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= B. Bonanno Guide Class
= B. DeMars Guide Grade
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Stars and stripes
Deliberately over the top and exactly the type of patriotic persona you might have guess Mister American is the iconic class professional wrestler of the time, meets superhero parody. A nationalist gimmick that the audience introduced to the character by the Mattel M.U.S.C.L.E. toy line in the 1980s probably thought was the extent of the characters origins. Except this exaggerated United States symbolism actually originates from a pair of artistic friends collectively known as Yudetamago who create the enormous manga and anime series known as Kinnikinuman.
Typically featuring his signature star-spangled wrestling mask in bold red, white, and blue with showman charm and strong man physique. This character is brighter and more performative than some of the darker figures in the series debuting in the Lost Devil Chojin story arc though not as a major story role.
His patriotic theming allows him to play both comedic relief and formidable opponent in his small appearances of tournament and arcs and general background forms. Displaying traditional wrestling techniques was some theme-inspired attacks like the Liberty Lariat, or the Star-Spangled Press as a crowd pleasing diving attack.
While his identity was lost in the rebranding opted for by Mattel, we’re still not sure why his character number wasn’t given a more appropriate number on the poster. Perhaps #50 for the fifty stars, seems like a lost opportunity to further play the American genre type into the imported toy line.
One thing remains evident though, this character is all about Liberty and Justice for all. With all the international varying opinions for the flag he represents, he still found his way into the hearts of fans around the world.
Another fantastic example of the inclusive imaginations that still produce the popular franchise from Japan even today.