Notes on The Thing vs. The Hulk

Introduction

• The Thing and the Hulk: Parallels
  • Both are incredibly big and strong.
  • Question posed: What would happen if they fought?

Key Battles

1. Fantastic Four #25-26

   • Initial rivalry established.
   • The Thing (Ben Grimm) wins due to level-headedness against the Hulk's animalistic nature.
   • Seeds for future rivalry sown.

2. The Incredible Hulk #122

   • Hulk battles the entire Fantastic Four.
   • The Thing holds his own by punching Hulk through buildings.
   • Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) ultimately ends the fight with a special machine, giving the FF a win.

3. Fantastic Four #112

   • Hulk's revenge with a fierce fight.
   • Highlights the difference in strength between Ben and Bruce.
   • The Thing almost wins but is distracted by debris, leading to Hulk's victory.

4. Fantastic Four #166-167

   • Fantastic Four vs. Hulk in a creative power usage showdown.
   • Ends with Hulk being subdued temporarily.
   • Brief alliance between The Thing and Hulk quickly falls apart.
   • The Thing transforms back into Ben Grimm mid-fight, leading to his defeat.

5. Fantastic Four #320

   • The Thing fights the Grey Hulk (Mr. Fixit) hired by Doctor Doom.
   • The Grey Hulk is outmatched in strength despite his intellect.

6. The Incredible Hulk #350

   • Continuation from previous comic, The Thing fights a smarter Hulk.
   • Hulk uses strategy to exhaust and eventually defeat The Thing.

7. Fantastic Four #534-535

   • Bruce Banner fuses Hulk personalities; the fight is delayed for years.
   • When a new, powerful Hulk emerges, The Thing tries to hold him off.
   • The Thing is severely injured.

8. World War Hulk #2

   • The Thing faces World Breaker Hulk, who is both smart and strong.
   • The fight is brief but intense, ending with Hulk overwhelming The Thing.

9. Fantastic Four #12-13

   • The Thing, now human, must fight the Hulk controlled by Puppet Master.
   • Fight is brutal due to Ben's handicaps.
   • Ends with The Thing landing a powerful punch just before transforming back into human form.

Conclusion

• Overall Record:
  • The Thing: 4 Wins
  • The Hulk: 5 Wins
• Engaging dynamics between two iconic characters highlighted throughout their battles.