T’Chaka was involved in a series of events involving his friend and ambassador from Wakanda, N’Kano, being attacked by a racist militant group called the Soldiers of the Serpent. With help from the superhero team, A-Next, T’Chaka was able to drive away the Soldiers of the Serpent.
The first time A-Next offered membership to Coal Tiger, he declined stating that he will always be there if the team was in need. After the abduction and subsequent rescue of A-Next by Coal Tiger and several other superheroes, Coal Tiger was offered membership again; this time he accepted.