To many comic book collectors, Incredible Hulk #181 is one of the “Holy Grails” of comics. It is one of the key issues from Incredible Hulk because it features the first full appearance of Marvel’s Wolverine. Wolverine made a brief first appearance in Incredible Hulk #180 and many consider that introduction of the mutant as simply an advertisement or teaser for the next issue.

Validated arguments can be made for both sides. If you are a comic collector, you too have probably made the argument somewhere along the way. However, the question being posed here is, was there a legitimate winner in the Hulk vs. Wolverine fight? Some say no, claiming that the fight ended too abruptly, never showing who the clear winner of the duel is, while others declare whole heartedly, Hulk is defiantly the winner!

Let’s take it one step at a time, shall we?

In Incredible Hulk #181, we see our favorite green guy fiercely battling Wendigo. Wolverine interrupts the fight by jumping on the Hulk, only to jump off seconds later in order to kick Wendigo. Hulk decides that the “little man is Hulk’s friend” due to Wolverine stepping in and is now fighting one of Hulks enemies. Wolverine, however, has no idea why Hulk considers them pals. Once the two defeat Wendigo, Wolverine attacks Hulk. Marie, Wendigo’s sister from Incredible Hulk #162, performs a spell of subjugation, forcing both Hulk and Wolverine to pass out. During this time, Hulk also transforms back into Bruce Banner. Marie then attempts to move Banner but instead awakens him, where he then transforms back into the Hulk. Wolverine also awakens and the battle continues until Wolverine hears Marie scream from the cave she retreated into. The scream distracts Wolverine from the battle and when he turns his head toward the direction of the shrills, Hulk knocks him out with a single glancing blow. K.O. – Leaving Hulk as the victor and Wolverine unconscious.

No worries though, it all worked out in the comics. Wolverine appeared as a new team member in Giant-Size X-Men #1 in 1975 and his popularity sky rocketed him to one of the most beloved comic book characters of all time, eventually gaining a solo mini-series in 1982 and ongoing series in 1988, and he is now a favorite character in X-Men movies. He is so beloved that a new movie starring Hugh Jackman titled, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, is set to be in theatres May 2009. Check out Scoop article, "Gambit and Wraith Cast in Wolverine" for more information about this anticipated film.

Geppi’s Entertainment’s Hake’s Auction recently sold an Incredible Hulk #181 in their last auction, with the comic recieving 14 bids. The bidding war finally ended with a victor cashing in at $612.26. The comic is in very fine condition with minor corner tip wear.