Richard Dragon, Kung Fu Fighter #7

Richard Dragon, Kung Fu Fighter #7 was published by DC Comics in 1976 during the height of the 1970s martial arts craze in American pop culture. The series was created by Dennis O'Neil and Jim Berry, with the titular character designed to capitalize on the mainstream fascination with kung fu cinema and the philosophy of the martial arts. The series stood out from the typical superhero fare of the era by focusing on a gritty, international espionage narrative centered on a master combatant.

The art for this issue reflects the kinetic, action-oriented style characteristic of the period's combat-heavy titles. It was part of an ambitious effort by DC to diversify its offerings beyond caped crusaders, aiming to ground the character in a more realistic, albeit highly stylized, world. While the series was short-lived, it remains a notable example of how the comic book industry adapted to shifting cultural trends, and it has since garnered a reputation as a cult favorite among historians of the bronze age of comics.