Greetings Bat boys and girls. Time for a new match-up. Lex Luthor vs. Batman. Just to reiterate, we’re using the same criteria as Superman vs. Batman.
We’ll be looking at Jeph Loeb’s Superman/Batman: Public Enemies. If you’re not familiar with the plot, Lex puts a bounty on Superman’s head and Bats help Big Blue get out of trouble. Especially considering Lex is the President at this point in continuity. Now, to business kids.
The Criteria
1) Motivation
Batman – To clear Superman’s name, and to stop the Kryptonite asteroid from destroying the planet. Point.
Lex Luthor – To blacklist Superman, destroy the asteroid, and potentially kill Superman and Bats in the process. So, feeding his ego, as ever. Point.
2) Preparation
Batman – In this case, not much as far as going against Lex. However, his usual assortment of gadgets and his incredible intellect. More than enough preparation to match wits with Luthor. Especially considering you know that whatever plan Superman has will never be as good as any that Batman comes up with. Point.
Lex Luthor – Some preparation, but not for Batman. He’s more prepared to deal with Superman. However, he gets the point because for causing the showdown to occur by enacting his plans in the first place. Point.
3) Caution/Wariness/Vigilance
Batman – Incredibly wary, for Clark’s sake especially. Ever-vigilant. His quick thinking, and action saves Clark’s life from a Kryptonite bullet. Point.
Lex Luthor – He’s cautious enough to have acquired an Apokolips-tech suit of armor to fight Superman with, but neither vigilant nor wary. Far too arrogant for that. No point.
4) Abilities/Gadgets Used
Batman – The hybrid Superman/Batman rocket built with the same material that makes up Metallo’s body (the only metal known to be able to house and withstand Kryptonite radiation). This rocket is designed to destroy the Kryptonite asteroid. He also utilizes several incendiary devices on Metallo and his usual assortment of Batarangs and his martial skills are certainly tested in this book. Point.
Lex Luthor – Apokolips-tech suit of armor; check. Venom-Kryptonite steroid mix; check. Presidential status! I consider that something in his arsenal. Point.
5) Environment
This one doesn’t really matter much for either of them. I would give Bruce the point for buying the old LuthorCorp tower (and then pointing out that Luthor is trespassing at the end of the story arc) but honestly, it’s not an advantage. No points for either.
6) Allies/Rogues Involved
Batman: Superman(!), Tim Drake (Robin), Dick Grayson (Nightwing), Huntress, Cassandra Cain (Batgirl), Hiro (the new Toyman), Captain Atom, Power Girl, Alfred (uses his surgical skills to save Superman), and Katana. Point.
Lex Luthor: Captain Atom (at least until he comes to his senses), Amanda Waller, Darkseid (built him the armored suit), Black Lightning, Starfire, Katana, Metallo, Hawkman, Captain Marvel, Major Force, John Stewart (Green Lantern), Mongul, Grodd, Banshee, Solomon Grundy, Nightshade, Lady Shiva, Captain Cold, Mr. Freeze, Icicle, Killer Frost, and many more rogues. Point.
7) Memorable for this story?
Batman: Yep! So many good lines I don’t even know where to begin. Point.
Lex Luthor: Definitely. Lex is a showman in every story. And he puts on a hell of a show in this one. Point.
The final count:
| Criteria |
||
| Motivation |
 |
 |
| Preparation | |
|
| Caution/Wariness/Vigilance | |
|
| Abilities/Gadgets Used | |
|
| Environment |
|
|
| Allies/Rogues Involved |  |
|
| Is the story memorable? | |
|
| Overall Round Winner |
|
That’s Lex with five points and Bruce with six points . Batman wins this round.
Next up: Batman vs. Lex in Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Strikes Again!
Posted by Chris Gering
