I was going through my comics last night, and came across my copy of Giant-Size Defenders #3. Notice the caption under the title that says “When the Grandmaster plays — The prize is Earth!”
In this issue, the Defenders are comprised of Dr. Strange, Hulk, Namor, Daredevil, Valkyrie, and Nighthawk. Grandmaster tells them that he’s selected them after he assembled the ‘Squadron Sinister’ to fight against the Avengers and Kang the Conqueror, and Squadron Sinister lost. The alien, Nebulon, put the Avengers and Kang together. Squadron Sinister was comprised of Doctor Spectrum, Hyperion, Nighthawk, and Whizzer.
However, the Grandmaster is not facing off against Nebulon this time, but a construct of Doctor Doom called the Prime Mover. Prime Mover was created to manipulate people in games for Doctor Doom’s amusement. But once the ‘game’ ended, the Prime Mover grew restless and launched itself into space and began sending out signals to find worthy challengers. The Grandmaster responded, and thus the premise for the comic book issue was born.
Since Kang has already been cast in a future MCU film, and Doctor Strange is going to be bouncing around the multiverse, I see Nebulon having a good chance of being introduced. However, if Doctor Doom is introduced; I’m certain that the Defenders will become a major staple in the MCU.
If you’re a comic book collector, like me, I’ve decided to start including this next section in my posts since first appearances and key issues are all the rage right now.
First Appearances:
Kang the Conqueror (as Kang) – Avengers #8 (1964)
Grandmaster – Avengers #69 (1969)
Nebulon – Defenders #13 (1974)***
Doctor Doom – Fantastic Four #5 (1962)
***Defenders #13 – If you’re a collector, this issue is ripe for investment. FMV for 9.8 is $270, with a 9.6 being $130, and 9.4 at $60. Even for a good quality, mid-high grade, you’re not breaking the bank.
So what do you think? Let me know in the comments!