In the vast Marvel universe, the Hulk’s colossal strength has been widely acknowledged by fans. But a particular moment stands out when he shattered the seemingly invincible power of Darwin, an X-Men mutant whose ability to adapt was considered unmatched.
Darwin, also known as Armando Muñoz, possessed a remarkable mutant power: the capability to swiftly adjust his body and mind to any situation, ensuring his survival. From childhood, he demonstrated this power, reshaping himself to excel in various scenarios. Joining the X-Men, his adaptability became even more astonishing. He endured a century trapped in the Vault, a place of cyclic life, death, and rebirth meant to enhance its inmates’ strength. Darwin’s power extended to confronting death deities and attacks from immensely powerful mutants, showcasing his exceptional survival prowess.
In a pivotal clash depicted in World War Hulk: X-Men #3, penned by Chris Gage and illustrated by Andrea Divito, the Hulk launched an assault on the X-Mansion in pursuit of revenge against Professor X. The conflict erupted due to the Illuminati’s decision to banish Hulk off-world, a move Professor X indirectly supported. Darwin found himself in the thick of the battle, attempting to deploy his adaptive gift against the raging Hulk.
However, the confrontation took a startling turn. The Hulk’s swift and overpowering punch overwhelmed Darwin’s adaptive ability, rendering him incapacitated. This instance might seem minor in comparison to the Hulk’s grand feats, such as manipulating tectonic plates or obliterating cosmic beings with his might. Yet, the significance lies in Darwin’s nature – his power revolves around instant survival adaptations, even against threats that dwarf the Hulk in sheer danger. The fact that Darwin couldn’t adjust to the Hulk’s assault underscores the unprecedented strength the Hulk wielded at that moment.
Darwin’s storied resilience includes surviving a century in the Vault, standing against death incarnate, and triumphing over formidable odds. However, he encountered his match in the Hulk, who defied his unbeatable mutant power. This clash exemplifies the Hulk’s extraordinary might, marking a rare occasion when an opponent overcame Darwin’s adaptation, leaving Marvel enthusiasts awestruck by the unparalleled strength displayed.