As we eagerly anticipate the releases of Avengers: Doomsday and Avengers: Secret Wars, it’s exciting to reminisce about the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s journey that led us here. The series, which began with Iron Man in 2008, has been widely acclaimed for years. However, there are many subplots and characters that have briefly appeared and then vanished. Some of these absences make sense because they play the villain roles in their individual movies or shows. Others, though, have made only a single appearance so far but may reappear in the future, with some certainly returning now.
To clarify for this compilation, we’ll exclude any off-screen antics similar to “Marvel’s What If?” on Disney+, even though they might relate to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. However, please note that this could potentially shift in the future. For now, let’s focus on comic books, as it’s meant to be enjoyable!
However, so far, we’ve encountered a fair share of characters who only appeared in a single movie, setting the stage for the hierarchy within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Some have even tested the boundaries higher, such as the Celestials in “The Eternals” or Howard the Duck in his brief appearances in “Guardians of the Galaxy.” We’ve delved into the very foundations of the Marvel universe, all the way down to a humble, low-level, alcoholic duck. We won’t overlook the less powerful, but we will begin with the weakest and gradually move towards the strongest characters seen thus far. Feel free to share your disagreements in the comments as you scroll through the rankings.
10) Man-Thing
In the recent Disney+ special “Werewolf by Night,” the character Man-Thing, more commonly known as Ted Sallis, made his appearance. Later on, it’s been suggested that he visited Sakaar based on a statue of him found among the Champions in the Grandmaster’s arena. Throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Man-Thing has frequently found himself imprisoned, with at least three separate instances if we include his time in “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.” and the Hydra rebellion.
The Man-Thing, from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, finds itself at the bottom of the list due to its near indestructibility. Its unique physiology grants it the ability to pass through even the smallest openings, withstand most physical assaults, and exhibit superhuman endurance and power. Additionally, it’s renowned for its capacity to sense emotions and possesses trans-reality abilities that enable it to create portals. Intriguingly, this character becomes particularly lethal against evil due to its sensitivity to emotions; when detecting negative thoughts or feelings, it exudes acid, making it a formidable force in the fight against wrongdoing.
9) Namor
In one of the initial appearances within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Namor was unveiled as a formidable adversary in the movie “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” intent on launching a war against Wakanda to safeguard his underwater kingdom, Talokan. During this conflict, various superhuman abilities of his were showcased, securing him a spot on the roster of formidable characters.
Namor possesses the ability to fly, breathe in both air and water, and boasts superhuman strength in every aspect. Moreover, he’s capable of underwater telepathy and speaking multiple languages. Over the centuries, he has honed his physical combat skills remarkably well, making him a formidable force to be reckoned with. Whether as an ally or an adversary at Avengers level, his prowess is undeniable.
8) Xu Wenwu
The magical villain in the movie ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ draws his immense powers from the enigmatic Ten Rings he wields. These rings bestow him superhuman abilities, and even more extraordinary capacities while he is wearing them. Thus, Xu Wenwu has been a legendary figure since at least the Middle Ages, dominating much of Asia under the symbol of the Ten Rings. It appears that the power within these rings originates from some of the same forces present in the multiverse, making them as potent as the Infinity Stones. Furthermore, we witness that when possessed by Shang-Chi, they can vanquish the Dweller-in-Darkness with a single blow.
Xu Wenwu accumulates an extraordinary level of power through his exceptional physical skills, vast knowledge, and extensive life experience – accomplishments rarely seen in a single lifetime. As he transcends humanity, he rightfully secures a place on the list. United with the Ten Rings, Xu Wenwu arguably holds the title for the strongest human character within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
7) Cassandra Nova
In a different scenario: Xu Wenwu is said to be the strongest human alive. However, when it comes to competing for strength against mutants, Cassandra Nova stands tall. Known as the chief antagonist in the series ‘Deadpool & Wolverine‘, she’s an Omega-level mutant much like her twin brother, Charles Xavier. Unlike him, she has no moral obligations to act benevolently and wields all his powers without restraint. She can heal herself using telekinesis and enter someone’s mind once she physically touches them. Moreover, she is backed by Paradox, which grants her influence over the Time Variance Authority and additional power within the Void.
Alongside her formidable mutant abilities, she’s gained both allies (her gang) and certain artifacts from defeated variants within The Void. Among these acquisitions is Doctor Strange’s sling ring, which found its way into The Void. This unique item enables her to traverse various realities, eventually seizing control of the Time Ripper once it makes its appearance during the climax.
6) Hela
In Norse mythology, Hela – the third-born and eldest sibling of Odin, who is known as the queen of the underworld in Asgardian tales – made a powerful entrance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). She effortlessly overpowered Thor upon his return to Asgard, and even shattered Mjolnir in her grasp. Before this dramatic scene, she had summoned legions of deceased warriors, slaughtered the Warriors Three, and unleashed the immense beast Fenris upon Asgard.
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Hela was the initial wielder of Mjolnir but lost it after being exiled. Even mighty Odin could only banish her by tying her to his vital energy. However, upon Odin’s death in Thor: Ragnarok, her imprisonment was lifted, allowing her to return and contest for the throne. With Odin deceased, there seemed to be only one power she couldn’t conquer.
5) Surtur
In the beginning of Ragnarok, the legendary ruler of Muspelheim made an appearance, capturing Thor and revealing the potential powers if the Crown of Dark Flames was joined with the Everlasting Blaze. This fiery element was kept sealed within Odin’s stronghold until Thor and Loki chose to release the fire spirit, fulfilling its part in the Ragnarok legend.
With the Twilight Blade, Surtur is capable of ravaging Asgard and annihilating the kingdom, claiming Hela’s life in the process. During this ordeal, The Hulk nearly disrupts Thor’s scheme by attacking the immense demonic inferno. In our final glimpse, the sword appears to be impaled within the city’s core as it bursts into flames.
4) The Grandmaster
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the ruler of Sakaar is currently believed to be among the most powerful of the cosmic beings known as the Elders of the Universe. At present, he presides over the Contest of Champions, but following the events of Thor: Ragnarok, he is ultimately dethroned by his own subjects. Interestingly, this ruler shares a familial bond with another Elder of the Universe – the Collector, who hails from the comics as well.
Given his comic book character’s extraordinary abilities, it is reasonable to infer that he might possess powers akin to those of his comic counterpart. This would justify his inclusion on the list. While he doesn’t possess the magnitude of power as Galactus, he does share traits like an immunity to aging and diseases. He seems capable of willing the demise of another being and also displaying the power to resurrect others, regardless of the gravity of their injuries. It is not certain whether these powers will translate to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), but we are categorizing him as part of the cosmic divine entities.
3) Galactus
One of the recent introductions in storytelling is from “The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” where we meet Galactus. Much like his comic book counterpart, he draws power from the Cosmic Power and cosmic scales that aid in controlling his insatiable hunger. Galactus survives by consuming planets, thus serving as a regulating force for the universe.
Galactus possesses the ability to transfer his powers to multiple Heralds, thrives in space without requiring oxygen, and utilizes various tools at his disposal. Furthermore, he exhibits extraordinary strength that has come close to propelling a character beyond Earth’s atmosphere and into outer space.
2) Mistress Death
In the show “Agatha All Along,” Aubrey Plaza brings to life a unique portrayal of Death. Unlike the omnipotent figure from Marvel Comics, this version also has differences, but let’s not forget-this is still the enigmatic entity that wields authority over birth and demise in the cosmos. With the ability to take life, restore it, and access infinite wisdom of the universe, Death may not actively participate in grand cosmic events or travel between universes, but her control over life and death makes her one of the most formidable entities out there.
In addition, it’s worth mentioning that the Death character, who appears as Rio Vadal in the series Agatha All Along, represents a diminished form of her original power. She transforms into a human figure to handle lesser entities, which explains her intent to eliminate Billy Maximoff and reverse his resurrection. This action would enable her to grow significantly more potent.
1) Arishem the Judge
In conclusion, among the transient characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Arishem the Judge stands out as the most powerful. As a prime Celestial, he’s responsible for creating the Sun, the Deviants, the Eternals, and he plants Celestial seeds on each planet they inhabit. In terms of deity-like entities in the MCU, he comes closest to being an actual god, except for Eternity, who was embodied in “Love and Thunder.” He is also the character most similar to the One Above All in the MCU.
During the Infinity Saga, Thanos wielding the complete Infinity Gauntlet is arguably the most powerful character we’ve encountered; however, he’s not a one-time appearance. Unlike the Celestials who are inherently powerful and born with their strength, Thanos appears to be increasing his power over time. This sets him apart as an anomaly rather than a typical force of nature.
https://comicbook.com/movies/news/avengers-doomsday-vs-x-men-adaptation-theory-mcu-fox/embed/#
Read More
- ENA PREDICTION. ENA cryptocurrency
- Minecraft lets you get the Lava Chicken song in-game — but it’s absurdly rare
- Gold Rate Forecast
- Lewis Capaldi Details “Mental Episode” That Led to Him “Convulsing”
- Wrestler Marcus “Buff” Bagwell Undergoes Leg Amputation
- PS5’s ChinaJoy Booth Needs to Be Seen to Be Believed
- Yungblud Vows to Perform Ozzy Osbourne Song “Every Night”
- Elden Ring Nightreign’s Patch 1.02 update next week is adding a feature we’ve all been waiting for since launch — and another I’ve been begging for, too
- Cyberpunk 2077’s Patch 2.3 is Here and It’s Another Excellent Overhaul
- Microsoft is on track to become the second $4 trillion company by market cap, following NVIDIA — and mass layoffs
2025-08-16 03:51