Retro Comic Recap: The Thing #29

Happy Tuesday, folks,

It's time for me to talk about the twenty-ninth issue of the Thing. The cover showed Ben Grimm being knocked across the wrestling ring by an opponent called the Gator. The tale was titled "The Thing vs. Gator!" The issue had a publication date of November 1985.

The story started with Ben's continued exploits as an Unlimited Class wrestler. One of his recent victories was displayed on a screen during an interview Grimm had with his host, Mr. McKay. During the interview, Ben made it clear that his adventuring days in the Fantastic Four were over. One person watching the program from the comfort of his own home grew angered at Grimm's dream of becoming the best wrestler ever.

He was motivated to call into the program to express his disgust. The man identified himself as Gator Grant. Ben recognized the name as a wrestling legend, and thought during the call how dissatisfied he was with the cruelty of the business.

McKay dismissed the caller as a has-been, disclosing to Grimm that he'd been forced to end his career because of doctor's orders. Grant insisted that he could still participate, and threw a tantrum in his room, one that resulted in a smashed television and broken telephone line. He was ready to make sure that the world knew the name of Gator Grant again.

Ben started his practice session with Vance Astrovik the next morning. They were engrossed in the exercise until a loud noise interrupted them. The crash came from the office of the wrestling promoter Garner. Grant was demanding another chance, one which wasn't about to be granted.

Grimm stood up to Grant and Astrovik used his power to push the old man out of the office. He then ventured deep into the bayou that evening to seek out the aid of the female witch known as Jamala. Grant wanted his second chance so desperately that he would do anything to get it, including drinking the special potion that the woman concocted.

Ben engaged in a tag team match in New Orleans a couple of days later. In the middle of the contest, Grant sprinted down the corridor, asking for his shot in the ring. This time, the wrestler looked far greener than before.

Grimm gave him his chance, even as the former great continued to mutate further. Ben let him appear to have won, as the warrior ran from the arena, now more animal than man. Grimm brought his opponent to a zoo in his motorcycle and returned in time to claim the tag team championship.

This was an odd story featuring another one-and-done villain. It also foreshadowed some of the shady situations that were happening within the UWCF. I'm kind of surprised that Grant was diminished so quickly, knowing what I know about modern American wrestling, which seems to at least honor legends after their prime. 

Well, that's it for today. Tomorrow, I'll discuss the thirtieth issue of the Thing. This Secret Wars II crossover story has Ben facing off against the entity that was responsible for bringing him to Battleworld. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another.