5/5 of the Tekken Transformation pics - and the one that triggered the whole idea. Drawn by  WrathofAutumn.

"While having no connection with the mergers, this is a change of note. During King's last fight with Armor King, something about King's mask triggers a hidden power never known before. King feels a great strength well through him as his body changes, fur sprouting and his mask merging with his face. The being facing Armor King is no longer a man but a jaguar man.

Though he has new profound strength, nothing has changed for King. He still works at the orphanage and he still wrestles. The majority don't know the difference as they've never seen him with the mask off. Perhaps a stronger desire to protect other exists, but he is still King through and through."