#71 Neptune Man (A)

Magnetic brute force

A powerful and imposing warrior adorned with spikes and a cool mask Neptuneman is likened directly to a real-life wrestler, Hulk Hogan. With even some of his techniques mannerisms baked into the character from the internationally recognized wrestlers time in Japan that helped inspire him. Though most kids in the new English-speaking markets didn’t get introduced correctly until much later after the original branding and story lines weren’t included in the series import by Mattel through the 1980s.

Mastery of magnetism techniques drawing from the Earths energy by the utility of his legendary mask that allows him the unique abilities. A prominent antagonist especially during the Kinnikuman Dream Chojin Tag story arc before evolving into a more honorable character.

Appearing first as a part of the Hell’s Missionaries tag team alongside fellow villain Big the Budo they battle with the protagonist Chojin for supremacy with entertaining wrestling. Beginning as an elite enforcer his character progresses into a more respectful rival and added complexity.

To the new markets unaware of his Japanese origins though the new consumers quickly filled in the blanks with their imaginations allowing the figure itself to take on a character of its own. Though it’s likely most of the nostalgic fan base would have liked to know his signature moves including the Cross Bomber, and the Magnet Power Crusher used to magnetically slam opponents with his special power.