‘Solo Leveling’ includes a clever MCU reference that only the most observant fans will have caught
The Jeju Island incursion brought us a fun and unexpected nod to the Avengers through the Ant King.
The anime ‘Solo Leveling’ has surprised fans with a clever and amusing reference to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). In the latest episode of the series, the appearance of the Ant King has already led to the defeat of several high-ranking hunters. As the Jeju Island incursion progresses and the Ant Queen is eliminated, the Ant King is now preparing to decisively take down the most lethal hunters. What caught everyone off guard was the storyline’s clear nod to the Avengers from the MCU.
The Ant King’s Hulk-Like Recreation
After defeating many Japanese S-rank hunters, the Ant King shifted his focus to eliminating the Ant Queen and her team of top-tier South Korean hunters. To achieve this, he unleashed his full fury, wreaking havoc among enemy ranks—a brutality showcased in the eleventh episode of the anime. Ma Dongwook tried to counter the Ant King’s attacks by doubling his size and wielding his shield.
However, the Ant King didn’t hesitate to rip off Ma Dongwook’s arms and crush him in a way that set off alarms among Marvel fans—particularly those familiar with the MCU. The scene is strikingly reminiscent of Hulk smashing Loki against the floor in Avengers Tower, as seen in the 2012 film. Fans may recall that Loki, in his attempt to challenge Hulk, met a catastrophic fate.
After declaring, “I am a god!” in front of the green giant played by Mark Ruffalo, Tom Hiddleston’s Loki was quickly overpowered by Hulk, who grabbed him by the leg and slammed him repeatedly into the ground like a rag doll. This exact scene was recreated by the Ant King in ‘Solo Leveling.’ The moment in question can be seen in a video starting at the 2:15 mark.
Sung Jinwoo Joins the Jeju Island Incursion
The phenomenon of ‘Solo Leveling’ is only just beginning. The anime has been a resounding success for A-1 Pictures and is now the highest-rated anime on Crunchyroll, surpassing even ‘One Piece.’ Fans now eagerly await the next episode, which will feature Sung Jinwoo diving headfirst into the action—a moment many have been anticipating. Notably, the teaser for episode twelve has already previewed an epic showdown between Jinwoo and the Ant King.
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