Kinnikuman aka Ultimate M.U.S.C.L.E. Turns 40

Known in the United States as M.U.S.C.L.E., or those little pink rubber wrestler guys, Kinnikuman is an institution in Weekly Shonen Jump where it was featured from 1979 until 1987. The comic has spawned an anime series that lasted for three years and 137 episodes. The franchise has also created a cavalcade of spinoff manga, video games, movies, television and of course the kinkeshi toys that we all know and love.

As reported on Yahoo Japan, Kinnikuman will be celebrating its 40th anniversary with a “40th Anniversary Exhibition of Kinnikuman Friendship” (thanks Google Translate), which will be an exhibition of artwork and memorabilia.

The exhibition will display over 100 color illustrations, original drawings and more from debut works to the latest works.  At the venue, the theme is “History of Yudetamago Sensei”, “The Super-Humans who fought against Kinnikuman”, “The Battle Track for Life”, “The Friendship Power”, “New Chapter New Battle!”, “Nostalgic Treasure Goods” and “Photo Spot” An exhibition along the way will be held. 

Cinra.Net via Goggle Translate

With events taking place in the fall in Osaka (September 18th), Tokyo (October 16th), and Nagoya (November 23rd) the celebration of Kinnikuman is in full swing. So get your M.U.S.C.L.E. on because those little rubber guys and the comic that they come from are all turning 40.