As far back as last year, people involved in Marvel Studios’ films have denied rumors that they are building towards a big screen adaptation for the acclaimed ‘Planet Hulk’ comic book storyline. Not only has actor Mark Ruffalo squashed those talks, but Marvel Cinematic Universe Overlord Joss Whedon put them down as well. However, new reports this week seem to indicate that a few things from that arc may manifest themselves in some way after ‘The Avengers: Age of Ultron’. Now, that idea has been reinforced by ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ director James Gunn.

In a post on his Instagram account, the filmmaker shared a behind the scenes photo where he is standing on a piece of an alien spaceship known as a Necrocraft. According to this post, the ship belongs to the people of Sakaar. There are even some soldiers from that planet standing behind him. You can check it out below:

Funny thing about Sakaar is that it was first introduced in ‘Planet Hulk’. It happens to be the planet where Hulk lands after the Illuminati launches him into space and is enslaved as a gladiator before he leads an uprising and becomes the new king. While they may not be planning to directly adapt the story, it certainly looks like those crafting the MCU are giving themselves the option to go there if necessary.

What do you think about James Gunn introducing the Sakaarans in ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’? Do you see them playing an integral role in whatever is in store for Star-Lord and company? And what other elements from ‘Planet Hulk’ could you see being introduced before the Hulk’s next appearance after ‘The Avengers: Age of Ultron’? Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below.

‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ starring Chris Pratt, Dave Bautista, Zoe Saldana, Vin Diesel, Bradley Cooper, Lee Pace, Karen Gillan, Benicio Del Toro, and Michael Rooker blasts off on August 1st, 2014.