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= B. Bonanno Guide Class
= B. DeMars Guide Grade
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The small package
A favorite to many fans introduced to the character via the Mattel import toy line we knew as M.U.S.C.L.E. in the mid 1980s this fierce little fella had a much greater identity than Mattel allowed to follow him. Originating from the expansive Kinnikuman universe, a still popularly produced franchise of manga and anime from Japan, he’s a life-long companion friend to the main character to which the franchise is named.
One of the most important supporting characters he acts as a trusted advisor, trainer, strategist, and overall loyal friend to the otherwise compulsive primary character named Kinnikuman. Small and child-like in stature hailing from the Churrasco Tribe of Planet Kinniku he’s easily recognized and memorable for his unique character design amongst the numerous larger-than-life superhuman wrestlers of the storylines.
Bearing the Kinniku Clan’s KIN mark on his chest and the Japanese Kanji characters of “Niku” (aka “Meat”) on his forehead he plays large supporting roles throughout the story arcs a comedic sidekick who helps guide the notoriously cowardly and food-obsessed Kinnikuman. Who in the official original story lines is introduced as the boy who arrives from Planet Kinniku and reveals Kinnikuman as the missing prince of the Royal family.
He relies on intelligence and improvisation in the few battles he actually contends in directly, such as his battle in the Kinniku Throne Succession Arc facing Mixer Taitei. Vastly overpowered against the larger Chojin combatants he exploits weaknesses demonstrating the ability for the meek to defeat the otherwise stronger contender.
With trademark signature techniques like the Meat Kids Torpedo, Backdrop, House Arrest Crush, and the Tenryu Chop. His greatest and most formidable skills lay in his strategic intelligence.
Either way, this little guy quickly won his way into the hearts of fans around the world. Where even still today he’s a mainstay character of the franchise we all love.
Collector note: We’re missing the GREEN version of this figure if you happen to have one to spare, if so then please get in touch! 🙂