Axel Hawk is a character introduced in Fatal Fury 2. He is also the teacher and friend of Michael Max. He was an unplayable character in Fatal Fury 2, serving as the second sub-boss of the game. In Fatal Fury Special, Axel was introduced as a playable character with many tweaks and new moves available.

Axel is a former heavyweight boxing champion. He retired from the ring to stay in good health, but was scouted by Wolfgang Krauser. Convinced of Krauser's skill and still feeling bloodlust from his boxing days, he agreed to be one of Krauser’s three defenders. However, Axel grew worried for his mother's well-being while working for the crime lord and quit crime after Krauser's defeat.

After that, Axel started training alongside Michael Max, who taught Axel his signature move, the Tornado Uppercut.

He is also mentioned to be an acquaintance of Franco Bash. In Bob Wilson's ending for Fatal Fury 3, Franco and Axel have a drinking contest.