#96 The Ninja (B)

Smirking stealth

Appearing more than once in the imported M.U.S.C.L.E. toy series of figures this character took on many names from the imaginations of the fans in the new market demographic. However, it’s the creative art & writing duo Yudetamago we have to thank for this additional persona from popular Japanese manga of the Kinnikuman universe.

Cunning, agile, and presenting dramatic battles with martial arts skill in stealth and deception make The Ninja as an entertaining background character that has active roles in story arcs. Modeled after a traditional Japanese ninja meets superhuman wrestler with a mysterious demeanor and an enemy to the protagonist roles.

Beginning as a member of the Devil Chojin faction he sees epic battles with various heroes of the franchise including a brutal match against the legendary Robin Mask, who also features likeness figures in the M.U.S.C.L.E. toy line. Ultimately he matures with a change of heart that aligns him with the Justice “Seigi” Chojin.

Arriving just in time for the Ninja fandom craze to hit the North American markets with so many popular culture entertainments driving the momentum in the 1980s with movies and comics incorporating the concept heavily. To the English speaking markets though, as this particular figure though he could have just been known as Aquaman for his net looking top, or any number of other things as his identity got lost in translation. However in his origins, he packs a punch with signature moves like the Shadow Bind, Sword Strike, and the Kawarimi no Jutsu allowing him to instantly move an evade attacks, confusing opponents in the process. Either way, who didn’t love something about ninjas in the 1980s?