Slaying Mantis

Description

The Slaying Mantis stands as a distinctive entry in the 2020 Magic: The Gathering Unsanctioned set, identified by card number 69. Created by artist Ben Wootten, this card introduces a humorous take on creature combat through its specific type line: Creature — Insect Wrestler. Unlike standard fantasy monsters, this seven-mana powerhouse blends insect biology with the theatricality of professional wrestling, offering collectors a unique piece of the game's more experimental design history. Mechanically, the Slaying Mantis is designed to disrupt the flow of a match while establishing a formidable board presence. With a power and toughness of 6/6, it commands immediate attention upon entering play. The card’s ability prevents opponents from moving permanents while its spell resolves, effectively freezing the board during its entry sequence. Once on the battlefield, it triggers a fight effect, challenging each creature an opponent controls that it touched during its entry to engage in combat. For Magic: The Gathering collectors, the Unsanctioned set represents a celebrated era of non-canon, joke cards that expanded the game's creative boundaries. The Slaying Mantis captures this spirit perfectly, appealing to those who appreciate the game's history of whimsical design and unconventional mechanics. Its Uncommon rarity makes it an accessible yet meaningful addition to any dedicated collection focused on the Un-sets or creature-centric themes. Whether you are building a themed deck around wrestlers or simply admiring the intricate rules text, this card offers a memorable interaction that highlights the versatility of the TCG format.