In the DC Comics universe, Doomsday is a powerful and nearly indestructible villain, most famously known for killing Superman in the iconic storyline “The Death of Superman” (1992). However, over time, various characters have fought and defeated Doomsday. Here are some of the key characters who have overcome or beaten Doomsday in different comic storylines:
1. Superman (in “The Death of Superman” and beyond)
- The Fight: Superman famously battles Doomsday in the “Death of Superman” storyline, where both characters unleash an incredible amount of power, ultimately leading to Superman’s death. However, Superman does not technically defeat Doomsday in this fight, as they both kill each other.
- Resurrection and Revenge: Superman is later resurrected, and Doomsday is often defeated in subsequent battles, but in many storylines, it takes the combined efforts of Superman and others or the use of special abilities and tactics to subdue him.
- Final Defeat: In some alternate continuities, Superman has been shown to defeat Doomsday by either containing him or using specialized weapons or tactics.
2. Justice League (in various storylines)
- In some iterations, the Justice League (especially Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, and other powerful heroes) have teamed up to stop Doomsday after his initial appearance. Their teamwork, along with the combined efforts of multiple heroes, often results in Doomsday’s temporary defeat or imprisonment.
- In “Superman: Doomsday” (2007 animated film), the Justice League fights Doomsday alongside Superman, but Superman is again the key figure in overcoming the creature.
3. Lex Luthor (in “Superman: Doomsday”)
- In the Superman: Doomsday animated film, Lex Luthor manages to trap Doomsday using his knowledge and resources, taking advantage of the creature’s one-track mind and limited intelligence. Luthor, often seen as a villain, plays a pivotal role in containing the threat of Doomsday, though it is ultimately the combined efforts of the heroes and Superman’s sacrifice that bring an end to the battle.
4. Wonder Woman (in “The New 52” storyline)
- In The New 52 continuity of DC Comics, Wonder Woman faces off against Doomsday and shows her combat prowess by holding her own in battle. However, while she can inflict damage, defeating Doomsday requires the involvement of other powerful heroes, including Superman, who later kills or contains the monster.
5. The Justice League of America (in the “Doomsday” storyline)
- During the events of “Justice League of America” #7 (2007), the League fights Doomsday. In this battle, Doomsday is initially seen as nearly unbeatable, but the combined power of the Justice League members, such as Superman, Green Lantern, and Batman, manage to outsmart or overpower him. However, Doomsday’s resilience means the League often requires multiple strategies to stop him.
6. Batman (in “Doomsday Clock”)
- In “Doomsday Clock” (2017-2019), Batman and other heroes fight versions of Doomsday, but it’s typically a larger group effort rather than a single person who can defeat him directly. Batman, though not as powerful as Superman, is often crucial in planning strategies to contain Doomsday.
7. Darkseid (in some versions)
- Darkseid, one of the most powerful beings in the DC Universe, has had a hand in containing or defeating Doomsday in various storylines. In some continuities, Darkseid has been shown to control or fight Doomsday, though the relationship between the two characters is often complex and varies depending on the storyline.
Key Notes:
- Doomsday’s Unique Ability: Doomsday is known for his adaptability—whenever he is killed or harmed in a specific way, he comes back stronger and harder to defeat, making him a unique and ongoing challenge for heroes in the DC Universe.
- Superman’s Resurrection: After his apparent death at the hands of Doomsday, Superman is resurrected (in the “Return of Superman” arc), and he faces the creature once again, often with the help of other heroes. Over time, however, Doomsday becomes a recurring threat that requires creative and powerful strategies to defeat.
In summary, Superman is often the one who takes down Doomsday in the end, though he has had to sacrifice himself or work with other characters (like the Justice League) to finally subdue or contain the villain. However, Doomsday’s adaptability and regenerative powers mean that his defeat is never permanent, making him a recurring threat in DC Comics.