After a string of galactic-level threats (the Annihilation Wave, the Phalanx's conquest of the Kree, the War of Kings, and the Cancerverse invasion), Cosmo tries to fulfill the dream of his deceased friend and former Guardian of the Galaxy Star-Lord by assembling a proactive team to stop threats before the universe is in danger.

He recruits the most powerful individuals he knows: the human Quasar, the Kree Ronan the Accuser, the Shi'ar Gladiator, the Korbinite Beta Ray Bill, and Herald of Galactus Silver Surfer.

[11] Later, while trying to end a conflict between two factions of the Universal Church of Truth, the Annihilators learn of a plot to revive the Magus.

[12] They travel to Earth where the resurrection is happening but are unable to prevent it due to a conflict with the Avengers, who mistake the Annihilators for an invasion force.

[13] The Magus attempts to possess other humans on Earth,[14] but Gladiator, Quasar, Ronan, and Iron Man are able to trick him back into his cocoon.