Thanks to every new hero introduced. Most fans have different criteria and opinions about what makes the strongest hero, and even the Avengers themselves have debated the topic in-universe. Though there are a few clear frontrunners when it comes to strength, power to a superhero means more than pure brute strength.

In a universe filled with superpowered individuals and advanced technology, simply being strong won’t win someone’s influence in the MCU. Power comes in all different forms, whether it means physicality or social standing. Daredevil: Born Again recently showed how some of New York’s most powerful people aren’t superpowered at all, and what makes them influential is something that Tony Stark also had. Tony may not always stand out in a team full of gods and extraterrestrial beings, but he has one key asset that cements his place among the Avengers’ higher ranks.

Daredevil: Born Again Just Confirmed The Most Powerful People In New York

Wilson Fisk’s story has come a long way since his debut in the original Daredevil series. After years of physical and social struggles, he’s finally found himself at his most powerful in Daredevil: Born Again. It’s baffling how he managed to run for office in the first place, but the power that Fisk has now as mayor of New York City is undeniable. He’s always had an incredibly strong social influence, but now he has government resources at his disposal too. Fisk essentially runs the city with few able to oppose him, and that is the power he’s always craved.

New York’s old-money families clearly hold some of the most influence in the city, acting similar to DC’s Court of Owls criminal organization, just with less secrecy.

However, episode 6 of Daredevil: Born Again showed how Fisk may not have as much unlimited power as one might think. During a fundraising gala with New York high society, Fisk acknowledges how crucial their would be for his redevelopment plans. Without their approval and money, the plan would likely fall through. Even as mayor, Fisk feels the need to prove himself to these elites. New York’s old-money families clearly hold some of the most influence in the city, acting similar to DC’s Court of Owls criminal organization, just with less secrecy.

Born Again Confirms Tony Stark Was More Powerful Than We Ever Knew

In the early days of the MCU, Tony’s billionaire lifestyle was played off as an explanation for his attitude. The Avengers eventually found a use for his wealth as they used it as a resource to build the team, but it was always seen as nothing more than pure money. Tony’s billionaire status and overall societal power were just considered perks for the team, but it might’ve given Tony much more power beyond his Iron Man suit when it came to influencing the individuals that mattered.

Now knowing how New York’s elite control plenty of what’s happening in the city, Tony definitely would’ve been up there in of wealth, and his influence would only grow with his Iron Man reveal. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Tony’s money and social status helped to shape New York politics behind the scenes, giving him power that none of the other Avengers have. Kingpin’s struggles in Daredevil: Born Again prove just how much the rich control, and it’s possible that Tony used his societal standing to swing things in the Avengers’ favor from time to time.

MCU Movies

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  The Fantastic Four: First Steps

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  Avengers: Doomsday (2026)

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  Spider-Man: Brand New Day

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  Avengers: Secret Wars

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