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Warning: Spoilers for Action Comics #1079
For decades, DC fans have wrestled with whether Shazam can beat Superman in a fight. Their respective superhuman abilities elevate them both to god-tier status, yet there still isn’t definitive proof that Shazam is strong enough to overpower Superman if they were to fight at maximum strength. Now, Shazam is finally ready to put his powers to the test against a rampaging Kryptonian.
In a preview for Action Comics #1079 by Mark Waid, Clayton Henry, Michael Shelfer, Matt Herms, and Dave Sharpe, the weekly “Phantoms” story reaches a shocking climax as the prisoners of the Phantom Zone are unleashed upon Earth. These rogue Kryptonians are now fueled by a yellow sun, elevating them to Superman’s level of power as they cause wanton destruction across the planet.
With Superman out of commission for the time being, other superheroes step up to defend the Earth in his stead, including Superboy and the rest of Superman’s family. Shazam eventually joins the fight, and he just might stand a chance against a Kryptonian.
Shazam Is Ready to Settle Whether He’s Stronger Than Kryptonians
Shazam’s Superman-Level Strength Gets Put to the Ultimate Test
Shazam, presently referred to as “The Captain”, is one of the few heroes in the DC Universe whose strength is known to rival Superman’s. Young Billy Batson’s powers grant him the abilities of ancient godlike figures, which he unlocks by speaking one word: “Shazam!” With his powers in tow, including super-strength and superhuman durability, the Captain can perform extraordinary feats that have earned him membership in the Justice League alongside the likes of Superman. Still, although he’s technically on par with the Man of Steel, the Captain has yet to officially cement himself as Superman’s true superior.
Shazam’s Connection to Billy Batson Just Got a Major DC Makeover
DC has permanently redefined the relationship between Billy Batson and his heroic alter ego Shazam with one stunning confession in Shazam #18.
Action Comics #1079 looks to change that, presenting the Captain with an opportunity to face a Kryptonian in a no-holds-barred brawl. When the Captain arrives on the scene, the Kryptonian prisoner appears to have already struck down Blue Beetle and Hawkman in his conquest. Then, upon noticing the arrival of Earth’s Mightiest Mortal, he says, “What sort of death wish do you have?” Clearly, this Kryptonian doesn’t realize that the Captain can stand up to him and potentially even defeat him. After all, Shazam has proven he can put up a fight against Kryptonians in his past bouts against Superman.
Shazam vs. Superman: Who Would Really Win in a Fight?
Shazam’s Next Battle Will Determine If He Can Defeat Superman
Shazam and Superman have actually fought plenty of times before, with varied results. Though Superman has frequently won, such as in Waid and Alex Ross’ Kingdom Come, the Captain’s magic-based powers have also allowed him to exploit a critical Kryptonian weakness and gain an advantage. Ultimately, though, these superheroes can never fully duke it out – barring mind control, manipulation, and alternate universe scenarios – because they’re on the same side. Here, the Captain can fight a full-powered Kryptonian without holding back. Shazam‘s ultimate Kryptonian battle will settle once and for all whether he has what it takes to beat Superman.
Action Comics #1079 is available December 11th, 2024 from DC Comics.
Shazam
Originally known as Captain Marvel, the magical champion Shazam is a DC Comics superhero who gains his powers from various mythological figures: Solomon’s wisdom, Hercules’ strength, Atlas’ stamina, Zeus’ power, Achilles’ courage, and Mercury’s speed. When child Billy Batson utters the phrase “Shazam,” he transforms into an adult superhero with these combined abilities. Shazam fights villains alongside the Marvel Family, embodying the ideals of heroism, justice, and magic in the DC Universe.
“}]] Shazam prepares for the ultimate Kryptonian brawl. Read More