WARNING: Contains Spoilers for Batman #159!

Batman’s most iconic villains, and his prominence has only continued to grow thanks to live-action adaptations like the TV series Gotham and the 2022 film The Batman. Now, DC is officially bringing the character back to the forefront of its comic narratives by debuting a new costume for the Riddler, one that drastically changes his character in canon.

The sequel to Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee’s Hush saga continues with the release of its second installment in Batman #159, and to say this issue was wild would be an understatement. In this chapter, fans see Thomas “Hush” Elliot put Batman in the ultimate Catch-22, forcing the Dark Knight to save the Joker’s life.

There is also the bombshell reveal that Jason “Red Hood” Todd, the real Jason and not Clayface impersonating him, is working with Hush. However, what may top both of these moments is a single, full-page featuring the Riddler, who appears with a completely overhauled design and a new role in Batman’s story.

Hush 2 takes place in the present-day mainstream continuity.

HUSH 2 Reinvents The Riddler with a Jaw-Dropping Transformation

Main Cover by Jim Lee, Scott Williams, and Alex Sinclair for Batman #159 (2025)

Batman #159 features the news of the return of Hush and Batman saving the Joker being broken to Batgirl Barbara Gordon and Nightwing. However, the messenger of this news turns out to be none other than The Riddler. Even more surprising is the full-page reveal of Edward Nygma, which shows the character reimagined like never before. Typically, The Riddler is depicted as comparatively lean, with a somewhat ‘nerdy’ vibe. However, the Edward Nygma of Batman #159 is an absolute tank, sporting an uncharacteristically muscled physique as well as a notably more battle-ready costume. This marks a drastic change from his typical character design.

The reveal suggests Nygma has spent some serious time at the gym, a thought that borders on comical but is clearly ed by his gains. His usual quirky three-piece suits are replaced by combat boots, tactical pants, and a bulky green jacket. The jacket features a giant question mark built into the metal fastenings that keep it zipped and secure. Even his signature question mark cane appears upgraded, now solid metal and clearly capable of inflicting damage. It complements the green question mark tattoo surrounding his left eye, completing his intense new look.

Riddler Is Officially a Mental AND Physical Threat, Changing His Role in Canon

Cover B Andy Kubert Variant for Batman #159 (2025)

This new look not only changes The Riddler’s role in the Hush arc but also redefines his place in canon, as this story is part of the present-day mainstream continuity. With Nygma’s tactical, combat-ready appearance, he is now positioned as not only a mental threat but also a physical and gadget-based one, effectively leveling up his character in an unprecedented way. What’s particularly interesting about this reveal is that Nygma offers to help Nightwing, Batgirl, and the rest of the Bat-Family in their fight against Hush. As a result, The Riddler’s new look signals the beginning of his shift into an unlikely ally for Batman and Gotham’s vigilantes.

Batman #159 is available now from DC Comics!