10 Strongest Versions of Fantastic Four’s The Thing, Ranked
Ben Grimm, known as The Thing, is one of Marvel’s most beloved heroes, a rock-solid powerhouse with a heart of gold. His transformation from a regular guy into a super-strong, stone-skinned hero after a cosmic radiation mishap made him a core member of the Fantastic Four. Over decades, different versions of The Thing have appeared across comics, movies, and alternate universes, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
From pirate captains to cosmic energy beings, The Thing’s variations show just how versatile this character can be. I’ve ranked the ten strongest versions of Ben Grimm, focusing on their power, abilities, and impact. Let’s dive into the toughest iterations of this iconic hero, starting with the least powerful of the top ten.
Blackbeard
In one wild adventure, Ben Grimm becomes Blackbeard, a pirate captain roaming the 18th-century Caribbean seas. Trapped in a time-travel mishap, he embraces the pirate life, fighting against slavery with his classic Thing strength.
His rocky form and superhuman durability make him a terror on the high seas, but his powers remain standard for The Thing, lacking any extra boosts. This version ranks lower due to its reliance on familiar abilities without new enhancements.
Count Crag
Count Crag hails from Eurth, a medieval-inspired world where he’s part of the Four Fates, a twist on the Fantastic Four. His stone-like skin and strength mirror the classic Thing, making him a formidable knight-like figure.
While Count Crag’s powers are nearly identical to the mainline Thing, his medieval setting limits his access to modern tech or cosmic upgrades. His straightforward strength lands him at this spot.
Mister Grim
Mister Grim, from Earth-11113, is another alternate take on Ben Grimm, sporting the same rocky exterior and brute force as the original Thing. He operates in a unique universe with its own challenges.
His abilities don’t push beyond the standard Thing’s limits, keeping him grounded in raw physical power. Without additional powers or transformations, Mister Grim fits snugly here in the ranking.
Senator Ben Grimm
In one reality, Ben Grimm serves as a senator and a founder of the Challengers of the Fantastic, a team blending elements of the Fantastic Four and DC’s Challengers of the Unknown. His political role adds a new layer to his character.
During a battle with Galactiac, he briefly becomes a Four-Armed Thing, boosting his strength temporarily. This short-lived transformation keeps him from climbing higher on the list.
Rex Majestos
In the Astro City universe, Ben Grimm is reimagined as Rex Majestos, heir to Monstro City’s throne. His dinosaur-like appearance sets him apart, but his strength and durability align closely with the classic Thing.
Rex’s regal status and unique design add flair, but his powers don’t exceed the standard Thing’s capabilities. His lack of additional abilities places him in the middle of the pack.
House of M Thing
In the ‘House of M’ storyline, Ben Grimm survives a catastrophic accident that leaves him intellectually diminished but physically as strong as ever. He joins the Fearsome Four under Dr. Doom’s command.
His raw power is immense, but his reduced intellect hampers his effectiveness. This limitation keeps him from ranking higher despite his brute strength.
Ultimate Thing
In the Ultimate Universe, Ben Grimm evolves beyond his rocky form, shedding his stone skin to reveal a glowing purple humanoid form with new powers. This version can switch between human and Thing states.
The ability to shift forms and wield enhanced energy-based abilities gives Ultimate Thing an edge. His adaptability makes him one of the stronger variants.
Dragonfly
In a ‘What If?’ comic, Ben Grimm becomes the Dragonfly, gaining wings instead of his usual rocky form. This version can fly while retaining superhuman strength, offering a fresh take on his abilities.
The addition of flight and agility boosts his versatility, making him more powerful than many grounded versions. Dragonfly’s unique skill set earns him a high spot.
Thor Corps Thing
As a member of the Thor Corps in the ‘Secret Wars’ storyline, The Thing wields a version of Mjolnir, the hammer of Thor. This Asgardian upgrade amplifies his already massive strength with magical might.
The combination of his natural durability and Asgardian power makes this version a force of nature. Thor Corps Thing stands out as one of the most formidable variants.
Energy Form Thing
In a rare transformation, The Thing’s rocky skin is revealed as a cocoon, and he emerges as a glowing energy being with enhanced strength and new powers. This version can even take down a zombified Hulk with one punch.
His evolved form and ability to surpass his usual limits make Energy Form Thing the strongest iteration. This cosmic-level power secures his place at the top.
Which version of The Thing is your favorite, or did I miss a powerful variant? Drop your thoughts in the comments!