WARNING: The following contains spoilers for Avengers #40, by Jason Aaron, Javier Garrón, David Curiel, and VC's Cory Petit, on sale now.
The Avengers' latest storyline, "Enter The Phoenix," marks the beginning of a tournament to determine the newest host for the cosmic Phoenix Force. This competition includes a host of characters throughout the Marvel Universe. Out of all these participants, one hero, Howard the Duck, stands out among the crowd.
This massive competition begins in Avengers #40. After The Phoenix Force was used to defeat Khonshu, the Moon God, the cosmic entity remains on Earth, determined to find a new host. Several major characters, including Doctor Doom, Namor, and Wolverine, among others, seek to claim the Phoenix's power for different reasons. As a result, a tournament is designed to determine the next host of the Phoenix Force. As many participants of the tournament are unveiled, Howard stands out the most.
Introduced in Adventures Into Fear #19 by Steve Gerber and Val Mayerik, Howard came from Duckworld, a planet parallel to Earth-616. Transported to the Nexus of All Realities in the Florida Everglades, Howard remained on Earth-616 to enjoy many adventures. His first battle involved Thog the Overmaster, who brought Howard to Earth-616 in the first place. Although largely a comedic character, He frequently proved his combat skills during his comic book history. Villains such as Doctor Angst, Dark Hunter, and Doctor Bong were all defeated thanks to Howard's interference. Howard the Duck proved his capabilities as a team player, joining Generation X and brought onto the organization known as ARMOR.
During his time at ARMOR, Howard faced many deadly zombies who he handily dispatched. After defeating hordes of the undead, Howard became the leader of his own zombie-killing team, the Ducky Dozen. Due to his considerable experience and surprising skill, Howard might have a chance against opponents such as Black Panther or Wolverine. Many of Howard's skills are similar to those of Squirrel Girl, in that he is a surprisingly dangerous opponent. For example, Howard trained in the rare martial art of Quack Fu. This particular fighting style allows Howard to take on foes who are considerably stronger than himself. Howard also has enhanced reflexes, and an untapped intelligence which just might give him a tactical edge in a fight.
If possible, Howard could also bring his mystical potential to the tournament due to Doctor Strange tutoring Howard in the mystic arts, unlocking his great magical potential. There are also many weapons at Howard's disposal, including a massive gun known as the BFG (Big Freaking Gun) or his armor, the Iron Duck Suit.
Still, Howard might not be able to access weaponry for the tournament, along with his other skills. If it comes down to sheer hand to hand combat, others might defeat the deadly duck. Overall, Howard's appearance in the tournament may simply be a fun cameo. Still, Howard did contain part of the Nexus of All Realities within himself at one point. This feat demonstrates Howard's ability to possess a powerful force, a necessary quality for the next Phoenix host. Howard The Duck may be an unlikely and humorous foe, but he should not be underestimated in the coming battle for the Phoenix Force.