2026 is starting with incredibly significant changes in the world of comics. A bold decision to dramatically revise established storylines is the driving force behind this historic shift.
There’s been some discussion, and even disagreement, about what exactly happened between Batman and the Joker in DC K.O. #4. However, it’s undeniable that the recent encounter between Lex Luthor and Superman has fundamentally altered their relationship.
Let’s quickly review the rules. The DC K.O. tournament pits super-powered fighters against each other in a battle to the death. Each combatant can choose a weapon, and the ultimate goal is to defeat Darkseid and stop his plan to rebuild Apokolips. The winner will become all-powerful, with the ability to revive anyone they wish.
The newest issue, created by Scott Snyder, Joshua Williamson, Xermánico, and Javier Fernández, features a shocking moment: Lex Luthor has killed Superman, breaking a long-standing rule in DC Comics that has lasted for 86 years.
Lex Luthor Actually Killed Superman — No, Seriously
This was hinted at by the in the latest DC Comics solicits, by the way.
Has Superman really died before? It’s complicated. While he’s been defeated – famously by Doomsday in The Death of Superman – he’s never permanently stayed dead. Instead, he falls into a coma-like state, allowing him to recover and eventually return, making it seem like a resurrection.
This time, however, he’s truly gone, killed by his oldest and most relentless enemy, Lex Luthor.
As the panels show, the DC K.O. tournament has reached its peak! Only Luthor, Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman were left competing, but eventually, it came down to a final showdown between Luthor and Superman, all while the powerful Omega King Darkseid observed – and secretly aided Superman’s progress throughout the battle.
Darkseid vs. Lex Luthor for Control of the Universe
Darkseid only cares about a direct fight to prove who’s stronger. He ignores both Luthor and Superman, surprisingly praising Superman for enduring his Omega Beam – and unintentionally saving Luthor from it. Then, Darkseid simply states, “I’m waiting,” indicating he wants a full-on confrontation.
It’s clear Luthor and Superman understood the situation very differently. Superman asked Luthor to help defeat Darkseid, but Luthor had other plans. He unexpectedly attacked Superman with a powerful blast from his suit, instantly killing him and winning the tournament.
DC Comics fans are shocked as Lex Luthor challenges Darkseid for control of the universe. This tournament has proven unpredictable, and it’s become clear Superman isn’t guaranteed to win. In a stunning turn of events, Luthor doesn’t just defeat Superman – he kills him, a first in comic book history.
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2026-02-14 00:12