Marvel Studios may be preparing to bring back the original, rage-filled version of the Hulk. New concept images from the upcoming film Spider-Man: Brand New Day, expected to release in 2026, suggest that the fan-favorite character could return to his powerful and uncontrollable roots.
The images were shared by cinematographer Brett Pawlak on Pinterest, showing intense moments between Spider-Man and a massive, furious-looking Hulk. This version appears very different from the calm and intelligent “Smart Hulk” that has appeared in recent Marvel stories.
Smart Hulk, last seen in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law (2022), combined Bruce Banner’s scientific mind with Hulk’s strength. While this version brought humor and control, many fans have missed the wild, angry Hulk who was known for his unstoppable rage.
One of the new concept images shows Spider-Man standing on Hulk’s shoulder, highlighting just how enormous the character appears. Another image shows the two superheroes in battle, suggesting that their meeting may begin with conflict rather than cooperation.
Marvel has not confirmed the storyline of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, but these visuals hint at a major change in Hulk’s direction. If true, it would be the first time since 2012’s The Avengers that audiences see Hulk in full rage mode in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Bruce Banner’s journey in the MCU has been complex. After admitting in The Avengers that he is “always angry,” he worked to control the Hulk side of himself. This led to the Smart Hulk seen in Avengers: Endgame (2019) and later in She-Hulk, where he appeared to have found peace and even had a son, Skaar.
How this version of Hulk might become angry again is unclear. One theory is that Mister Negative, a rumored villain in Brand New Day, could use a dark energy known as the Darkforce to unleash the Savage Hulk.
The idea of Hulk and Spider-Man clashing on screen is exciting for longtime fans. In the comics, the two heroes have often fought before teaming up against larger threats. Their possible conflict—and future alliance—could set the stage for major events in the next Avengers films planned for 2026 and 2027.
For now, Marvel has not confirmed if the angry Hulk is really returning. But the artwork hints that the green giant’s rage could once again play a central role in the MCU.
