For a time, The Red Hulk stood alongside Bruce Banner as one of Marvel's premier gamma monsters. The Red Hulk was a big part in the greater Marvel Universe, interacting with many of its major heroes and villains.
Looking back on his former glory, it's important to remember the mysterious fate of The Red Hulk.
After his debut in Hulk #1, by Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness, The Red Hulk remained elusive in terms of his true identity. Following years of mystery and suspense, this crimson goliath turned out to be General Thunderbolt Ross. Hounding the original Hulk for years, Ross made it his mission to destroy Bruce Banner once and for all. Doubling down on this vendetta, Ross became The Red Hulk to destroy The Green Goliath once and for all.Ross became The Red Hulk with the assistance of Doc Samson, along with A.I.M. and members of The Intelligencia, such as The Leader. As The Red Hulk, Ross had all of Banner's strength, with the added ability to absorb radiation. Of course, Ross also had a weakness of overheating when he became too angry.
Not only was Ross seeking vengeance on Banner, but he was also promised that The Intelligencia would revive his daughter, Betty. Indeed, Betty was also revealed as The Red She-Hulk, thanks once again to the work of The Leader.
As The Red Hulk, Ross initially continued his grudge with The Hulk, fighting Banner on multiple occasions. This vendetta also got Ross in trouble with Iron Man, Thor, The Defenders and many other heroes across the Marvel Universe. After his defeat and capture, Ross agreed to work as a government agent for Steve Rogers. Working for the side of good, The Red Hulk ultimately proved his worth and became an Avenger.
Unfortunately, Ross's moment in the sun was cut short. When Banner injected The Extremis Virus into his brain, he became a new, intelligent version of The Hulk, called Doc Green. This incarnation of The Jade Giant sought to depower all gamma-powered individuals. Since The Red Hulk was the last person on Doc Green's list, Ross was prepared.
During their initial encounter, The Red Hulk put up a significant struggle, escaping from Banner's grasp without being "cured." The second time, however, Doc Green was ready for Ross. Banner hired Deadpool to shoot Ross with a bullet that inhibited his energy absorption powers. After eventually defeating Ross, Banner depowered him and had him arrested for deserting the army.
Later on, Ross was able to redeem himself before the government. During "Secret Empire," when HYDRA took over the world, Ross led a resistance cell against this fascist movement. For his actions, Ross was put on parole and began working for the government once again.
Secretly, however, Ross also became part of a Cabal called The Power Elite. This group held great influence over The United States. Growing suspicious of fellow member Alexa Lukin, Ross faked his death to investigate the villain. Indeed, an LMD was killed in Ross' place, although Captain America was framed for his murder.
Only a select few knew of Ross' survival, including Black Widow. When The Daughters of Liberty were summoned by Sharon Carter to clear Cap's name, Ross aided these heroes from the shadows. Eventually, Ross revealed himself as alive to The Daughters of Liberty.
The Red Hulk may have disappeared, but General Thunderbolt Ross continues to fight for his country.
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