10 Most Brutal Fights In Superman Comics

This 2001 comic is a story of conflicting ideologies and morality in a complex world with even more complex individuals. It pits Superman against the Elite, a new team of extremely powerful but violent antiheroes whose approach to protecting the world involves lethal and unforgiving force.

The team (consisting of Manchester Black, Coldcast, the Hat, and Menagerie) argue that their approach is what the world needs, and to Superman's shock the public supports their extremist ideology. The unexpected public support creates doubt in the hero, who begins to wonder if his approach is relevant in the modern world.

Following a misunderstanding between Superman and the antiheroes, they challenge him to a deathmatch that takes place on Jupiter's moon, Io. Initially, the Elite's savagery gives them the upper hand over the hero, and they seemingly kill him in a massive explosion. However, Superman survives the blast and uses his overwhelming speed to deal with the other members of the team except for Manchester.

He then reveals that his change in approach was a ruse to highlight the flaw in the Elite's methodology. The fight may have ended without casualties, but was a clear example of how dangerous the Man of Steel could be if he ever stopped holding back.