular '96 DC/Marvel crossover event, we're pitting fifteen of each company's most relevant characters to 2007 against one and other! Stay tuned as we take a look at the imagine struggles of the superhero stars that have propelled the Infinite Wars across two full years of fisticuffs!

CATWOMAN versus TIGRA
Strength: Draw 2 (Average)
Intelligence: Catwoman 3 (Straight A)
Speed: Draw 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Catwoman 4 (Athlete)
Agility: Tigra 5 (Cat-Like)
Fighting Ability: Catwoman 4 (Trained Fighter)
Energy Powers: Draw 1 (None)


The Hook...
As is typical of the Infinite Wars; we're servicing several different objectives when indulging in the age-old art of fantasy fights. Sure, we get to have some speculative fun, and we get to do something that's a little bit different, without being radically removed from our usual regime. That said, at the spine of it all is a partial intention to reflect on characters that have had significant roles in 2007.

It was mere months ago that Tigra made headlines for, quite possibly, the first time in the character's existence. It was as a victim. And to questionable benefit for Marvel/Bendis' latest silly playtoy; would-be supervillain kingpin, The Hood; that Tigra was demoralized and physically destroyed [in a much less disappointing way than the now late, and apparently NO LONGER peacefully reformed, Phillip Masters -- if I do say so myself - Mastermind Mike]

Catwoman, as we all know, has had plenty of criminal underworld problems of her own, albeit with much more resonating results. She fell pregnant, took a year off, and ultimately gave up a child that would live under constant threat if she were to keep it. I think there may have been a faked death in there too, although, I don't know how that factors into Gotham Underground, Batman & The Outsiders, OR Salvation Run. Suffice to say, at the very least, no one can argue Catwoman's status in Season 07/08!

You might say the theme here is of sexually empowered female superheroes. Maybe it's of characters who've repeatedly played the double agent in recent times of Civil Wars, Amazonian Attacks, and societal unions between villains.
Ultimately, this is two characters on roughly equal terms of a feline nature, and in the tradition of DC vs Marvel, that's all we need.

The Math: Catwoman (Champion Class) Ranking: Catwoman (#27)

The Battle...
Having done this dance before [vs Elektra] and suffered the bruises of a total mismatch; Catwoman doesn't stop to resist, question, or even contemplate the nature of this battle. In the grimey shadow of an alley, Catwoman descends upon her scantily clad counterpart.

The element of surprise proves less prominent that it seems as Tigra, having sensed the Catwoman in the shadows with her keen animal senses, rolls through the attack to toss her opponent into the adjacent brick wall.

Catwoman is on her feet fast, as the two circle in the darkness like alley cats sizing each other up. Acrobatics are abandoned as these two street level vixens collide in an exchange of fists, kicks, and unforgiving claw swipes.

Relatively evenly matched, the two leap backward, putting distance between them while they both attempt to restrategize. With Catwoman being perhaps the slightly more skilled of the two, she easily evades the more primal brutality of Tigra's attempt to press her agility and strength.

Playing for keeps; Catwoman reaches for the whip with absolutely none of the irony you might expect. With the fate of a world on the line, Catwoman lashes as the readily exposed flesh of Tigra, slicing her into submission. With her opponent on the ropes, Catwoman delivers a title winning knock-out blow.

Leaving her opponent bloodied and hanging by the whip from a fire escape; Catwoman walks away with a smirk; "Honey, don't you know fur is murder?"

The Hammer...
For me, one of my favourite elements of the Catwoman character is without a doubt her sly wit and radiant, oft-times cheeky, confidence. As a writing exercise I chose to respond to recent developments by playing the scene much harsher, and to the point. Something I personally regard as a plausible, street level scrap between two seasoned urban fighters.

Tigra's choice of attire which amounts to less than a typical bikini is hard to go past, especially against today's utilitarian Catwoman. I don't know if the furr gag is quite as sophisticated as Catwoman should be, but it was an easy gag, and I'm going to cop-out and blame it on trying to bang this out past deadline.

I'm trying to look at more balanced combat, and while I give the fight to Catwoman, I think it's much more evenly matched than her pseudo-canonical throwdown with uber assassin, Elektra. Thief somehow doesn't quite measure up, no matter the medieval association.

Agree, disagree, or think I've overlooked something obvious in my haste? Be sure to drop a comment and let us all know how you would've done it, or if there might have been a better opponent for either, or!
WINNER: Catwoman

2 versus 0

IN STORES: December 05, 2007
You can probably find complete shipping list updates on most major comics sites. Consider this an opportunity to either do all your info-shopping in the one place, or get a speculative perspective on what might be worth checking out. These are untested reads. Secret Wars on Infinite Earths can offer no guarantee or endorsement of quality. These are simply titles that may be of potential interest. Some items may ship late.

The list...
SEP078123 ACTION COMICS #858 2ND PTG $3.50
OCT072084 ANNIHILATION CONQUEST #2 (OF 6) $2.99
OCT073753 ATOMIC ROBO #3 (OF 6) $2.95
OCT070118 COUNTDOWN ARENA #1 (OF 4) $3.99
OCT070114 COUNTDOWN TO FINAL CRISIS 21 $2.99
JUL070020 ESCAPISTS HC $19.95
OCT072008 FEARLESS #2 (OF 4) $2.99
OCT072096 HOUSE OF M AVENGERS #2 (OF 5) $2.99
OCT072098 HOWARD THE DUCK #3 (OF 4) $2.99
OCT070142 INFINITY INC #4 $2.99
SEP070196 JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #15 $2.99
OCT070211 JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED #40 $2.25
OCT070174 JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #11 $2.99
OCT070015 LOBSTER JOHNSON IRON PROMETHEUS #4 (OF 5) $2.99
JUL071933 MADMAN AND THE ATOMICS VOL 1 TP $24.99
OCT071968 OVERMAN #1 (OF 5) (MR) $3.50
AUG072034 SUBURBAN GLAMOUR #2 (OF 4) $3.50
SEP078109 ULTIMATES 3 #1 (OF 5) WHITE VAR $2.99
OCT072074 ULTIMATES 3 GATEFOLD HEROES VAR #1 (OF 5) $2.99
OCT072075 ULTIMATES 3 GATEFOLD VILLAINS VAR #1 (OF 5) $2.99
OCT070260 VINYL UNDERGROUND #3 (MR) $2.99
SEP072202 WORLD WAR HULK AFTERSMASH WWH $3.99

OCT073851 STREET FIGHTER III MANGA TP VOL 01 RYU FINAL (MAR078472) $12.95
Struggling my way through the fourth month of Street Fighting Sundays, you might think I was about all Street Fightered out! Frankly it's probably more out of the speculative droll of this week's comics that I arrive at what is essentially a fad reccomendation. I haven't had a fresh bite of the SF pie for well over half a year, so I'm having cravings.

- Ultimates and certainly Lobster Johnson look like worthy mentions.
- Fearless and Overman read like an interesting hook that will depend greatly on execution of writing and artwork.
- Suburban Glamour and Atomic Robo are greasy smooth with style oozing out the tailpipe. No problems with art here, but writing?
- Action Comics and House of M: Avengers are second looks of hindsight.
- Countdown Arena is so far up our alley, it might've made Speculated Pick of the Week had it not had the appearance of a cheesy battle book that's been relegated to that status with cheesy art direction. As a fan of Green Arrow I've had ample opportunity to raise the point, but too busy referring to the good things, have never really had the opportunity: Scott McDaniel's art is not to my liking.

For all the clunky charm it might have as a cartoony style, it errs much too far toward the blocky side, lacking clean inks and certainty of form like an Ed McGuinness. Typically I find McDaniel's work looks rough, ill-defined, and poorly finished. There's a fun underlying Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles vibe there, particularly with characters like Brick and the stylized urban sprawl, but ultimately it never sits right with me. So Arena misses out on being the eagerly anticipated title it might have been with a slight tweaking to suit someone like Ray Snyder -- yes, deliberately refrencing the most eagerly anticipated participant; The Bat.

FANTASY FIGHTS: DC/MARVEL ROUND 1!
By popular demand, the Infinite Wars are about to go where they've never been before! After two years of comprehensive canonical fight fact coverage, we're delving into the fictional world of fantasy fights, because you demanded it!

In the spirit of the immensly popular '96 DC/Marvel crossover event, we're pitting fifteen of each company's most relevant characters to 2007 against one and other! Stay tuned as we take a look at the imagine struggles of the superhero stars that have propelled the Infinite Wars across two full years of fisticuffs!

CAPTAIN MARVEL JR versus HERCULES
Strength: Hercules 6 (Invincible)
Intelligence: Captain Marvel Jr 3 (Straight A)
Speed: Draw 3 (Athlete)
Stamina: Draw 5 (Marathon Man)
Agility: Draw 2 (Average)
Fighting Ability: Hercules 6 (Warrior)
Energy Powers: Captain Marvel Jr 3 (Explosives)


The Hook...
If we learnt nothing from the voted upon battles of the original DC vs Marvel crossover; it's that every good fight needs some kind of hook.
Superboy/Spider-man was the clash of the clones; Aquaman/Namor was the attack of the aquatic kings; Flash/Quicksilver the race of the speedsters.

In 1996 we saw the theme of gods and god-powered heroes when Captain Marvel met Thor [Marvel versus DC #2] in the battle of the living lightning rods. I suppose it's by suitable design that 2007 serves up their supposed second-tier successors in Captain Marvel Junior, and the Greek demi-god, Hercules.

If you haven't been reading Trials of Shazam, you won't know that Cap Jr has been battling the gods that make up the SHAZAM acronym in an effort to earn each of their powers. These trials have been decreed by the original Captain Marvel, who has since assumed the role formerly held by the Wizard Shazam.

Hercules has been making headlines as one of the super-powered sympathisers of the Hulk, who returned from space to wage war on the heroes that betrayed him, shot him into deep space, and seemingly destroyed the planet he came to call home. Herc will soon inheret the Hulk title as his own, while the character diverges into a series of alternate versions.

The Math: Draw (Meta Class) Rankings: Hercules (#256)

The Battle...
Forced to fight for the fate of their universe by the intergalactic will of the Infinite Wars readers; Hercules is no doubt more delighted by the prospect of combat than most other unwilling participants.

Captain Marvel flutters from the sky to meet the earthbound hero who puts the H in Shazam. No doubt it would be Hercules who is first to make an offensive play, calling upon the strength that made him famous to toss huge chunks of Earth at the Junior Marvel.

Possessing only a fraction of his Shazam strengths, as per developments in the Trials of Shazam series; the wisdom of Solomon informs Marvel Jr that in the absence of his super-strength, intelligence will be his key to beating Hercules.

The Greek hero no doubt continues to hurl rock and bashful insult as he demands Junior either surrender, or stand and face him like a man to get it over with.
Young Freddy Freeman shows signs of inexperience and intimidation; pressured into entering a physical confrontation despite being unable to properly utilize his wisdom to devise a strategy.

Hercules would no doubt prove to be the controlling factor in the fight, swatting his younger opponent over and over with the pure strength of a demi-god.
Given airborne moments of reprieve, Marvel Jr is finally able to concoct a plan. Claiming his god-given powers will result in a never ending battle that could threaten both of their worlds; Marvel Jr challenges Hercules to a close-quarters exchange of Grecco-Roman wrestling.

Too proud and culturally intrigued by the prospect to refuse, Hercules finds himself the victim of a dirty ruse. All but assured victory, Hercules locks up with his opponent, only to suffer the infamous sting of the lightning ambush.
The pure bolt of magic lightning proves sufficient to put Hercules to rest.

The hammer...
Being that I haven't read Trials of Shazam, I'm a little unclear on the specifics of Captain Marvel Jr's current abilities. I am, however, given the impression by what I do know, that the lightning bolt is still a factor in his reduced form.

I have to admit to some chagrin regarding the "lightning ambush."
Seen several times already on the Infinite Wars [Legends #1; Superman #216; 52 #45], I can't help but feel it has become an all too common part of the Shazam-powered arsenal. A deus ex machina to be commanded against most powerful foes, even outside the likes of Superman.

I like the idea of repeated changes taking a toll on a Marvel, particularly one such as Cap Jr who is young, and in his current state, under powered. It should be a trump card of sorts, used occasionally. Of course, with your universe on the line and an opponent as formidable as Hercules, I think that would constitute just such an occasion, even under my own rules of reduced usage.

Have a different opinion? Why not drop a comment and let us know how you think this, and the battles yet to come, might go down!
Winner: Captain Marvel Jr

1 versus 0

COVER TO COVER: TWENTY FIVE - '83-'87!
Alright, in November you got mucked around a bit with these.
In the short period we've been feasting on ourselves, the Cover to Cover feature has made a tradition of carrying some sort of weight with a theme. Often it has been an opportunity to spin directly out of a recent post, giving new War Mongers an opportunity to take a look back at previously featured battles.

Well, we're not going to be anywhere near that original this month.
No, sir! December is all about reflecting backward in the most broad way possible! Take solace in the fact that, at the very least, our unoriginal take on the year end tradition is carried by features from this, the original comic book fight club (as far as we know).
Now press the button my friend, and send me back through time!

Power Man & Iron Fist #90 (February 1983)
"The Untouchable!" Busiek/Cowan
They call him 'The Untouchable', and as the Heroes for Hire are about to discover, Unus is every bit that!

The Italian mutant menace is hitting up mom and pop stores unopposed, and it'll be a sweet Christmas before the Heroes for Hire turn their back on that kinda jive!
For just a quarter Luke Cage accepts employment from a small child, whose father's candy store has been raided.

Having already been defeated by the man with the impenetrable forcefield, it's round two as the steely skinned Power Man teams up with his buddy, Iron Fist, to find the weak spot in Unus' unbeatable defense!

Marvel Team-Up #145 (September 1984)
"Hometown Boy" Isabella/LaRocque
On assignment in Cleveland; Daily Bugle photographer Peter Parker [aka; the Spectacular Spider-man!] finds himself in the middle of a Maggia meltdown at the 26th Annual convention for electronics engineers!

Marc Scarlotti -- aka the villain called Blacklash -- has been lured back to a life of crime by the Maggia organization, after struggling to turn his skills to a lawful life as an engineer.

Iron Man is on hand to team-up with Spidey as they seek to end convention besmirchment by Blacklash, but with powers blazing, the pair soon learn a far greater struggle is being waged within Blacklash himself.

Uncanny X-Men #194 (June 1985)
"Juggernaut's Back In Town!" Claremont/Romita Jr
The Juggernaut may be back in town, but he's the least of anybody's worries! The immovable magically powered Jugg-head is about to become the unsuspecting target of the mutant hunting android from the future - Nimrod!

The X-Men are forced into an unlikely team-up as they join the beseiged Juggernaut in a battle against unstoppable law-enforcing Sentinel technology from the future!

Designed to counter-act the abilities of the mutants, Nimrod proves a stubborn opponent for the assembly of powers. With teamwork failing, Rogue is forced to step-up, to prove the true strength of the sum of their abilities!

Dark Knight Returns #4 (June 1986)
"The Dark Knight Falls" Frank Miller
In a grim and gritty future, the superheroes are gone; forgotten in a time when humanity has grown suspicious of their mysterious protectors, and blamed them for the evils they combat.

Sick of leaving the city unchecked, Batman comes out of retirement to again plague the criminal underworld with his unique brand of brutal justice. Stirring the emotions of uncomfortable world leaders, Batman provokes the return of another -- the political puppet, Superman!

Having already defeated enemies old and new, Batman has but one final battle to wage. In a poetic conclusion, two heroes stand against one and other, the first, and the last, with only one of them able to walk away...

Suicide Squad #2 (June 1987)
"Trial By Fire" Ostrander/McDonnell
When the crime is too dirty for the colourful costumes of the world's greatest superheroes, the last line of defense is the most unlikely of collectives.

Headed up by Amanda Waller, and comprised of the purchased and the forced; the Suicide Squad march into secret war against the terrorist forces of the Crimson Jihad and their like, pledged to serve and protect - or else!

Divided to conquer in Northern Qurac; Deadshot takes the fight to the man-monster, Manticore! Fighting in the space of an elevator shaft, Deadshot puts on a clinic, revealing the perils of having chinks in ones armor!

QUICK FIX DOUBLE FEATURE: Training Mode!
RYU versus DHALSIM
(UDON)
Where: Street Fighter II #3 When: February 2006
Why: Ken Siu-Chong How: Alvin Lee

Quick Fix...
Well, I, hmmm... It's funny how things can get away from you a bit, isn't it? I thought I had this week's SF entry all planned out, but things kinda went awry when I realised my memory of the Ryu/Akuma credits scene in Alpha was substantially more involving than the actual scene.

Y'know, I'd been thinking about stretching our Street Fighting out to accomodate more excitement in the lead up to the fourth core installment to the [game] series, but I think this delay has given me a good bit of perspective.

September marked the beginning of what will, come the end of the year, be a four month stint of Street Fighter indulgence. Regular War Mongers would be forgiven for forgetting that original mandate; the desire to see if regular weekend features could sponsor a Street Fighter into the top five rankings before the end of the year. As you'll already know from the Punch-Up, no one's reached that achievement, but I think if anyone is going to, we all know who it'll be.

With the "shock" announcement of Street Fighter IV's surprise release, came quick confirmation that iconic characters, Ken and Ryu, would be among those returning for this new beginning. This not only highlights the star duo's staying power, but also the liklihood of their rise to the top of our ranks.
I think we can all safely rest assured that if any Street Fighter can take it to the superheroes, it'll be Ryu.

When UDON relaunched the franchised series, they did more than change the title to the more familiar Street Fighter II. At the core of their creative decision making, the desire to brign the story back from the periphery, to refocus on the spine of Ryu's journey of discovery, and combat.

In combining elements from the various games, they dance around the learning curve for the young fighter. Layered beneath his quest to avenge his dead master is elements that invariably connect to his struggles with the killing urges of the Dark Hadou, and his desire to harness the greater philosophy of combat.

Question, if you will, the handling of the various secondary characters, but impossible is it to deny the success this arc has brought to the Dhalsim character. Despite essentially being characterized as a shamanic pacifist, Dhalsim has been one of the most enduring characters to be included in the games. As noted in a previous entry [Fantastic Four #361], he is among the relative few Street Fighters to have been included in the Marvel vs Capcom series of games.

While it may not necessarily led greater credence to his role as a regular battler, his prevelance in the series is at least complimented by the idea that Dhalsim's yoga teachings can help one master the darkness all of these characters risk facing. There may be a gaming reference for this, but as far as I'm aware Dhalsim's story usually revolved around fighting to raise money for his village; thus making this among the many vague references to other Street Fighter sources, perhaps inspired by a 1995 episode of the V animé, which also connected Sagat to Dhalsim before Ryu would seek training [noted; Street Fighter II V Ep. 9].

Having already trained Sagat in UDON-time [Street Fighter II #2]; the mysterious Yoga master helps Ryu come to terms with his inner darkness, and desire to seek revenge against the murderer of his master -- Akuma!

Dhalsim notes Ryu's impressive strength, speculating that he may even be more powerful than Sagat, when he first sought his training. Even so, Dhalsim floats and weaves around Ryu's attacks with a gawky grace, noting that Ryu's ingrained training may in fact be a greater obstacle on his path.

The master leaps over his student's sliding low kick, decrying rage in one's fist and victory as the ultimate goal, demonstrating it's weaknesses as he thunders down upon Ryu with a twisting yoga spear. Dhalsim keeps Ryu on the defensive, throwing two extended fists, before unleashing the legendary yoga flame!

Ryu blocks the flame attack, but finds his defenses penetrated as Dhalsim makes the claim that, as he is, he will never hope to defeat Akuma. A sensitive issue for Ryu, he explodes with rage, launching into a hurricane kick attack.

Dhalsim ducks Ryu's furious attack, and snatches him up for a humiliating head-pound grapple. Relinquishing the hold, Dhalsim says with a smile, "Are you ready to begin unlearning?" Humbled, Ryu replies sheepishly, "Heh... I think I might be."

Thus, Ryu finds himself on the path to purity of spirit.
With his training just begun, we move onward, to the latter half of the issue.

The Fix: 4 The Issue: 4
Winner: Dhalsim

Despite a mandate to bring the story back to it's core, don't be fooled into thinking Street Fighter II is the Ryu show! Central characters from the games like Chun-Li and Cammy continue to feature, while the likes of Bison, T.Hawk and Gen factor in, also.

---

RYU versus AKUMA
(UDON)
Where: Street Fighter II #3 When: February 2006
Why: Ken Siu-Chong How: Alvin Lee

Quick Fix...
We've touched upon the Dark Hadou at length in previous entries [Ken v Ryu; Akuma v Gouken; Shun v Zangief], and by now you should be well familiar with it in a context not unlike 'the force' as described in Star Wars.

As a metatextual facet to the mastery of Hadou and the Ansatsuken style used by the "shotos", it represents the evils of hatred and revenge in combat. Ryu's training with Dhalsim reaffirms these values, and steers him toward a path devoid of emotion, but conscious of the life of those around him. Dhalsim specifically refers to fighting with the well-being of an opponent in mind, which can largely be boiled down to terms familiar to any sportsman who finds themselves striking the ball, or hitting the shots, frustratingly well in the relaxed condition of recreation.

Making yet another potential reference to Star Wars, Ryu finds himself mastering the powers of focused ki, when a dark voice questions him confrontingly about his deep-seeded loathing for the death of the master Gouken.

Seemingly confronted by the dark master; Ryu fulfills this grim prophecy, responding to the charging of ki energies with a furious cry, "Akuma!!!"

Ryu comes under the looming Akuma with an uppercut to the gut, before blocking an overhanded chop from his master's killer. Akuma provokes Ryu with taunts of his weakness and inability to avenge Gouken, prompting the young fighter to flow through the block into a devestating throw.

With Akuma on his back, Ryu unleashes a barrage of mounted punches that crush at his enemy's nose. Blood sprays as bones begin to crunch and crack beneath Ryu's gloved fist. His ki crackles around him, gathering into a storm of energies as the fighter is seduced by the prospect of vengeance.

The haze of anger clears as Dhalsim lifts the veil of illusion from the Japanese fighter's mind.

Squat in a crater of his own making, Ryu realises that he has failed Dhalsim's telling test. The master poses a question of Ryu's true motivations, asking him to find within himself the truth of whether he fights for justice, or i motivated by his own deep desire for revenge.

This illusion is reminiscent of the familiar Empire Strikes Back battle that seemingly sees Luke Skywalker come face-to-face with Darth Vader. When Luke succeeds in striking Vader down, he is faced with a dark vision of himself, very similar on a metaphorical note to this scene, where Ryu is turned inward by his master's deceit.

Though Dhalsim fears for Ryu's philosophical future, he reveals to him the identity of a fighter who long ago defeated Akuma - the only known fighter to have done so other than his brother, Gouken. Thus, Ryu's wandering travels begin anew, taking him to the Genhattan Restaurant in Hong Kong - home to the assassin -- Gen!

Ryu's adventures will no doubt feature again, but for now this overdue entry finally comes to a close. If you've noted the absence of the now regular Amazon purchasing links, be informed that Street Fighter II has not yet been collected.
You'll probably be able to retroactively find the appropriate links in the future.

The Fix: 4 The Issue: 4
Winner: Non Applicable

Though one might argue the illusion was cast by Dhalsim, we're going to call this one an internal struggle. No results will be derived from this battle, which leaves only four more entries for a Street Fighter to step up to the top five rankings! Will it happen? Stay tuned for more Sunday Street Fights in December!

MONTHLY PUNCH-UP #24
(December 2007)
DC vs MARVEL: PREVIEW 2007
We do a lot of business here at the Infinite Wars.
We deal in all things battle; strange and exotic, bland and obvious. The popular pastime of pretend periodical pestilent percipience, ["fantasy fights" to the alliterately illiterate], was one ultimately overlooked. In it's stead, canvasing the established canon of comics culture, in a way not seen since the unelaborative win/loss stats of the first Marvel Universe collectable card series, took precedence.

Having arguably established ourselves as the leading blogger resource for fight-centric pseudo-sports league battle reviews written by Mike Haseloff; we find ourselves approached with many-a google search seeking fights that have never occurred, and answers to rumors that persist through the uninformed of the internet.

To this day, the tenth anniversary recap of the inter-company crossover mega event, DC versus Marvel/Marvel versus DC, is the most popular entry to be featured in the Infinite Wars. No matter the obscurity of battles like; Iron Man/Venom, X-Men/Lizard, or Bane/Son o' Judomaster; the lure of the unlikely clash of the Marvel and DC powers is just too damned great!

So, where am I going with all this? If you're a regular War Monger, you'll have noticed a decline in regular output. Maybe it's the changing seasons, or the rush of the onset of seasons greetings, but I just haven't been keeping up. In an effort to at least make these shorter posts carry some merit [as opposed to being an excess of self-referencial cop-outs], I thought it might be nice to spend half the month tackling the oft pondered notion of a DC vs Marvel rematch.

Barring unforseen interruptions, every second day will feature a new fantasy crossover battle that follows the formula established by the '96 mini-series.
We'll extend our card to fifteen fights, maintaining the tie breaking odd number, but extending it to feature more of the characters who have been significant throughout the 06/07 season. A connective logic has been applied to each battle, but some of the combinations and featured heroes, may surprise.

To get things warmed up, we again turn to our cumulative Infinite Wars statistics to pit the top five Marvel and DC characters against one and other in mini-combat. Our fantasy battles will not have any statistical baring, and will feature a format more expansive than these teasers.

- Batman versus Spider-man
It's the power of forward-thinking contingencys, versus pre-cognitive spidey senses. Arguably the two biggest names in superhero pop culture, they've already met to some degree, in two seperate crossover series.

Spidey has the super powered advantage to bounce around the urban sprawl and evade Batman's attacks, but the dodge will only take him so far. When Batman cuts himself free of Spidey's web, the Dark Knight detective will be able to familiarize himself with Spider-man's movements, and pounce.
Intimidation and analysis are the Batman's keys to victory.
The Pick: Batman (DC)

- Superman versus Wolverine
It's a battle of the unstoppable force and the immovable object.
Well, okay, that's not entirely true. I mean, sure, you might not be able to push Superman around, but Wolverine's a stop-starter at best.

On fair terms we have to assume adamantium is going to give Superman a bit more than a papercut, but that kind of attack only goes so far. Superman's got all the tools to evade and destroy, with heat-vision being the obvious weapon to factor into reducing the healing Wolverine to super-heated slag. Would Superman go that hard? I'd like to think Wolverine would push him just enough.
The Pick: Superman (DC)

- Black Adam versus Iron Man
In terms of resources, Iron Man: Director of SHIELD probably has more than enough support and tools to take Black Adam down. That said, we'll self-govern by putting each battle on grounds that have some neutrality -- which ultimately works against Iron Man.

IM's got the strength to go toe-to-toe with the strongest powers in the Marvel Universe, but as we saw in 2007, a motivated Black Adam can reach a whole other level. I can't help but think of the scene in the original Illuminati special, where Iron Man finds himself peeled like a tin can by the Sub-Mariner.
The Pick: Black Adam (DC)

- Steel versus Captain America
We saw Captain America go head-to-head with the armored Iron Man for most of the 06/07 season, before his death. Despite the staggering divide between a suit of armor and a human super-soldier, Cap managed to rise to the level necessary to protect truth, freedom, justice, and the people of his country.

Steel might not be about to threaten the rights of Americans, but his armor isn't quite as diverse as Tony Stark's, either. As much as I love Steel, I think a charge and fight from Cap would be enough to beat Steel into submission, at least until they could resolve the situation with intelligence.
The Pick: Captain America (Marvel)

- Green Arrow versus Hulk
This is the battle of the top five DC characters, against the top five Marvel characters. These ranks are determined by the two years worth of stats accumulated on the site -- so there's no premeditation when we arrive at a theme of green like this one.

Green Arrow has a lot of trick arrows, sure. We've seen him take down the man-mountain, Brick, on more than one occasion here in the Infinite Wars. That said, this is the Hulk we're talking about, and, well, yeah. Hulk smash puny human!
The Pick: Hulk (Marvel)

That my friends is but a taste of what's to come! Will DC take the sweep in the final stakes, or are their top five contenders just an abberation? Be sure to tune in throughout December to find out, and check out some of the delicious duels and fantasty fisticuffs!

The Top 5...
#1 Spider-man (-) (16) (Marvel)
Class: [Meta] Last Opponent: [Gomdulla]
Win Percentage: [58.82%] Features: [34]
Season 2006: [#2] Current Ranking: [#1]

With only thirty days left in the year, it's almost inconceivable that Spider-man could lose the top spot. Like Batman in season 2006, the web-slinger has been indomitable, riding the success of the Spider-man 3 feature film, and appearances inspired by it.

In 2007 Spidey extended his many associations with other powers in the Marvel Universe by becoming a charter member of the Secret Avengers. These new ties have compensated well for under whelming events like Back in Black, and the terminally delayed "weekly" One More Day, which may be dead on the table.

The future seems uncertain for Spider-man, but if the influence of the film medium continues to steer the Infinite Wars, The Spectacular Spider-man cartoon is the next blip for 2008. Likewise, rumblings of a third feature sequel will no doubt get a little louder in the new year.

#2 Batman (-) (22) (DC)
Class: [Meta] Last Opponent: [Scarecrow]
Win Percentage: [69.57%] Features: [23]
Season 2006: [#1] Current Ranking: [#2]

It seems almost fitting that Batman would be number two, still mathematically a prospect to take the top spot. It seems to reflect his character, who has overcome unlikely odds similar to what he was given at the beginning of 2007. Little promise in the comics seemed to paint a grim picture for the Dark Knight, yet, here we are, at the annual count.

Though the most realistic successor to Spidey, Batman's position in the top five is by no means secure. Dominant to the end in '06, this year Batman's fighting off the likes of Captain America and the Fantastic Four.

While his nearest opponents have ridden the wave of success provided by film and press grabbing events to their logical conclusions; Batman's true assault is yet to be seen. '08 sees the release of the eagerly anticipated The Dark Knight, and will no doubt more than make up for the lack of excitement in the comics.

After a year of lacklustre efforts from big hitters on the major titles [Paul Dini on Detective, Grant Morrison on Batman], one would expect sponsored retort in the comics, courtesy of film hype. No doubt fill-in issues will be the measure, contrasting 2007's disappointing schedule for the Dark Knight.
A strongly rumored Captain America-styled death may be involved, though the demise of Bruce Wayne seems highly unlikely, even as part of a brilliant concept to revamp the soon-to-be-deceased New Gods.

#3 Captain America (-) (6) (Marvel)
Class: [Meta] Last Opponent: [Invaders]
Win Percentage: [40.74%] Features: [27]
Season 2006: [#8] Current Ranking: [#5]

Some cynical readers will be surprised to see 2007 come to a close without Steve Rogers back among the denizens of the living.
Like the works of a legendary artist, Cap's stock exploded in the wake of his comics death [Captain America #25].

November was a quiet month for Cap as we turned our attentions to the echoes of 2007, which gives us a glimpse at season '08. With another character set to fill the symbolic costume, Steve Rogers may just slip into obscurity. Then again, with an Alex Ross time travelling mini-series on the way, and the Infinite Wars back issue features, who can say for sure?

#4 Mr. Fantastic (+1) (5) (Marvel)
Class: [Champion] Last Opponent: [Gomdulla]
Win Percentage: [60%] Features: [15]
Season 2006: [#14] Current Ranking: [#7]

Though over shadowed somewhat by Spider-man, the FF enjoyed a successful movie sequel this year as well, sharing the title with everyone's favourite chrome domed surfer.

Marvel's first family went relatively under represented in the first year, leaving the Infinite Wars to pick up the slack on the FF front. Mr. Fantastic didn't have any trouble pulling his weight, branching out during the Civil War to join up with Tony Stark, while also expanding his association through Illuminati membership.

Late in the year Black Panther and Storm assumed membership with the team while Richards and Invisible Woman ducked out to deal with marital turmoil. The division, however, proved short-lived, with the Fantastic family sticking relativley close together, before an abrupt join-up under the demands of Infinite Wars Top 10 writer; Mark Millar. A reunion sure to be indicative of big things in 08!

#5 Thing (+2) (new) (Marvel)
Class: [Champion] Last Opponent: [Gomdulla]
Win Percentage: [50%] Features: [16]
Season 2006: [#53] Current Ranking: [#10]

If you scroll down to the Super Stock, you'll note the cluster formed by Marvel's first family, even in the cumulative stakes. The teams association should make Thing's rise to the top five, no big shock.

As a combative website with a vague slant toward Marvel comics, (thanks mostly to back issues), Thing's rise has probably been well overdue. As one of the most endearing characters of the Marvel Universe, the ever lovin' blue-eyed Thing has taken part in some of the most classic comic book fights ever!

With a full month of competition still to go, there's every chance Thing might slip back out of the top five, possibly even over taken by one of his teammates. That said, he's making all the right moves at the right time, and going from an '06 end at fifty-three, he has to be one of the most worthy bullets of '07.

Super Stock...
1. Spider-man (-) (M)
2. Batman (-) (DC)
3. Wolverine (+1) (M)
4. Iron Man (+1) (M)
5. Captain America (-2) (M)
6. Hulk (-) (M)
7. Mr. Fantastic (+1) (M)
9. Daredevil (+5) (M)
10. Thing (-1) (M)
11. Human Torch (-1) (M)
12. Invisible Woman (+1) (M)
14. Venom [Symbiote] (-2) (M)
15. Ryu (+41) (Capcom)
16. Sub-Mariner (+5) (M)
18. Steel (+6) (DC)
22. Iron Fist (+5) (M)
24. Luke Cage (-4) (M)
31. Ken Masters (+29) (Capcom)
42. Morbius (new) (M)
48. Guile (-3) (Capcom)
50. Rainbow Mika (+49) (Capcom)
54. Dr. Strange (-2) (M)
59. Wonder Woman (-4) (DC)
61. Sagat (+115) (Capcom)
65. Nova (+6) (M)
69. Fei Long (-4) (Capcom)
81. Chun-Li (+161) (Capcom)
82. Lethal (new) (DC)
92. Akuma (-4) (Capcom)
100. Mallen [Extremis] (-4) (M)
103. Sakura Kusanago (-3) (Capcom)
118. Dhalsim (-2) (Capcom)
127. Thunderhawk (-2) (Capcom)
137. Moonstone (+2) (M)
138. Blade (+109) (M)
143. Moon Knight (+74) (M)
150. Fin Fang Foom (-4) (M)
167. Birdie (-4) (Capcom)
168. Vega (-53) (Capcom)
170. Venom [Mac Gargan] (-3) (M)
175. Scarecrow (+110) (DC)
183. Tombstone (-10) (M)
184. Radioactive Man (+10) (M)
185. Penance (+10) (M)
200. Photon (-7) (M)
250. Shun (new) (Capcom)
276. Balrog (-4) (Capcom)
300. Black Goliath (-3) (M)
350. Boomerang (-2) (M)
400. Black Hand (-2) (DC)
401. Sodom (-2) (Capcom)
408. The Penguin (new) (DC)
409. Felipe DeClaude (new) (DC)
411. Gomdulla (new) (M)
412. Matador (new) (M)
427. Lizard (-9) (M)
428. Taskmaster (-9) (M)
429. Dan Hibiki (-9) (Capcom)
430. Zangief (-111) (Capcom)
431. Magneto (-10) (M)

The hammer...
Y'know, we took the Quick Fix out of the Punch-Up because it can be seen elsewhere, and it seemed like a good way to save some time. Hah, fat chance! The Infinite Wars just can't help but remain dedicated to the entertainment of a readership hungry for battle!

December is where it all happens, folks!
Technically marking our two year anniversary, we're going to have a whole lot of action going down in the final countdown. Not only can you look forward to fifteen DC vs Marvel fantasy fights, but also: Cover to Cover entrys highlighting battles from the last twenty-five years; the last chance for the Street Fighters to beat out their Marvel rivals for top five slots; and, of course, all the fights that will determine who finishes 2007 as numero uno!

Before we continue, a retraction is in order!
A week ago we featured a review of Daredevil #91, where discussion continued to ponder whether or not Daredevil has been a satisfactory read under Ed Brubaker. Lodged was the concern that villains were being orchestrated too sparsely, but if you've picked up the recent issue of DD, you know that the Enforcers are in battle with Razor Fist and the Wrecker!

Not only is this great news for readers, but obscurely matches up with discussion we had in another entry about the manner in which the Wrecker; who is traditionally relegated to the Avengers/Superheroing side of the Marvel Universe; could be used in the urban sprawl [Captain America #251]. With any luck Christmas will provide the vehicle upon which we can catch up with DD, and lodge more informed opinions about the book's progress, and the movements of Herr Brubaker.

Speaking of progress, don't forget that ComixPress are now promising faster delivery and customer service. The Kirby Martin Inquest was reviewed earlier in the month by ComicRelated, and is on sale now for $2.99 at ComixPress!
There's still time to get in and make a Christmas purchase if you think you might know someone who might enjoy a little-comic-that-can in ther stocking!

Big thanks have to go, not only to ComicRelated, but also the many blogs shooting hits our way! Be sure, as always, to check out sites like; When Fangirls Attack, Always Bet on Bahlactus, Comics Make No Sense, Comic Book Revolution, and the many friends and foes listed under the Allies links!
You too can join the list by pandering shamelessly to the ego of Secret Wars on Infinite Wars. Not to be confused with Ego the Living Planet, who remained secret until the Marvel Zombies recently found, and ate him. Bummer.

Just a quick note; if you enjoyed the short-lived Comik-Politik pseudo political cartoon style awful drawings -- apologies! For the time being those incredibly poorly drawn cartoons will no longer be featured on the site, but you can substitute for the less addictive shipping list updates.

All bets are off as we round out the year! It's vintage, fly by the seat of your whim, Infinite Wars action! Will your favourites be represented, or delegated to fights of future past? The only way to find out is to visit regularly!
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go rest my head in a bucket of ice before moving on to the next exciting Infinite Wars feature. HOT~!!!

- Mike Haseloff; War Monger-in-Chief
Mike Haseloff is a relatively unknown comics writer, who is at present listening to Bronski Beat and Mark Almond's rendition of "I Feel Love" in the comfort of boxer shorts. It seems his Christmas has come early. This is not likely to benefit his career prospects, in the slightest. Nor is admitting any attraction to Celine Dion in tight pants. And now you know too much!...

November Hit Count: [5431/48320] (-507)