In Maestro: World War M #2, the future Hulk reveals a useful new power, implying that Bruce Banner’s gamma-irradiated body never stops evolving.
WARNING: The following contains spoilers for Maestro: World War M #2, available now from Marvel Comics.
There is much evidence to support the idea that the Maestro is the most powerful version of the Hulk. As an uninhibited and cunning future version of Marvel’s strongest powerhouse, the Maestro’s combination of brains and brawn have established him as one of the universe’s deadliest threats, and he appears to be gaining even more power.
The Hulk’s unique physiology grants him a variety of abilities beyond superhuman strength, and the Maestro has just demonstrated that his gamma-irradiated body may still be evolving. Maestro: World War M #2 (by Peter David, German Peralta, Jesus Aburtov, and VC’s Ariana Maher) reveals a new ability the future Hulk possesses that has massive implications regarding his power level and future capabilities.
The issue begins with the Maestro pursuing the original human torch, the android Jim Hammond, to the undersea kingdom of Namor. In the depths of the Pacific Ocean, the future Hulk faces off against Namor, who points out a surprising revelation: unlike any Hulk before him, the future incarnation has gained the ability to breathe underwater.
The Maestro proves so comfortable underwater that he speaks openly and has no difficulty engaging in the combat that ensues. He smashes the court of assembled Atlanteans, tears apart the giant beasts that Namor sends at him, and even manages to overpower the Abomination. This scene readily communicates that Maestro’s body has adapted in ways unlike it ever has before, and the revelation could have massive implications going forward.
The Hulk’s unique physiology has previously produced effects beyond his sheer strength. In the past the Jade Giant has been able to see astral projections invisible to others, regenerate from deadly wounds in mere moments, and use his rage to boost his physical abilities even higher. But breathing underwater is a new trick, indicating that over time the Hulk’s body continues to evolve and adapt to new challenges.
Even the Maestro’s prolonged existence in the post-apocalyptic wasteland of “Future Imperfect” comes as a result of his body absorbing and thriving off the ambient radiation that decimated humanity. While maintaining the keen intellect of Bruce Banner, the Maestro has proven in the past to possess all of the Hulk’s strength, and the manifestation of new abilities signify that his powers may still be increasing.
The fight ends abruptly as Doctor Doom whisks Namor, the Human Torch, and the Abomination away to safety. Giving the Maestro more time to grow his power and incubate his schemes may not be such a wise idea, however. He has managed to overpower and outsmart Machine Man, Hercules and MODOK in the past, and even the combined effort of his remaining enemies may not be enough to stop him.
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