Warning: Spoilers for Superman #21 ahead! The notorious Doomsday is a cataclysmic force of nature, consistently bringing him into conflict with Superman. Over the decades, their epic confrontations have been framed as a battle between good and evil, with Superman always striving to thwart Doomsday’s catastrophic intentions. However, recent developments reveal that Doomsday has galvanized a host of adversaries across the universe, all of whom are eager to confront him.
Despite Superman’s persistent efforts to eliminate this formidable threat, he has often been met with frustration. Recent events in the comic series show that Superman finally encounters an opportunity to banish Doomsday for good in Superman #21, written by Joshua Williamson and illustrated by Dan Mora.
While Doomsday lies weakened by the effects of Black Mercy venom, an alien coalition known as the Aftermath descends upon Earth to demand his surrender. Their presence might just provide Superman with the resources necessary to finally rid the universe of this monster.
The Aftermath: A Coalition Ready for Revenge
Insights on Superman #21
Superman wrestles with the fact that Doomsday remains a relentless threat to his loved ones. Past attempts to vanquish the creature have proven futile; even after sending Doomsday to Hell, he returned, more powerful than ever. Indeed, a chilling prophecy suggests that their battle is eternal—a grim fate for Superman, mirroring a world where he might be perpetually tormented by his fiercest rival.
Enter the Aftermath, a coalition of alien civilizations ravaged by Doomsday’s destructive rampage. These factions have united with the singular goal of avenging their losses. While their methods remain unclear, the coalition has certainly strategized a means to confront Doomsday, likely developing weapons or containment measures that could either destroy or imprison him indefinitely. Notably, Doomsday’s brute strength may not suffice against adversaries who plan their approach meticulously.
Historically, Doomsday has not faced an enemy that has plotted extensively for his defeat. Apart from a few instances like Superman / Doomsday: Hunter / Prey, where Superman donned a specialized suit, his fights with Doomsday have been characterized more by raw power than calculated strategy. Unlike Superman, the Aftermath is fully aware of their previous encounter with Doomsday and the potential to succeed where others have failed.
The Coalition’s Leadership: The Calatonians
A Critical Encounter: The Calatonians
Before his infamous arrival on Earth, Doomsday wreaked havoc across countless worlds, even harnessing a Green Lantern ring to traverse space. His destructive path brought him to Calaton, where he encountered a foe he could not easily defeat. In a desperate act of sacrifice, the royal family invoked their champion, Radiant, leading to a pivotal battle that marked Doomsday’s first downfall post-Krypton.
The Aftermath has meticulously planned their return, knowing the threat Doomsday poses. Their previous encounter almost led to Doomsday’s demise; had they simply destroyed him, the universe might have been spared further chaos. Instead, they buried him—an oversight that allowed him to resurrect and return stronger than ever. Doomsday’s subsequent clash with Radiant resulted in catastrophe for Calaton, underscoring the unresolved consequences of their mercy.
Doomsday’s Past Confronts Him Again
A Legacy of Enemies
The DC Universe is populated with a myriad of powerful beings, many of whom harbor grievances against Doomsday. With the Calatonians leading an armed armada, their collective determination to vanquish him presents a real threat. They possess the advantage of time and planning, bolstered by a history of overcoming him before. While Superman has long sought a resolution to his Doomsday dilemma, he may find that the former victims of Doomsday have come together for one climactic confrontation.
Superman #21 is currently available at stores, marking a pivotal moment in this long-standing saga from DC Comics!
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