Lion Knight Mario

This piece is my presentation of a situation that's interesting to me: what if Mario and the gang could access a more powerful version of the Cat Suit?  My answer to that - armor bearing features of big cats.  In this case, Mario has his Lion Knight Armor.  My reason for giving Mario lion-like characteristics: like the mighty lion, Mario is always leading the group, has great strength, and demonstrates tremendous courage in the face of impossible odds.  In addition, parts of Mario's new suit are inspired by the various types of battle armor worn by Vegeta, as well as the Commando pauldrons available for Spartans in Halo: Reach.  I'll provide a backstory that will explain how Mario achieved this new suit soon.  I plan on doing the same for Luigi, Peach, Daisy, and Toad in the future.  Do not claim this as your own artwork.