All-Flash #13

When a scathing article in *Clamor* magazine casts doubt on his heroic legacy, the Flash makes the shocking decision to hang up his cowl and retire. With crime surging across the city, it seems all hope is lost—until Muscleman steps forward, ready to take on the chaos left in the Flash’s absence.

In "Campaign against the Flash! Chapter Two: Help Wanted: Muscleman!", a towering djinn emerges to challenge the newly arrived hero Muscleman, quickly proving too much for him to handle. The Flash, tempted to return from retirement to face the threat, steps in—only to realize the foe is a mechanized man, a revelation that deepens his decision to stay away.

In "Campaign against the Flash! Chapter Three: The Flash Steps Out!" from All-Flash #13 (1943), Muscleman’s sudden turn to crime sets up a showdown with the Flash—only for the Scarlet Speedster to arrive and find Muscleman facing an unexpected opponent. The twist leaves the Flash stunned, as the real threat remains hidden in plain sight.

In "Campaign against the Flash! Chapter Four: The Return of the Flash!" from All-Flash #13 (1943), Jay Garrick, having stepped away from his heroic duties, is pulled back into action when he uncovers the true identity of the mysterious Muscleman. With the fate of a new hero hanging in the balance, the Flash must decide whether to rejoin the fight and guide the next generation—before it’s too late.