Understanding the Different Variants of Wolverine in Deadpool & Wolverine

Do you consider yourself an expert on Wolverine comics? Think again. In this year’s Marvel epic, Deadpool & Wolverine, you’ll find every variant of Wolverine featured.

We appreciate Hugh Jackman just as much as anyone else, but it seems that Marvel movies have a special affection for him. Throughout Deadpool & Wolverine, there exist 10 different versions of his iconic X-Men character.

Eagle-eyed viewers will observe that the first half-hour of the new movie features all of these cameos, covering five decades of Marvel history in total.

Not surprisingly, they make an appearance, but who exactly shows up in the ultimate mutant roster? Below is a complete breakdown of every version of Wolverine in Deadpool & Wolverine. Be warned: Spoilers ahead!

Logan, Utah

Hugh Jackman in Logan — 20th Century Studios

It is hardly a surprise that our initial variant touchpoint is our very own version of Wolverine. As you may recall from the 2017 movie with the same title, our original Jackman bravely sacrificed himself to safeguard X-23 (Dafne Keen).

Unfortunately, our beloved Wolverine does not miraculously come back to life in Deadpool & Wolverine. Despite a few glimpses of him in flashbacks from previous X-Men movies, he remains deceased. In fact, when Deadpool eventually locates him, all that remains is his skeletal form.

Although Deadpool had always dreamt of a collaboration with Logan, he ultimately achieves his desire in a rather twisted manner. When TVA agents appear at Logan’s gravesite to capture Deadpool, the masked hero cleverly utilizes parts of Logan’s skeleton to defeat them in an impressively cool battle.

In addition, we are treated to the iconic N*SYNC hit ‘Bye Bye Bye’ playing in the background throughout the entire thing.

Comic Accurate Wolverine

Upon receiving a warning from the TVA about the impending destruction of his universe due to the loss of their Anchor Being (revealed to be a variant of Wolverine), Deadpool embarks on a mission to locate a replacement and potentially save the day. This leads to a grand montage of various Wolverines from different universes as Deadpool searches for the perfect X-Men version to fill the role.

At the top of his list is the true-to-comic depiction of Wolverine. Despite being a short king, he is often mocked for his height – unlike Jackman’s portrayal, which stands at a towering 6″2, the Wolverine in the comics is closer to 5″3.

Despite this, it became clear that the pair were not well-suited for each other as Deadpool’s comment resulted in him being injured and returned to his original position.

Patch

The vicious cycle of destruction and defeat persists, with the next X-Men character to take on the role of a killer being Patch. This was not unexpected, as we had previously seen him featured in the trailer for Deadpool & Wolverine.

Although Wolverine used the alias Patch in the 1980s, it wasn’t until 2022 that he received his own comic series. Working in Madripoor, Patch prefers to operate alone when seeking justice as a vigilante, which likely explains why he isn’t pleased with Deadpool’s interference.

The rumor that Daniel Radcliffe would make a debut MCU cameo as Patch was circulating, but ultimately, it is Jackman who will take on the role.

Crucified Wolverine

Upon his arrival, Deadpool briefly visits Crucified Wolverine, who is preoccupied on the cross and unable to assist with his grand scheme.

The precise scene is a nod to the cover of Uncanny X-Men #251, as he has been strategically placed there by the Reavers, renowned for their animosity towards mutants.

The team is headed by Donald Pierce, who is also known as the White King, and Lady Deathstrike. However, the only member we encounter is the Wolverine variant.

Glam Rock Wolverine

The original 1980s version of Wolverine, also referred to as “Glam Rock”Wolverine, is known for having the most personality among the group. In a graffiti-filled alley, he meets Deadpool, posing against a wall in a moody manner reminiscent of a Prince album cover. From then on, it’s every man for himself as they use their claws in battle.

In 1982, Wolverine made his debut in the comics, becoming Marvel’s second limited series in its history.

This updated version is more reminiscent of the Wolverine we encounter from 1988 onward. As expected, our rendition reflects the era with its longer hair and stylish black and white loose-fitting attire.

Old Man Logan

In the blink of an eye, Deadpool makes a brief appearance at an old deserted shack in the heart of the forest. On the porch, Old Man Logan – portrayed by Jackman once again – is seen sitting and wastes no time in shooting Deadpool with a shotgun.

This iteration of Wolverine is an elder version from Earth-807128, the protagonist in Logan. In addition, Old Man Logan from Earth-21923 is also recruited to join the X-Men at a different moment in time.

The eight-issue comic series Wolverine: Old Man Logan, which was published from 2008 to 2009, featured his appearance.

Weapon X

In the montage lineup, the most visually appealing character is Wolverine, also known as Weapon X.

Despite its similarities to a standalone series, this variant was actually part of a larger story arc in Marvel Comics Presents #72–84, focusing on Wolverine’s experiences as Weapon X. The narrative has a noticeable slasher horror movie vibe.

Throughout this arc, he remains in a near-mindless state, allowing Abraham Cornelius, Carol Hines, and ‘The Professor’ to step up as the main characters.

Battle between Wolverine and Hulk

Wolverine vs. Hulk in Marvel Comics — Marvel Comics

Prior to his battle with Wolverine, Deadpool makes a brief appearance in his brown suit, as seen in John Byrne’s Wolverine vs. Hulk comics. The Hulk also makes a quick appearance.

This comic was one of the first to take advantage of Wolverine’s increasing popularity, released during Marvel’s 25th anniversary in 1986.

Surprisingly, in the past, this single standalone issue was available for purchase at the price of $2.

Henry Cavill as Wolverine

Henry Cavill with his shirt off in Man of Steel. — Warner Bros.

Alright… so the variant doesn’t exactly resemble this (no Cavil shirts are taken off during the time), but the speculations are correct! Henry Cavill does make an appearance as a Wolverine variant.

This character is a fresh addition to Deadpool, Wolverine, and the broader Marvel universe. He is not very talkative, and it is currently unclear if he will appear in future MCU projects.

Keep a lookout during the end credits to discover the official name of the variant… The Cavillerine.

The worst Wolverine

Logan in in Deadpool & Wolverine. — Disney

As a result, we come back to ‘The Worst Wolverine,’ where Jackman’s portrayal sees him donning the iconic yellow suit for the remainder of the Deadpool & Wolverine narrative.

When we encounter him, he has been heavily drinking, seeking refuge in bars after experiencing a traumatic event (which caused him to abandon those in need) becomes too overwhelming for him.

Is it possible for him to conquer his inner demons? To discover the answer, you’ll need to tune in to Deadpool & Wolverine.

The movie Deadpool & Wolverine is currently showing in theaters. Learn more about the film’s rating, Deadpool’s backstory, and the introduction of Lady Deadpool. Additionally, be sure to browse the new movies available for streaming this month.