Batman Celebrates 30 Years of The Dark Knight: Acknowledging the Hero Behind His Transformation

Warning: contains spoilers for Black Canary: Best of the Best #1!

After three decades of anticipation, Batman has finally acknowledged the pivotal role of an unexpected ally during one of his most challenging periods. In the legendary Knightfall storyline, Bane shatters Batman’s back, forcing Bruce Wayne into a vulnerable position. While Azrael takes on the mantle of Gotham’s defender in his absence, Bruce embarks on a global journey to restore his focus, aided significantly by a masterful hero who receives a prominent mention in the latest release, Black Canary: Best of the Best #1.

This edition features an extraordinary match between Black Canary and Lady Shiva, aiming to settle the debate over who reigns supreme as the best hand-to-hand combatant in the DC Universe.

During the match, Lady Shiva is extolled as “better” than Batman, receiving accolades for guiding him toward the “path to perfection.”

Understanding Lady Shiva: DC’s Lethal Assassin, and a Sometimes Ally to Batman

A Combatant Like No Other in the DC Universe

Indeed, the ring announcer is correct: Lady Shiva played a crucial role in Batman’s recovery post his devastating encounter with Bane. During the Knightfall arc, Bane infiltrates the Batcave, engaging an already weary and overextended Dark Knight. In Batman #497 (1993), Bane accomplished what others deemed impossible: he broke Batman. Yet, despite his physical incapacitation, Batman immediately initiates a plan for recovery, which includes temporarily entrusting the Batman legacy to Azrael—a decision fraught with peril. Crucially, Lady Shiva was instrumental during this rehabilitative phase of Batman’s journey.

Lady Shiva, created by writer Denny O’Neil and artist Ric Estrada, first appeared in Richard Dragon, Kung Fu Fighter #5 in 1975. She is a formidable assassin, proficient in a broad spectrum of martial arts. Her moral compass is intricate, oscillating between heroism and villainy. Notably, Shiva has significantly impacted the lives of various characters, including training Tim Drake in his early days as Robin, and even collaborating with Batman prior to his debilitating injury.

Batman’s Debt to Lady Shiva

Recognizing Three Decades of Influence

The aftermath of Knightfall transitioned into the Knightquest and Knightsend arcs, where Bruce Wayne ultimately reclaims his identity as Batman from Azrael, a feat made possible largely by Lady Shiva. The trauma inflicted by Bane left deep psychological scars on Batman, sowing seeds of doubt about his identity as a hero. Lady Shiva was not only pivotal in restoring Batman’s physical prowess but also in fortifying his mental and spiritual resolve.

Thanks to her guidance, Batman was able to rediscover his strength and reclaim his role as Gotham’s defender. Since the Knightfall trilogy, Batman has proven instrumental in foiling villains, thwarting alien attacks, and navigating multiple crises—accomplishments that owe much to the expertise and mentorship provided by Lady Shiva. Her influence helped him look within and reassess his identity, enabling him to respond to challenges with renewed vigor and determination. Despite her notoriety as a lethal fighter and assassin in the DC Universe, Lady Shiva often remains uncredited for her foundational role in revitalizing Batman’s career during his darkest days.

Don’t miss your chance to dive into Black Canary: Best of the Best #1, available now from DC Comics!

Source & Images