DC Prepares Batman’s Rematch with a Villain That Challenges His ‘No Kill’ Rule

Alert! Spoilers Ahead for Batman #156! A fundamental element of Batman‘s persona is his unwavering commitment to preserving life. Regardless of the malevolence of his adversaries, Batman infrequently resorts to lethal measures. Yet, in a recent plot twist, he faces off against an old nemesis who challenges this principle: the infamous KGBeast.

The stakes are higher than ever for Batman, who is already grappling with multiple crises. Following a harrowing battle against the Riddler that nearly cost him Wayne Enterprises, he now confronts a mysterious half-brother who lays claim to his shares. Compounding the chaos, James Gordon has been framed for murder amidst the machinations of the new police commissioner, Vandal Savage, and the lurking threat of the Court of Owls. Meanwhile, a new figure, known as Commander Star, is rallying public sentiment against vigilantes with ambiguous intentions.

Comic book page: Batman Realizes KGBeast Is Commander Star

A Historic Rematch: Batman vs. KGBeast

Batman #156: Crafted by Chip Zdarsky, Tony S. Daniel, Tomeu Morey, and Clayton Cowles

Comic book panels: KGBeast wants to fight Batman

Throughout his storied career, Batman has encountered countless foes, yet he has consistently refrained from taking their lives. Among these antagonists, KGBeast stands out as someone who has caused Batman to toe the line of his moral code. In their initial showdown, KGBeast attempted an assassination plot against the U.S. President, prompting Batman to pursue him down into the sewers. Instead of a traditional confrontation, Batman chose an unthinkable route—he bricked up the exit, effectively condemning KGBeast to an agonizing fate of starvation. Although this narrative was later revised to reveal that Batman informed authorities of KGBeast’s location, the act itself raised profound moral questions.

On another occasion, Batman came perilously close to killing KGBeast after the villain shot Dick Grayson, leaving him in a critical state. In their subsequent clash, Batman utilized his grapple gun in a cruel fashion, delivering a blow that fractured KGBeast’s neck. Leaving him behind with significant injuries in the harsh winter environment was shocking, especially knowing Batman had been aware of government surveillance, which suggested he intended for KGBeast to be rescued but seriously injured.

An Escalating Conflict: Batman and KGBeast

The Urgent Need for Justice

KGBeast’s actions have escalated to unfathomable heights; he was instrumental in Dick Grayson’s memory loss, which lasted over a year. Now, he has incited hostility against Batman and manipulated public sentiment to dismantle societal structures. The threat he poses has intensified as he enjoys the backing of the GCPD, making him more formidable than ever. As they prepare for their inevitable confrontation, one critical question looms: which of these powerful figures will ultimately prevail?

Batman #156 is currently available from DC Comics!

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