The self-proclaimed King of Dream Land returns for a second round in the ring, as King Dedede has been confirmed for the upcoming Super Smash Bros. Wii U/3DS.

As part of yesterday’s launch of Kirby: Triple Deluxe in Japan, Smash Bros. Director Masahiro Sakurai announced that Kirby’s primary antagonist and ruler of Dream Land, King Dedede will return as a playable character in the new Super Smash Bros. title for Wii U and 3DS. While his debut didn’t arrive with a trailer, several screenshots showcase Dedede’s trademark mallet and animated facial reactions:

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Super Smash Bros. Wii U/3DS is expected to release sometime later this year.

Sources: Smash Bros. Official Website, Miiverse
Images courtesy of Nintendo