The release of Captain America: Brave New World reignited debates among MCU fans: Should Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) have taken the Super Soldier Serum to face threats like Red Hulk? While the film’s climax pits a serum-less Sam against a gamma-powered monster, his victory—and the themes behind it—prove why the serum was never the answer. Let’s break down the controversy, the storytelling choices, and what makes Sam’s Captain America truly unique.

The Red Hulk Showdown: A Battle of Wits Over Brawn

In Brave New World, Sam Wilson’s final fight against Thaddeus Ross’ Red Hulk initially seems one-sided. Despite his advanced Wakandan vibranium wings and suit, Sam is physically outmatched. However, instead of relying on brute force, he uses empathy and dialogue to appeal to Ross’ humanity, ultimately calming the raging Hulk. This mirrors a similar moment in What If… Season 3, where Sam talks down a gamma-powered Bruce Banner.

The scene underscores a key theme: Captain America’s strength lies in leadership, not superhuman abilities. While fans questioned how a “normal” human could survive such a fight, the answer lies in Sam’s background as a counselor and his ability to connect with adversaries on a personal level.

Why the Super Soldier Serum Wasn’t the Answer

Anthony Mackie, who plays Sam Wilson, has repeatedly emphasized that his Captain America represents the “everyman.” Taking the serum would undermine his relatability and the message that heroism stems from character, not privilege. Marvel’s lore also supports this: in The Incredible Hulk (2008), Emil Blonsky’s super-soldier enhancements proved useless against the Hulk’s raw power—a fate Sam would likely share.

Director Julius Onah and writers leaned into this narrative, showcasing Sam’s strategic mind and Wakandan tech as equalizers. Unlike John Walker (The Falcon and the Winter Soldier), whose serum use led to instability, Sam’s refusal reinforces his moral compass.

Empathy vs. Enhanced Strength: The Core of Sam’s Heroism

Steve Rogers chose Sam as his successor not for physical prowess but for his integrity. Brave New World highlights this through Sam’s interactions with Isaiah Bradley, a wronged Super Soldier, and President Ross. By addressing systemic issues like discrimination and accountability, Sam redefines Captain America as a symbol of unity.

His refusal to take the serum also challenges the MCU’s history of privilegeing enhanced individuals. As Mackie noted, Sam’s humanity makes him a hero audiences can aspire to emulate—a stark contrast to the godlike Avengers.

Wakanda’s Tech Edge: Sam’s Secret Weapon

Sam’s vibranium suit and wings, gifted by Wakanda, elevate his combat skills without artificial enhancements. The tech allows him to fly at supersonic speeds, absorb massive impacts, and deploy concussive blasts—key to surviving battles against the Serpent Society and Red Hulk. This aligns with Marvel’s trend of blending innovation with character-driven storytelling, as seen in Black Panther and Iron Man.

Parallels to Steve Rogers: Leadership Over Power

Steve Rogers’ legacy wasn’t built on strength alone. From confronting Thanos in Endgame to navigating political divides in Civil War, his leadership defined him. Similarly, Sam’s victory over Red Hulk mirrors Steve’s resolve in The First Avenger, where strategy and heart outweighed physical advantages.

The film’s post-credit scene even teases Sam rebuilding the Avengers, emphasizing his role as a unifier—a trait that made Steve iconic.

Addressing Fan Debates: “But He’s Just a Human!”

Critics argue that Sam’s lack of powers stretches believability, especially against foes like Red Hulk. However, Brave New World intentionally raises stakes by making Sam vulnerable. His near-defeat and reliance on wit amplify tension, creating a grounded underdog narrative.

As Mackie stated, “Without the serum, you have to be smart.”. This ethos not only honors Steve’s legacy but elevates Sam as a new kind of hero for a complex world.

Conclusion: Why Sam Wilson’s Choice Defines a New Era

Captain America: Brave New World proves that superpowers aren’t prerequisites for heroism. By rejecting the serum, Sam Wilson cements his place as a Captain America for the people—flawed, relatable, and resilient. His victory over Red Hulk isn’t just a plot device; it’s a statement about leadership in an era of division.

As the MCU evolves, Sam’s journey reminds us that true strength lies in empathy, innovation, and the courage to stand firm when others yield. For better or worse, he’s redefining what it means to carry the shield.

Release Details: Captain America: Brave New World is now in theaters, directed by Julius Onah and starring Anthony Mackie, Harrison Ford, and Giancarlo Esposito