10 Pathetic Comic Book Villains You Just Feel Sorry For
2. Gladiator
Melvin Potter suffers from schizophrenia that convinces him that everyone is out to get him, especially superheroes. Believing he was the only one who could defeat the so-called heroes, Potter fashioned a bladed battle-suit and took on the persona of The Gladiator and became a recurring enemy to Daredevil.
Although there are several supervillains who suffer from mental illnesses like Two-Face or the Green Goblin, Gladiator was one of the few who sought help. He underwent therapy with Betsy Beatty, whom he later married. Cured of his ailments, he joined forces with Daredevil and helped him fight The Hand. Daredevil was so proud of Potter's progress, he revealed his secret identity to him and allowed him to work at his office.
Sadly, it was too good to last. When Mister Fear learned of Daredevil's identity, he tried to ruin his life by infecting Potter with his fear toxin, causing his delusions to return. Terrified out of his mind, Potter went on a killing spree and nearly murdered Murdock's wife. Although he was defeated, the damage done to his brain by Mister Fear's chemicals was irreversible.