Warning: Contains SPOILERS for Hellverine #5 (2025) The son of Wolverine, Akihiro, has emerged victorious against Mephisto, showcasing that the powers of Hell can indeed be overturned. Despite the overwhelming influence of the King of Hell, Akihiro has managed to carve out his own path, gaining freedom to shape his fate even while harboring a demon within him.
In Hellverine #5 (2025), crafted by the talents of Benjamin Percy and Raffaele Ienco, Akihiro faces dire repercussions following his rebellion against Mephisto’s control.
After being dragged back to the infernal depths of Hell for breaking a contract he never intended to uphold, Mephisto subjects Akihiro to unimaginable horrors. As the torment continues, the X-Man reflects on a vital piece of advice imparted to him by Doctor Strange. This revelation empowers him to turn the tables on the Devil.
Wolverine’s Son Outsmarts the Devil with Magic
Unlike many superheroes, the Hellverine’s existence is directly tied to Mephisto’s dominion. Prior to his resurrection, Akihiro remained as a lost soul, caught in a relentless inferno, enduring a fate far less desirable than death. His previous attempts to escape the clutches of the demon Bagra-ghul in Hellverine #4 (2024) only led to the dissolution of his corpse, relying on a dark force to maintain its form.
As Mephisto revels in his power, taunting Akihiro with the prospect of eternal servitude, the young mutant retaliates with ferocious claw attacks aimed at Bagra-ghul. In a moment of shocking transformation, Akihiro etches a “possession cipher” rune into Bagra-ghul’s body, a clever strategy borrowed from Doctor Strange’s mystical texts. This incantation allows Akihiro to regain control, as Bagra-ghul is forcibly drawn back into him amidst flames, shifting the power dynamic from the Devil to the Hellverine.
Hellverine is the Ideal Hero to Confront Mephisto
The Hell-Lord: Near Invincibility with Limitations
Akihiro stands as an unlikely champion against the formidable Mephisto. Historically, heroes have employed mystical abilities to gain an edge over the Devil, but it is particularly striking that a member of the X-Men, known for their lethal nature, would join this select group of individuals who can challenge him. As an embodiment of chaos and malevolence, Mephisto has wreaked havoc since time immemorial, ruling over Hell’s domain with an iron fist.
With innovative tactics and a deep understanding of infernal lore, Akihiro succeeded where numerous heroes, including the Ghost Riders, have faltered. He has broken free from Mephisto’s coercive grasp, utilizing a strategy that few have dared to attempt. The underestimated son of Wolverine wields potent magic against an adversary used to mortal pleas, proving that truly brave souls can manipulate Hell’s arcane powers.
Although Akihiro has temporarily seized control of Bagra-ghul, Mephisto remains a calculated foe with more tricks up his sleeve, including a gamma-infused challenge that could change the battle’s dynamics.
Hellverine #5 is set to be released on April 2, 2025, by Marvel Comics.