(Image Source: Marvel / Adam Kubert)
One of the odder absences in the new Ultimate Universe was that of Clint Barton. The first issue of The Ultimates suggested that he had refused to take up the Hawkeye mantle. He finally made an appearance in Ultimate Hawkeye #1, only to be unceremoniously killed off. Somehow, his death has raised more questions than before.

Written by B. Earl and Taboo, with art by Michael Sta. Maria, Ultimate Hawkeye #1 centers around Charli Ramsey. A Native American activist with a grudge against the Roxxon corporation, Ramsey discovered the costume and trick arrows seemingly abandoned by Clint Barton. However, he was still welcomed into the Ultimates after proving his worth.

Ramsey infiltrates an elite upper class orgy, hoping to get incriminating pictures of various corrupt officials. Unfortunately, his cover is quickly blown. However, instead of killing him, the new Hawkeye is run through a gauntlet for the amusement of his rich captors.

(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Michael Sta. Maria)

This test of his skills ends with him facing a masked man called Ronin in a fight to the death. For extra added incentive, the two gladiators are told that their families will die with them if they lose or refuse to fight. Ramsey wins the fight without killing, using a flare arrow to blind Ronin. This leads to the revelation that Ronin is the new Ultimate Universe version of Clint Barton.

How does Clint Barton die in Ultimate Hawkeye?

Despite the threat to his family, Charlie Ramsey still refuses to kill Clint Barton. This leads Exterminatrix, the villain overseeing the entertainment of the party, to kill Barton herself. She uses her trademark Midas Bullets, which turn whatever or whoever they touch into gold. This effectively kills Barton, transforming him into a solid gold statue.

(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Michael Sta. Maria)

For some reason, Charli Ramsey is set free despite his refusal to kill for the amusement of his captors. He is also offered a chance to become the new Ronin and act as the champion of Roxxon. The comic ends with him resolving to go spend some time with his family and confirm they are okay. The status of Clint Barton’s family, however, goes unrevealed.

The fate of Clint Barton in the new Ultimate Universe is altogether anticlimactic. Nothing is revealed of why he refused to become Hawkeye or how he came to become Ronin. This is disappointing, given there are elements of an engaging story here. If nothing else, it is novel to see a Hawkeye with a family like the MCU, when he’s single and childless in the main Marvel Universe.

Ultimate Hawkeye #1 is now available at comic shops everywhere.