Incredible Hulk, The (1968 series) #324

In a final attempt to save Bruce Banner and restore control over the Hulk, S.H.I.E.L.D. develops a cutting-edge genetic bath designed to reintegrate their fractured psyches. The goal: allow Bruce to command the Hulk without losing himself.

But sabotage is brewing.

As the procedure begins, Rick Jones discovers that General Thunderbolt Ross is tampering with the tank—disabling safety protocols and altering the chemical balance. Ross’s intent is clear: weaponize the process, or destroy the Hulk entirely.

Before Rick can stop him, the Hulk is forcibly thrown into the bath. Rick and Ross clash in a brutal fight, their long-standing tensions erupting. In the chaos, Rick is hurled into the tank alongside the Hulk.

Then everything goes wrong.

The tank ruptures in a violent explosion of energy and gamma radiation. When the smoke clears, a new Hulk emerges—not green, but gray. After years of absence, the cunning, unpredictable Gray Hulk is reborn.

This new incarnation is different—less brute, more strategist. With Rick’s DNA possibly entangled in the transformation, questions arise: is this Hulk still Bruce? Is Rick part of him now? And what does the Gray Hulk want?