"Hero Envy" The Blog Adventures

Friday, March 1, 2013

THE TOP 5 GREATEST BATTLES OF THOR

THE TOP 5 GREATEST BATTLES OF
THE MIGHTY THOR

John "THE MEGO STRETCH HULK" Cimino

THOR

Created by: Stan Lee, Jack Kirby and Larry Lieber First Appearance: JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #83 (1962)

When fanboys talk about the Super-Heavyweights of comics, there can be no doubt that the Mighty Thor will rank at the top of their lists. It's almost impossible for him not too, because when it comes down to pure overall power, the Thunderer is almost without equal. Thor is the Asgardian God of Thunder, the Prince of Asgard and an unparalleled warrior who wields the mighty, mystic Mjolnir war-hammer which is easily one of the most powerful weapons in the Marvel Universe. This magical weapon grants Thor with such a vast array of powers that he has been worshiped by humans on Earth as their savior for thousands of years. He is also considered the final line of defense on the Avengers (or the "cavalry"), any villain who wants to hurt his teammates or the innocent must contend with his righteous wrath.

What makes Thor so special is not just the fact that he possesses untold levels of power that could shatter whole planets at will, but that he is a truly worthy possessor of that power. He is a proud, noble spirit that will protect those who are in need no matter what the cost. He is a majestic and all-powerful figure that truly understands how precious and fragile life is. While he is the champion and protector of Asgard, Thor also considers himself as the champion and protector of Earth as well. It's this understanding that earns him such great admiration by the population of Earth and his heroic peers.

Although Thor is well known for his nobility and honor, he is also a proud Norse-Warrior-God who enjoys the occasional challenge to his "manhood." He relishes being the hero and the champion of good and usually gives off long speeches of his legend during combat. But truth be told, despite how brash Thor can be, he has been involved in some of the most prolific battles and rivalries that helped define the Marvel Universe into what it is today. And what also makes Thor so influential in the annals of comic history is that Stan Lee and Jack Kirby went totally cosmic with his exploits. The scope of his adventures and slugfests where bigger than any other single superhero during the Silver Age - and because of this, his reputation is second to none.

So, read on with god-like gusto true believers and be prepared for some of the greatest action in the history of the medium! Witness 5 absolutely amazing throw-downs that defined this character into the Greatest Warrior to ever come out of a history book. Because let's make no mistake, when Thor cuts loose, there is usually more "Kirby Krackle" being emitted from the comic book pages than any reader can be prepared for. So let's shout it all together while marching into the halls of Valhalla... "FOR THE GLORY OF ASGARD!!!"

5.) THE MIGHTY THOR #380 (1987)

Writer: Walter Simonson Art: Walter Simonson and Sal Buscema

When you use words like "epic," "grandiose" and "scope," you have to be talking about this classic. Truth be told, not many slugfests have ever come any bigger than this one. It's an entire comic made of splash pages with the captions told in verse and rhythm as if translating from the Edda of Norse myth. A tale of valor and glory that demands a full orchestra and choir of the highest caliber... it's absolutely perfect for a majestic character like the Mighty Thor! In this battle, the Thunder God and Jormungand, the Midgard Serpent battle as never before. They unleash terrifyingly powerful and deadly blows against each other that literally shake the heavens (and comic book reader). When they end up clashing one final time, striking with unfettered might (creating like unto a new star), Jormungand lies dead, and Thor... his armor lies empty. This is the stuff of legends.

4.) THE DEFENDERS #10 (1973)

Writer: Steve Englehart Art: Sal Buscema and Frank Bolle

Without any doubt, one of the biggest and most anticipated match ups in the history of comics is "Hulk vs Thor!" When these two Super-Heavyweights square off, everyone stands back and enjoys the main event. Thor usually has his way with the other big guns in the Marvel Universe (and most of them pretty easily), but it was the Hulk who always gave the Thunder God his toughest challenge. And Thor being the proud Warrior he is, desperately tries to best the Green Goliath to prove once and for all that he is beyond this mortal brute and the most powerful being on Earth. Each of their slugfests are so legendary that they have defined both characters into the imaginations of readers time and time again. Their fights are always such a big deal that fanboys continue to use them as references to prove their claims on which of their favorite is the strongest or most powerful superhero in the Marvel Universe. While there are many epic "Hulk vs Thor" slugfests to choose from, this fight was the one that truly defined Thor and established his overall power (especially in the 70s) more than his other famous fights due to the fact that he was able to match Marvel's strongest character in a test of strength for over 90 minutes. I personally asked writer Steve Englehart about this historic issue and he told me this;

“I just found them both to have a claim on "strongest thing around," and couldn't decide for myself who was stronger, so I went with "not proven."

When the Defenders and the Avengers clash for pieces of the Evil Eye in individual encounters, it is no surprise that the Hulk and Thor (the two true “royal” Super-Heavyweights on each team) pair up for a legendary rumble. The whole city suffers as these two have no trouble letting their big egos and fists do the talking for them. When their team members find out that they are fighting, they all know they have to put a stop to it before both combatants destroy the entire city. Dr. Strange will finally stop the two titans who have been locked in a test of strength and grappling for over 90 minutes. Thor's legend is established here as he matches strength with ol' Jade Jaws, but ultimately, both Hulk and Thor fanboys still didn't get the answer they wanted... ahhh, such is the life of a comic fan.

3.) THE MIGHTY THOR #387, 388 and 389 (1988)

Writer: Tom DeFalco Art: Ron Frenz and Brett Breeding

The scope and grandeur of this battle is what separates Thor from most heroes of the world. It was so magnificently cosmic that it shows you the levels of power that Thor truly possessed and the levels of power that he went up against. The story also captures the true essence of Thor as a proud and fearless warrior-born! It didn't matter the odds or the consequences, he would do whatever was necessary to protect those in need. So when he went up against an omnipotent space race of gods known as the Celestials and he had no chance of winning, Thor would stand his ground and face them until the bitter end!! This saga is what I consider a "pure" superhero story written at it's finest and I can never give it enough praise.

When Thor crashes on Pangoria, he discovers that this world and its inhabitants are about to become exterminated by Arishem, the Celestial judge. Despite the impossibility of this task, Thor prepares for war against the Celestial by donning his Magical Armor and Belt of Strength combined with the full-power of his enchanted hammer, Mjolnir. Thor fights valiantly, but Arishem is beyond anything he has ever encountered before and beneath the Celestial's notice. Remarkably, this doesn't discourage Thor as he continues his all out assault on the space-god. That is, until an even bigger threat appears in Exitar The Exterminator!

Thor now goes forth to battle the massive Exitar and surprisingly manages to breach the Celestial's armor! The Thunder God then fights his way through armies of drones deeper and deeper into the space-god's head. Finally reaching the brain casing, Thor attacks it by wrapping his Belt of Strength around Mjolnir and unleashing a tremendous energy bolt that actually manages to hurt Exitar, even if just a little. Completely out of options, a battered Thor slumps to the floor and notices that Mjolnir is shattered to pieces. This angers the Thunderer as he rises once again and continues to battle on using only the handle of Mjolnir to help him. He fights off overwhelming odds, but the armies and drones are endless. All the Thunder God can do is hurl himself at the Celestial's brain and tear at it with his hands. Exitar then begins to sort through Thor’s memories and study him and his physiology, before spitting him out. Arishem and Exitar enact their judgment, destroying the harmful elements of the world, while sparing the worthy ones. A Replicoid then appears, restores Thor’s health and armor as well as Mjolnir, and tells him never to interfere with the Celestial's plans again before they teleport him back to Earth... WOW!

2.) JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #125 / THE MIGHTY THOR #126 (1966)

Writer: Stan Lee Art: Jack Kirby and Vince Colletta

Another absolutely huge Super-Heavyweight rivalry in the annals of the Marvel-mythos is "Thor vs Hercules!" Both of these immortals are considered the strongest and greatest warriors of their respective pantheons (Olympian and Asgardian) with legendary histories that have made them worshiped and idolized since the early days of man. They have very similar physical statistics and skill-sets making them easily two of the most powerful beings walking the Earth and are always in the conversations of fanboys when talking about strength and ability. They are close allies and true peers that are full of pride and very proud of their heritage, so this also makes them highly competitive with each other. It's easy to see why Stan Lee and Jack Kirby had these two legendary warriors knock heads every now and then.

When they first clashed in Journey Into Mystery Annual #1 (1965) it was inconclusive and readers anticipated their next meeting. Lee and Kirby did not disappoint as their second encounter was a wild brawl that became so legendary that it took this rivalry into the realm of "Hulk vs Thor" or "Hulk vs Thing" for a period of time. Lee and Kirby were on an unmatched creative roll during the 60s and this story and throw-down was just another example of their mastery. Even today, this fight is considered a standard in the comic world and is regarded as one of the greatest ever produced during the Silver Age.

Thor transports himself to Asgard to turn the Norn Stone over to Odin. But he soon realizes that Odin is furious at him for breaking his decree when he revealed his identity to Jane Foster. The angry All-Father refuses to allow Thor to return to Earth unless he passes the "Ritual of Steel" where he must fight not only against his best friend Balder, but an army of Asgardians all ordered to slay him.

On Earth, Hercules has been taking in all that New York has to offer, eating a grand meal in a dinner club and attracting the attention of many beautiful women. Hearing the commotion from her hospital room just as she is being discharged, Jane Foster believes that it's coming from Thor who has kept his promise to return to her the next day. However, when she goes to the streets she finds that it is Hercules, who is taking the glory and praise for stopping a bunch of crooks. Finding Jane to be very striking, Hercules leaves with her.

Back on Asgard, Thor has managed to fight off his fellows, even fighting past Heimdall and escaping across the Bifrost Bridge to Earth. When Balder throws himself at the mercy of Odin for failing to slay Thor, Odin forgives him and decides instead to watch what his son intends to do on Earth. There, Thor finds Jane in a restaurant with Hercules, she is upset with the Thunder God for abandoning her. When he tries to explain himself, Hercules tries to greet his old ally but Thor wants nothing to do with him. The Prince of Power takes this as an insult and strikes the Thunder God. Thor already incensed, rises to attack the Olympian Demigod. The two immortals clash over Jane with their pride preventing them to put an end to the fight and stop the destruction they are causing the city. While in Asgard, Odin is still furious over Thor's disobedience in first revealing his double identity to Jane and returning to Earth against his wishes. The All-Father now calls forth Seidring the Merciless to exact punishment on his son. He orders Seidering to drain Thor of half his strength. This of course turns the tide of the battle, however, Hercules realizes that Thor has been weakened and no longer desires to fight an inferior foe. Angered by this, Thor continues his attack but is eventually knocked out.

With the battle over, Hercules is swarmed by the spectators and departs. When Thor revives, he finds that the crowd has lost interest in him and even begin to mock him. Feeling the rejection, Thor is confronted by Jane who says that she only went to lunch with Hercules to make him jealous and that she loves him. Feeling that he has lost honor in the face of this defeat, Thor leaves Jane and tells her that he will not return to her until he has restored it and his full-strength. Jane is upset, until she is contacted telepathically by Odin, who tells her that he is remorseful toward his son and that she should go to him. Heeding this command, Jane follows after the Thunder God.

1.) JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #112 (1965)

Writer: Stan Lee Art: Jack Kirby and Chic Stone

As you can see so far, the Mighty Thunder God has had a rich history in classic battles that helped define the medium. But when we are talking about Thor's greatest battle of all time, is there any doubt that his very first cover-to-cover punch up with the Incredible Hulk was not going to be it? Let's just say, one of the most heralded and legendary rivalries ever in the history of comics starts right here!

As much as Thor would hate to admit it, the Hulk always brought out the best in him. No other Super-Heavyweight in the Marvel Universe has ever tested the Thunder God the way the Green Goliath did, and truth be told, Thor was always infuriated by it. The battle that takes place within this comic was so full of power that it could well be the greatest ever in the history of Marvel Comics. It showed why Stan Lee and Jack Kirby are easily considered the greatest creative pair in the history of the medium (they aren't dubbed the John Lennon and Paul McCartney of comics for nothing).

Not since the Hulk squared off with the Thing a year earlier in Fantastic Four #25 (1964) had a fight been in such high demand by readers. But everyone knew that the Hulk was going to pummel the Thing in that famous brawl. This one was waaaaay different! Thor and the Hulk were the two physically strongest characters in the Marvel Universe and fans demanded to know which one of them was the stronger. Readers went into such a frenzy for the answer that they flooded the Marvel offices with letters. Lee and Kirby even pay homage to the insanity in the opening splash page with Hulk and Thor fanboys arguing over who the real champion of the Marvel Universe is? This fight stands as one of the true standards in dynamic storytelling that is on a level very few have ever achieved and it still remains a major influence today... now that's power!

Thor retells the tale to a bunch of teenagers of the fight he had with the Hulk back in Avengers #3 (1964), when they were both off panel. The two "royal" powerhouses of Marvel engaged in a tremendous war to see who the stronger was. Thor asked Odin to take away the enchantment of Mjolnir for 5 minutes so he could challenge the Hulk in hand-to-hand combat. But as this happened, the Hulk never took his eyes off the hammer and wanted to destroy it. They went back and forth in an absolutely spectacular battle that shook the entire industry to its very core while both combatants were shouting out their superiority over the other. The Hulk eventually throws Thor against the underground cavern wall causing an avalanche separating them. Soon, the Hulk digs himself out and would find Thor fighting the Sub-Mariner and the rest of this scrap continues back in Avengers #3. Later, we see the Hulk in the desert shouting out to the world that he will one day defeat the Thunder God. How could any comic book reader not shout out "MAKE MINE MARVEL" after they read this issue back in the day? Super-heroic action doesn't get any better!!!!

Agree? Disagree? Let's hear it fanboys!!

Check out other "THE TOP 5 GREATEST BATTLES OF..." here:

Captain Marvel (SHAZAM!)

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/07/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-captain.html

Spider-man

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-spider-man.html

Wolverine

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-wolverine.html

The Sub-Mariner

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-sub.html

Batman

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-batman_21.html

The Thing

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-thing.html

Superman
http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-superman.html

Iron Man
http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2013/05/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-iron-man.html

Juggernaut
http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2013/12/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-juggernaut.html

The Avengers
http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-avengers.html

Hyperion

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2016/08/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-hyperion.html

Wonder Woman

http://hero-envy.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-top-5-greatest-battles-of-wonder.html

John Cimino

John Cimino is a Silver and Bronze Age comic, cartoon and memorabilia expert that runs a business called "Saturday Morning Collectibles." He buys, sells, appraises and gives seminars on everything pop culture, so if you got something special, let him know about it. He contributes articles to ALTER EGO, RETROFAN, BACK ISSUE and THE JACK KIRBY COLLECTOR from TwoMorrows Publishing, runs the Roy Thomas Appreciation Board on Facebook and has appeared on the AMC reality show Comic Book Men. He also represents some of comicdoms biggest stars and brings them to a Comic Con near you. John likes to think he's the real Captain Marvel, people just don't have the heart to tell him he's just an obsessed fanboy that loves to play superheroes with his daughter Bryn. Contact him at johnstretch@live.com or follow him on Instagram at megostretchhulk.

Friday, February 1, 2013

CAPTAIN AMERICA VS WOLVERINE

CAPTAIN AMERICA VS WOLVERINE

THE DEFINITIVE WRITE UP ON THE BATTLE BETWEEN THE SUPER SOLDIER AND THE WEAPON X

John "THE MEGO STRETCH HULK" Cimino

When fanboys talk about the greatest hand-to-hand fighters in comics, there can be no doubt that Captain America and Wolverine will rank at the top of their lists. It's almost impossible for them not too, because when it comes down to pure overall skill-sets, these two are almost without equal and have become the standard to which all others are measured by. Captain America is the perfect human fighting machine, an unparalleled soldier and team leader who protects the innocent with an indestructible shield and an unwavering spirit. He is an idealist who stands side by side with the common man and fights for a better world in the face of tyranny. Wolverine is the greatest weapon Department H ever created, but he is also their biggest failure. It didn't matter how much manipulation and propaganda they used on him during the Weapon X program, this feral mutant could never be controlled or contained. But when they bonded an unbreakable Adamantium-alloy to his skeleton, granting him razor sharp claws, coupled with his mutant healing factor and bad temper, Wolverine is now one of the most dangerous beings on the planet. Both characters (when written at their best) are possibly the most complete high-end skilled fighters in comics.

Due to the Super-Soldier Serum, Captain America was transformed into the perfect human fighting machine. When it comes to pure hand-to-hand talent and finding a way to win, he is without equal.

With an unbreakable Adamantium-laced skeleton, razor sharp claws, a healing factor and a berserker rage, Wolverine is one of the most dangerous beings on the planet to fight straight up.

Beyond pure fighting skills, when you talk about Captain America and Wolverine you also have to talk about honor, tenacity and willpower. Let's face it, these guys may not be the most powerful heroes in the world, but they have more grit and determination inside them than just about anybody. They are both well known throughout the Marvel Universe for their sheer endurance and courage in the face of danger - even against the most powerful of opponents. They just don't know how to quit and they keep coming at their enemies no matter how hurt or overpowered they are. This is their greatest strength and why they have so much respect for each other and among their peers. They are above everything else - survivors. And they continue to inspire everyone on a level few others ever achieve. Their teammates and friends have no problem following them even through the most dire of circumstances and staying by their side until the end. Without a doubt, these guys are true superheroes in every sense of the word.

There is no doubt that Captain America has an unwavering belief system. It doesn't matter the odds or obstacles, he would never falter in the face of tyranny and this makes him an inspiration to all.

Wolverine was one of the first real "bad ass" superheroes to come on the scene. With a willingness to scrap against anyone at anytime (and usually without any reason), he is tremendously respected ... and feared.

There can be no doubt that "Captain America vs Wolverine" is such a fascinating match up. Both characters are very comparable in many aspects of their physical attributes and such elite-level fighters that it invokes immense intrigue among fanboys. Who is truly the better fighter? Who is more respected? Who is more inspiring? Who is more feared? What would happen if they ever faced off against each other? Which is the cooler weapon - Cap's Adamantium-Vibranium-Steel shield or Logan's Adamantium claws? Questions that are not easy to answer, no matter how hard their fans like to argue about it.

It seems that despite being such an interesting and demanded match up, you would think that these two would have clashed more often than their history dictates. But in reality, "Captain America vs Wolverine" is a rare occurrence in the annals of Marvel's history. I think it's because writers find it hard to come up with reasons to have them fight since they have been teammates for so long and are considered friends. Sure, they have different perspectives on life and moral codes, but they respect each other immensely and know that they can trust the other no matter what situation is at hand. Not to mention, they are both Marvel icons and the embodiment of their respected nations; America and Canada. No creator wants to truly disrespect either of them, so it has to be a daunting task.

But despite all that, fanboys are a fickle bunch that demand answers to their constant comic debates. And Marvel likes to play on that every now and then with products that keep the curiosity going strong in the mass media. Plus, with both characters in major motion pictures and more popular today all over the world than ever before, the intrigue and demand is at an all time high. Hell, I can't think of anyone who doesn't want to see the Super-Soldier and the Weapon X duke it out to prove who is the superior - I know I do!

"Captain America vs Wolverine" trading card (1990)

When it comes to having Captain America and Wolverine battling it out against each other or teaming up in fierce competition, nothing does it better than the Marvel vs Capcom fighting game series.

Marvel's Greatest Battles Comic Packs featuring "Captain America vs Wolverine" (2010)

All in all, "Captain America vs Wolverine" is a very interesting fight between two of the most revered heroes in the Marvel Universe. It's one of those battles that you will not see often, but when you do, you know you're in for a real treat. It's the ultimate clash involving the best of the best and that's why we comic fans will always love it!

Enough with the background, let's get to the combatants...

TALE OF THE TAPE

Name: Captain America

Height: 6' 2"

Weight: 240lbs

Real Name: Steven Rogers

Origins: New York, New York

Home Base: U.S.A.

Nicknames: Cap, The Sentinel of Liberty, The Super-Soldier, The Star-Spangled Avenger, Wing-head, The Nomad, The Living Legend, The Captain, Top Cop of America, Weapon I, Brett Hendrick, Buck Jones, Yeoman America, Expatriate, Crossbones, Nathan Hale, Anthony Schwarz, Roger Grant, Steven Grant Rogers, Roger Stevens, The Man Without a Country, The Brooklyn Project, Lord of the Frozen Ice, Commander Rogers, Spider-King, The Avenger, The First Avenger

Powers: Possesses no superhuman powers, although as a result of the Super-Soldier Serum, he was transformed into a "perfect" specimen of human development and conditioning. He is as strong, fast, agile, and durable as it is possible for a human being to be without being considered superhuman (although with maximum intensity he has been known to perform feats that have to be considered superhuman). With his peak-level metabolism his body eliminates the excessive build-up of fatigue-producing poisons in his muscles, granting him phenomenal speed and endurance. It also allows him to heal from injury or disease faster than normal. He is subject to all human vulnerabilities, although his immunity to diseases, toxins, or even alcohol poisoning is extraordinary. His senses and even mental performance have been greatly enhanced, allowing his mind to operate in the most efficient and rapid manner possible. He never forgets anything and has perfect recall which makes him a tactical genius with the ability to quickly process multiple information streams (e.g., threat assessment) and rapidly respond to changing tactical situations making him a unparalleled battlefield strategist and team leader. He is a master in all forms of fighting and acrobatics, developing many of his own unique styles known only to him, making him perhaps the most skilled and versatile hand-to-hand fighter in the Marvel Universe. He possesses an indomitable will and spirit granting him high resistance to psychic control and assaults. He is also an expert fighter, handler and marksman with his shield as well as being a skilled artist.

Paraphernalia: Shield; a concave disk about 2.5 feet in diameter, weighing 12 pounds, made of a unique unbreakable Adamantium-Vibranium-Steel alloy (that had never been duplicated) with hyperkinetic-senses. Uniform; a fire-retardant costume incorporated with Kevlar body armor as well as a chain-mail shirt composed of light-weight "duralumin." Utility Belt; usually containing mission-specific equipment.

Favorite Expressions: "Avengers Assemble!", "I'm loyal to nothing General...except the Dream.", "Doesn't matter what the press says. Doesn't matter what the politicians or the mobs say. Doesn't matter if the whole country decides that something wrong is something right. This nation was founded on one principle above all else: the requirement that we stand up for what we believe, no matter the odds or the consequences. When the mob and the press and the whole world tell you to move, your job is to plant yourself like a tree beside the river of truth, and tell the whole world — No, you move!", "Captain America is not here to lead the country. I'm here to serve it. If I'm a captain, then I'm a soldier. Not of any military branch, but of the American people. Years ago, in simpler times, this suit and this shield were created as a symbol to help make America the land it's supposed to be... to help it realize its destiny. Ricocheting from super-villain duel to super-villain duel doesn't always serve that purpose. There's a difference between fighting against evil and fighting for the common good. I'm not always able to choose my battles... but effective immediately, I'm going to make an effort to choose the battles that matter. Battles against injustice, against cynicism, against intolerance. I will still serve with the Avengers. I will continue to defend this nation from any and all threats it may face. But as of today, I am not a super hero. Now and forevermore, I am a man of the people. Together, you and I will identify and confront America's problems. Together, we will figure out what we are and what we can be. Together, we will define the American Dream and make it an American reality.", "I believe in an idea, an idea that a single individual who has the right heart and the right mind that is consumed with a single purpose, that one man can win a war. Give that one man a group of soldiers with the same conviction, and you can change the world."

Name: Wolverine

Height: 5' 3"

Weight: 300lbs (with Adamantium skeleton), 195lbs (without Adamantium skeleton)

Real Name: James Howlett

Origins: Alberta, Canada

Home Base: Mobile

Nicknames: Logan, Patch, Captain Canada, Weapon X, Death, Mutate #9601, Emilio Garra, Weapon Chi, Experiment X, Agent Ten, Peter Richards, Mai' keth, Black Dragon, Captain Terror, John Logan, Jim Logan, Weapon Ten, Canucklehead, Canada, Wildboy,

Powers: Wolverine is a mutant who has been given an unbreakable Adamantium skeleton from the Weapon X program. His primary mutant power is an accelerated healing process that enables him to regenerate damaged or destroyed tissue, including internal organs within hours to seconds (usually depending on the extent of his wounds). He is virtually immune to all poisons, diseases, infections and most drugs (except in massive doses). In addition, this healing factor provides him with an extended lifespan by slowing the effects of the aging process. Due to his constant cellular regeneration he can push his muscles beyond the natural limits of the human body without injury, granting him some degree of superhuman strength, stamina, speed, agility and reflexes. His body can withstand certain elemental extremes, particularly the cold. He possesses superhumanly acute senses that are comparable to those of certain animals. He also has the ability to sense the emotional state of animals on a basic level such as fear, anger, happiness or pain. He can even communicate with them to make the animal aware of his actions and or his intent. His natural skeleton includes six retractable 12-inch long bone claws, three in each arm, that are housed beneath the skin and muscle of his forearms. He can, at will, release these claws through his skin beneath the knuckles on each hand. He can unsheathe any number of his claws at once, although he must keep his wrists straight at the moment his claws pass from his forearms into his hands. The claws are made of thick bone and are sharp enough to slice through substances as durable as most metals, wood, and stone. He has shown to have tremendous tenacity and willpower making him highly resistant to telepathic probing and assault. Sometimes he will lapse into a "berserker rage" while in combat. In this state, he lashes out with the intensity and aggression of an enraged animal and is even more resistant to psionic attacks. He is highly intelligent, fluent in various languages and an expert in multiple types of weapons, vehicles, computer systems, explosives, and assassination techniques. Due to his extensive training as a soldier, CIA operative, samurai, spy, Avenger and X-Men, he is almost unmatched in hand-to-hand combat, having mastered virtually every fighting style on Earth. He is also well versed in pressure points and the art of espionage.

Paraphernalia: Adamantium-Laced Skeleton; his entire skeleton, including his bone claws, are laced with the rare, artificial, and virtually indestructible alloy known as Adamantium. As a result, his bones are virtually unbreakable. The presence of the Adamantium has further enhanced the already razor sharp edge of his bone claws. Aside from being practically indestructible, the claws are capable of cutting just about any solid material. The Adamantium also dramatically increases the effectiveness of his punches and kicks.

Favorite Expressions: "I'm the best there is at what I do, but what I do isn't very nice.", "Bub.", "Can I get Wolverine before he turns me into shih kabob with those claws? Now bub, seein' that those claws are adamantium, the strongest metal known, and can slice through vanadium steel like a hot knife through butter, buddy, you gotta ask yourself: do I feel lucky?"

THE SLUGFESTS

Captain America and Wolverine have been friends for a very long time. They have teamed up hundreds of times since the 1940's and continue to fight the good fight. While they make an incredible pair who have tremendous respect for each other, they also have very different personalities making them, at times, uneasy allies. So, you could say, that they have had their fair share of disagreements throughout the years. To list all the times they have argued would be monotonous and irrelevant to this write up. And I only listed every time the two heroes actually fought or "almost" fought in official Marvel continuity. No alternate reality or alternate timeline versions of each character are listed and only the "REAL" Captain America, a.k.a. Steve Rogers makes the cut (no facsimiles like Bucky Barnes, Sam Wilson or the like are included).

I will explain each encounter in detail. Unfortunately, all fights and situations are not always so clear cut and I've tried my very best to be fair, objective and unbiased about the outcome of each battle. A "MATCH UP" is considered a round within a fight or face off confrontation. Since situations can be erratic in the story, there can be multiple outcomes between opponents in a fight. I will continually list each "MATCH UP" with a result and tally it. A "MATCH UP" will only result in a "WIN" if the losing character is rendered unconscious, teleported away against their will or immobilized in such a fashion that they are only freed by the other combatant or an ally. There may even be cases when a character gets a victory due to interference of their teammates, partners, etc. This may not be a definitive "WIN" but it will still be tallied against the losing opponent and explained so. When a character gets an "EDGE" result, they had the advantage at the end of the fight but the opponent may still be conscious or fighting on, so it will not be tallied against him. A "DRAW" result means no one was victorious during that encounter. A "NONE" result means there was no way a logical result could be given in that confrontation or situation from the two characters facing off and this can occur for a number of reasons and will be explained in the text. And finally, an "UNKNOWN" result means the ending of the fight was never shown so a definitive result cannot be given. At the end, I tallied up the totals so you can come to your own conclusions and be the judge to see who holds the overall edge in this legendary battle.

CAPTAIN AMERICA ANNUAL #8 (1986)

Boasting one of the most iconic covers ever, "Captain America vs Wolverine" starts off with a bang! Although the fight itself was short-lived, it did spark off an incredible amount of questions that would ignite this rivalry forever. Who was truly the better combatant? Fanboys of both characters had their opinions and fans demanded another encounter.

Captain America arrives at a factory just as Wolverine does; when Cap tries to question him, Wolverine attacks. The fight is brief but intense as it is quickly interrupted by the robot Tess bursting through the wall and assaulting both of them. Eventually both heroes managed to sever the head of TESS-1 because the joints were not laced with Adamantium. At the end, Captain America says to Wolverine that he would never be able to join a team like the Avengers, because of his behaviors. RESULT: DRAW

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 1 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 0 - WOLVERINE: 0

THE X-MEN VS THE AVENGERS #1 (1987)

After averting a meteor disaster, the Avengers discover that the meteor fragments are actually from Magneto’s former base, Asteroid M. Vacationing, with the X-Men, Magneto learns of the fallen meteors and wonder if indeed they are from his former headquarters. He leaves the X-Men without a word, and travels to Kampuchea. There, he is confronted by the Avengers, who arrest him. The X-Men soon arrive after tracking Magneto and are ready to fight the Avengers on Magneto’s behalf, when the Soviet Super Soldiers and Crimson Dynamo arrive. Logan tells the Avengers that if they have a problem with Magneto then they have a problem with all the X-Men. He tells them to let him go, but Captain America puts a hand out towards the X-Men and warns Wolverine to back off, telling him not to do anything stupid. Claws unsheathed, Logan grins and exclaims that the only stupid moves are made by folks who cross him. "Care to try your luck?’" he asks before Storm tells Wolverine that this is not the time. RESULT: NONE

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 2 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 0 - WOLVERINE: 0

THE X-MEN VS THE AVENGERS #4 (1987)

While chasing Magneto the Avengers arrive and Storm tells them to back off. Wolverine adds that Magneto is one of the X-Men, and that the X-Men take care of their own. Thor tells Wolverine to have a care, as he does not tremble at his ill-mannered threats, while Captain America thinks to himself that this is insane, as the X-Men are not criminals, yet he cannot understand why they are siding with a madman like Magneto. Suddenly, Magneto cries ‘Silence! There is no need for you to fight!’ Magneto then declares that he wishes to consult with Captain America and the X-Men immediately, and while the remaining five Avengers are still frozen in their tracks, Cap and the X-Men disappear. RESULT: NONE

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 3 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 0 - WOLVERINE: 0

INFINITY WAR #2 (1992)

All the superhero teams have arrived at Four Freedoms Plaza for the meeting called by Mr. Fantastic. Reed begins the meeting and tells everyone of a doppleganger that attacked him. Wolverine enters and tells them he was attacked by a one as well, he also tells everyone that Iron Man and Mr. Fantastic are phonies. The heroes become divided and begin to battle. While Captain America is also involved in the huge melee, both he and Wolverine never face off against the other. Soon Daredevil also senses that Reed and Iron Man are the true impostors and then the fighting stops. RESULT: NONE

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 4 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 0 - WOLVERINE: 0

CAPTAIN AMERICA #404 (1992)

Captain America and Dr. Druid attempt to fend off werewolves that surround them. Using his mystic abilities, Druid levitates himself, then Cap out of the fray, also rendering the two of them undetectable by sight or scent. In a lab, Nightshade demonstrates to the town's master, Dredmund, that their captive, Wolverine, has an ability to heal that prevents her werewolf serum from transforming him as it did the townspeople. Instead, Dredmund puts Wolverine under his hypnotic control. Outside, Moonhunter searches in vain for the two Avengers. Still-undetectable they proceed amidst the now human townspeople who search for them, and enter the town hall. Out of the shadows, the mesmerized Wolverine lunges at Cap, and their fight carries them out into the street. Cap tries to reason with Wolverine during the scrap but this will leave him vulnerable to a headbutt and become pinned by the crazed mutant. But before Wolverine can land the killing blow, Moonhunter then takes this opportunity to knock Cap out with a tranquilizer dart. RESULT: WIN WOLVERINE (While this is not a definitive "WIN" for Wolverine by any means, he did have Cap at a great disadvantage before Moonhunter interfered to take the Avenger out of the fight.)

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 5 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 0 - WOLVERINE: 1

CAPTAIN AMERICA #405 (1992)

With Captain America transformed into "Capwolf" by Nightshade, he tries to reason with the werewolves that are in pursuit of him, this will eventually lead him into a face to face confrontation with Wolverine. Through the red fog of his feral transformation, Cap tries to communicate with Logan who has gone berserk to no avail and gets slashed for it. Now with Capwolf going berserk due to his cut, he will slash at Logan's face blinding him and then tosses the mutant into the group of werewolves before escaping. RESULT: WIN CAPTAIN AMERICA (This is not a definitive "WIN" by any means for Cap as he was further enhanced by the lycanthropy that made him a werewolf.)

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 6 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 1 - WOLVERINE: 1

WOLVERINE #25 (2005)

Iron Man and Captain America arrive to join The X-men who are on the hunt for a brainwashed Wolverine. As the X-men battle with Logan, many fall before Cyclops is able to hit him with a full-powered optic blast that stuns the mutant. As The X-Men advance, Wolverine manages to teleport away. Now badly hurt, Wolverine needs time to recover and heal. He mumbles that he needs to get himself together. At that moment, Captain America slams his shield down on Logan’s head, driving him down into the mud and totally knocking him unconscious. Cap calls for a S.H.I.E.L.D. team get Wolverine secured and cleaned up. Falcon is present and gives Captain America “props” for taking Wolverine down. RESULT: NONE

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 7 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 1 - WOLVERINE: 1

Variant Cover

WOLVERINE: ORIGINS #4 (2006)

Wolverine looking for Nuke ends up crossing paths with Captain America (who is doing the same) in Vietnam. Both expert hand-to-hand fighters go back and forth showcasing their skills against each other and both guys start to bleed. Logan starts to talk trash to get Cap angry and unfocused. But it doesn't work as Cap throws his shield toward Logan, and as he blocks it gives him the chance to jump and attack him again. Logan realizes his mistake now. Logan falls on the grass, and Cap uses his arms to hold Logan’s claws toward his face and neck, shouting and asking if he saw that coming. Wolverine thinks Cap must believe he’s stupid or something as he easily sheathes his claws back in, having his fists free. Cap then crushes the tendons in his forearms, so his claws won’t work anymore. But Logan also scored a trick of his own when he kicks Cap off of him. As Cap falls in pain on the ground, Logan smirks that the deep cut he gave Cap in his thigh is what doctors call a “massive hematoma” and it could eventually kill him. As Logan gets up and rest against a tree to take a breather, he mentions they’re both pretty screwed. Thing is, he’s going to heal up in a little while, but not Cap. Suddenly, someone takes a swing at Logan. He ducks just in time, but the swing slices the tree Logan rested against in half! Cap tells Logan not to worry about him, as he’ll be just fine. Holding Logan’s Murasma sword in his hands, Captain America is ready for more as he orders Logan to get back on his feet and march to the extraction point, where a helicopter will be waiting. Logan wonders about Nuke. Cap promises that once he handed Logan off, he’ll come back for Nuke. He orders Wolverine to move. RESULT: EDGE CAPTAIN AMERICA

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 8 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 1 - WOLVERINE: 1

As they walk to the helicopter, Cap hears something snapping behind him. Nuke, crawling out of some bushes, tries to grab his leg but Cap quickly jumps into safety. Wolverine tries to attack Nuke, but Cap won’t let him and uses the Muramasa sword to slice Logan’s chest! Logan falls down on the ground holding his wound but starts to lose control. Cap then punches Nuke in the face and declares that he won’t let any of this get further out of control. Wolverine, now in a berserker rage, suddenly attacks Cap from behind, punching at the back of his head while taking his shield and throwing it away. Cap then tries to hit Logan with the sword but since Logan is sitting on his back, Cap can’t see anything and Logan takes the sword from him. Cap orders Logan to stand down, or else he’ll put him down himself! But the pain of the wound in his leg from their previous fight gets worse, causing Cap to collapse. Knowing Cap is badly hurt and with only his fists to protect himself, Wolverine leaps at him with the sword for the kill. Suddenly, out of nowhere, Wolverine’s attack gets interceded by Hellion's telekinesis field and he tells Logan that he won’t be killing Captain America today. RESULT: EDGE WOLVERINE (I couldn't give Wolverine the definitive "WIN" because even though Cap was badly hurt, he was still conscious and prepared to defend himself.)

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 9 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 1 - WOLVERINE: 1

Variant Cover

WOLVERINE: ORIGINS #5 (2006)

While in the telekinesis field, Wolverine throws his Muramasa sword at Hellion and Cap warns the boy to get down! As Hellion scared covers his eyes, Cyclops quickly fires an optic beam at the sword, deflecting it away from the boy just in time. Now free of the field, Wolverine has fully healed from his injuries and pops his Adamantium claws out and tries to slice Cap. But Cap protects himself by using his shield and they engage into another scrap. Cap orders everyone to move to the flanks while he goes up the middle! Logan again jumps at Cap, but Cap punches Logan away again with his shield. Suddenly, the wound in Cap’s leg starts to hurt again, forcing the hero to his knee. Ready to press the advantage, Wolverine is ready to kill Cap, but Cyclops shouts at Logan not to do it and starts shooting blasts non-stop. His first beam gives Cap enough time to roll to safety, while Logan jumps over him in an attempt to reach his Muramasa sword. Logan manages to pick it up and, as Scott fires another beam, Logan swings with the sword, causing the beam to bounce off of it. The beam ricochets against Cap’s shield, which then gets fired right in front of Scott’s feet as he manages to jump to safety. Logan angrily turns his attention towards Hellion, who panics. At that very moment, Emma telepathically shouts at all the combatants to stop fighting! RESULT: DRAW (While Wolverine clearly had Cap injured and on the ropes again, the Sentinel of Liberty had Cyclops and Hellion there to back him up and save him from possible death. I had to list this fight as a "DRAW" because all the combatants were still fighting until Emma Frost showed up and stopped them.)

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 10 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 1 - WOLVERINE: 1

WOLVERINE: ORIGINS #20 (2008)

Logan recalls a past adventure with Cap and Bucky during WWII and tells about Cap giving him one of his all-time greatest beatings. On the mission, Logan had to protect Baron Von Strucker and Baron Zemo in a plan even if it meant he had to get them back to their Nazi cronies. As soon as Logan got close to enough, Cap delivers a vicious upper cut to Logan’s jaw and calls him a traitor. From the side, one of the German soldiers raises his gun to take out Cap but is stopped by Zemo, who tells him that he wants to see this. Cap begins to pummel Logan with punches and kicks. The final blow occurred when Cap backhanded Logan across the face with his shield. With the Canadian half out of it, Cap picks him up with one arm by the throat and says to him that he trusted him. Logan is then shot before he can say anything further. When the U.S. troops finally attack, a firefight ensues. In the chaos, Zemo and Strucker are able to escape. RESULT: WIN CAPTAIN AMERICA

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 11 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 2 - WOLVERINE: 1

AVENGERS: THE CHILDREN'S CRUSADE #3 (2010)

Captain America and other Avengers come to help Wolverine. As Cap gives Wolverine a hand, Wolvie releases his claws to Cap's neck and confronts him on how serious Cap is about saving the Scarlet Witch. Cap pulls Wolverine's hand down by the wrist and tells him saving her should be a first priority. RESULT: NONE

TALLY: MATCH UPS: 12 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 2 - WOLVERINE: 1

AVENGERS VS X-MEN #3 (2012)

Wolverine learns that Hope has escaped Utopia, and that the X-Men have apparently surrendered to the Avengers. Captain America divides the Avengers into various teams to search for Hope at the locations they were given. Wolverine is on his team, but Cap believes he has lost his ability to be impartial on this mission and suggests for Wolverine to take a walk with him. They leave the cockpit of the ship and enter into a different room. Cap says that he is not sure he can trust Wolverine to follow his orders on this mission. Wolverine replies that he is willing to do whatever it takes, because he has seen what the Phoenix does. But Cap tells him that he will not let him kill that girl. Wolverine refuses to listen, so Cap knows Logan is going to have to sit this mission out. Cap takes initiative and punches Wolverine in the face, knocking him backwards. Wolverine attacks and an intense fight ensues with both combatants eventually dripping in blood. Suddenly, Cap's plan comes together as Giant Man comes up behind Wolverine and whacks him on the back, knocking him to the ground. As Wolverine tries to get up, Captain America slams his shield into Logan’s face. ‘Now, Sharon!’ Captain America calls out, and a hatch suddenly falls away from the Quinjet. Wolverine is sucked backwards by this and then Giant Man kicks him out of the jet. Logan plummets to the icy landscape below. RESULT: WIN CAPTAIN AMERICA (This was not a definitive "WIN" as Cap had his Avenger teammates help him remove Wolverine from the Quinjet. But that was Cap's plan from the beginning and as always, it worked perfectly.)

FINAL TALLY: MATCH UPS: 13 CAPTAIN AMERICA: 3 - WOLVERINE: 1

HONORABLE MENTION

Captain America and Wolverine have fought many times in non-cannon stories (and sometimes with deadly results). I've noticed throughout the years that both Cap and Wolverine fans often make arguments showing these comics to make claims to their debates. But truth be told, despite some interesting stories, these issues don't count. I see them as writers' interpretations of “Captain America vs Wolverine” battles without continuity restraints so they always have fun twists of “What could have been?” While I will not list those issues in this write up, I wanted to list my favorite Cap and Wolverine fight that occurred outside of actual Marvel continuity.

ULTIMATE WAR #4 (2003)

Nick Fury comes to the incorrect conclusion that the X-Men have joined forces with Magneto to fight mankind, so he sets his Ultimates on the chase to stop them. In the battle, Wolverine drops down from out of the sky and sinks his claws into the back of Iron Man's armor. The two combatants crash land into the ground. When Wolverine gets up, he finds Captain America standing before him. Cap is surprised to learn that Wolverine has no memory of their time together in World War II. He uses this to his advantage however to draw Wolverine closer to him, enabling Cap to take him down with a machine gun. He knew that Wolverine's healing factor would prevent him from dying, but the wounds are severe enough to take him out of the fight.

ANIMATED

In this section I list every time that Captain America and Wolverine engage in combat with each other. No cartoons or animated features with friendly team ups or situations are included.

ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN (SEASON: 2 EPISODE: 20 "GAME OVER" 2013)

When Arcade takes over S.H.E.I.L.D.'s Life Model Decoy robots and puts Spider-man and Captain America through a video game of death, they confront Wolverine. Cap and Wolverine battle it out until Wolvie realizes Cap isn't a robot. They will soon team up together with Spider-man to stop Arcade and his maniacal plans.

THE END??

In 13 official match ups, Captain America takes the overall edge 3 to 1 over Wolverine. But in the open-ended world of comics, those numbers don't always tell the whole story. And in a fight between these two tenacious hand-to-hand specialists a lot of factors have to be taken into consideration when you compare them in a head-to-head scrap. So, I'll have to break it down and put all the facts out on a Star-Spangled table for you.

Although Wolverine only has 1 controversial victory over Cap in Captain America #404, you still have to give him the advantage over the Sentinel of Liberty in a straight up fight. As you can clearly see in Wolverine Origins #4 and 5, Wolverine simply outlasts Cap by being able to take more and most importantly - heal quickly. Cap on the other hand was becoming more and more weaker as the fight progressed and he started to fade. Wolverine may have only officially scored an "EDGE" and a "DRAW" in some of those match ups due to circumstances, but truth be told, he almost "KILLED" Cap in them. And that's way more impressive than just a regular "WIN" in my book.

Cap's way to victory is clearly seen in Avengers vs X-men #3 (Captain America #405 doesn't really count because Cap was enhanced as Capwolf and in Wolverine Origins #20 it was a young Logan that Cap beat up who wasn't really fighting him back). With prep time, a plan and using his superior tactical efficiency on Wolverine, he can, and most likely will win this fight. Cap is notorious for finding ways to come out on top despite any circumstances, that's something he does better than just about anyone else in comics... including Wolverine himself. While Cap is skilled and strong enough with his shield to get a legitimate knock out "WIN" over Logan in a one-on-one fight (as seen in Wolverine #25), it's just not going to happen often. Wolverine has taken punches from Marvel's heaviest hitters and still came back for more. So, expect Cap to forget about a straight up slugfest altogether and use his skills and shield to nullify Logan's claws and get his victory with a well-executed plan.

So, in the end, fanboys can make their arguments on who has the better overall physical statistics and skill set between them. Truth is that both of these heroes are so close that it's hard to give a definitive answer and both generate almost an equal amount of respect from others because of it. Cap is definitely the more inspirational to those around him. Even Logan himself takes a back seat to the leadership and influence of the Sentinel of Liberty and historically has time and time again. But I would say that Wolverine is much more feared. His Adamantium claws are so incredibly lethal that very few opponents want to go up against him. Although technically, Cap is a slightly better overall hand-to-hand fighter with his greatest edge being his strategic mind (that's his bread and butter). But whatever the Weapon X lacks in straight up fighting skills compared to the Super-Soldier, his Adamantium Skeleton coupled with his insane durability and healing factor will easily make the difference. Logan simply has the ability to outlast Cap and use his ferocity and claws to cause more lasting damage than Cap is able to cause upon him. The odds are just in Wolverine's favor because it all comes down to the fact that he can make some mistakes in this fight while Cap cannot afford too. One major misstep or a few little ones and Cap is toast. That's why I have to give the slight overall edge in this match up to the ol' Cunucklehead, Wolverine - SNIKT!!!