In the main Marvel Comics reality, Doctor Octopus took over the body of Peter Parker. However, inspired by his nobility, Dr. Otto Octavius resolved to prove himself the Superior Spider-Man. Now, Otto has donned the Spider-Man suit in the Ultimate Universe, but not to prove himself as a hero.
The Ultimate Superior Spider-Man premiered in Ultimate Spider-Man #22 by Jonathan Hickman and Marco Checchetto. The issue opened with someone in a Spider-Man suit swinging around Manhattan. However, based on their callous attitude, it was clear that it was not Peter Parker.
(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Marco Checchetto)
The new Spider-Man is eventually unmasked as Dr. Otto Octavius. In the new Ultimate Universe, he is an employee of Harry Osborn, providing technical support for his Green Goblin gear. Otto is far from friendly, however, and just as arrogant as his Earth-616 counterpart.
Why Otto Octavius becomes a Superior Spider-Man
Otto is eventually revealed to have been sent out to pick up dinner for the Parker family, who are currently hiding in the subterrain realm of the Mole Man. He donned the Spider-Man suit because it enabled him to traverse the difficult terrain between surface-level New York City and the underworld. It also enabled him to avoid the traffic jams of Manhattan, but that was a minor consideration.
(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Marco Checchetto)
While the Superior Spider-Man is nominally on the side of the heroes, this scene shows that Otto Octavius is still a jerk on any Earth. Otto goes out of his way to try and get young May Parker’s dinner order wrong. She asked for extra soy sauce, but Otto threatens the restaurant employee to make sure there is no soy sauce. No explanation is given for this beyond the suggestion that Otto finds May annoying.
(Image Source: Marvel Comics / Marco Checchetto)
Luckily for May, even in an underground realm, her Uncle Jonah keeps soy sauce in his desk. This further adds to the comedy of the whole scenario. First, because Otto Octavius becomes the Superior Spider-Man for so silly a reason. Secondly, because his petty effort at evil is easily (if accidentally) thwarted. And by J. Jonah Jameson of all people!
Ultimate Spider-Man #22 is now available at comic shops everywhere.