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As soon as the Fox/Disney merger reached finalization, questions surrounding the X-Men began to surface, as fans were able to deduce how and why the MCU could benefit from their incorporation. It goes without saying that the mutants will be joining the super saviors who have come to define the Marvel cinematic landscape; however, how and when they will make their entrace remains unconfirmed. And, Shang-Chi may be the first MCU film to answer some of our mutant inquiries.

Shang-Chi MCU
President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige, Director Destin Daniel Cretton and Simu Liu of Marvel Studios’ ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’ | Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

All signs suggest that the X-Men will not enter as a unified force via a standalone installment; rather, the mutants will likely come to participate in various Avengers films, teaming up with or posing a threat to the heroes already existing. In time, after multiple supporting roles lead to a mass of mutants, the Brotherhood and the X-Men will come into greater focus, allowing Kevin Feige and Co. to put out an X-Men film that is well-substantiated and fits within the current timeline. 

As for some of the first mutants set to join the MCU, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings may provide a suitable entrance. Recent insider reports suggest that two X-Men characters may make their debuts in the upcoming Phase 4 installment about the master martial artists. So, who should fans expect?

1. Is Wiz Kid on the way?  

We Got This Covered (WGTC) recently reported — relying on intel from Marvel insider Daniel Richtman — that Wiz Kid is due to appear in the Shang-Chi movie. Richtman’s tweet read, “I have learned there is a character in Shang Chi who’s a mutant in the comics. Wiz Kid. No idea if he’ll be a mutant in the film tho…” 

In the comics, Wiz Kid is one of the several mutants in the Marvel world. So, what is he capable of? Wiz Kid, aka Taki Matsuya, has the ability to rearrange parts of machinery made of metal, plastic, or glass to create various items (often weapons). His capabilities are described as “technoforming.”  In one famous Marvel comic, Cyclops has to save Taki, so he is intimately involved with some of the mutants popularized by the recent Fox franchise. 

2. Psylocke may appear in ‘Shang-Chi’

Rumor has it that Betsy Braddock, aka Psylocke, may be coming to the MCU. The reports come from the same sources who knew Deadpool 3 was in active development way before such news became common knowledge. 

While many Marvel fans consider Psyclocke an Omega-level mutant (a title reserved for characters who boast the greatest capabilities within their mutant category), the extent of her powers remains controversial. Yet, her powers are definitely interesting, as she is a telepath capable of manipulating minds and projecting psychic blasts. She will allegedly participate in a tournament against Simu Liu (the main character) in the upcoming Phase 4 installment. 

If Psychoke joins the MCU, those behind the film will have free reign with her depiction — they can choose to make her Jean Grey-level impressive or play down her skills to fit with the movie’s narrative goals. All remains to be seen.

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