Warning: Spoilers for Action Comics #1079

For decades, DC fans have wrestled with whether Superman in a fight. Their respective superhuman abilities elevate them both to god-tier status, yet there still isn't definitive proof that Shazam is strong enough to overpower Superman if they were to fight at maximum strength. Now, Shazam is finally ready to put his powers to the test against a rampaging Kryptonian.

In a preview for Action Comics #1079 by Mark Waid, Clayton Henry, Michael Shelfer, Matt Herms, and Dave Sharpe, the weekly "Phantoms" story reaches a shocking climax as the prisoners of the Phantom Zone are unleashed upon Earth. These rogue Kryptonians are now fueled by a yellow sun, elevating them to Superman's level of power as they cause wanton destruction across the planet.

With Superman out of commission for the time being, other superheroes step up to defend the Earth in his stead, including Superboy and the rest of Superman's family. Shazam eventually s the fight, and he just might stand a chance against a Kryptonian.

Shazam Is Ready to Settle Whether He's Stronger Than Kryptonians

Shazam's Superman-Level Strength Gets Put to the Ultimate Test

Shazam, presently hip in the Justice League alongside the likes of Superman. Still, although he's technically on par with the Man of Steel, the Captain has yet to officially cement himself as Superman's true superior.

Action Comics #1079 looks to change that, presenting the Captain with an opportunity to face a Kryptonian in a no-holds-barred brawl. When the Captain arrives on the scene, the Kryptonian prisoner appears to have already struck down Blue Beetle and Hawkman in his conquest. Then, upon noticing the arrival of Earth's Mightiest Mortal, he says, "What sort of death wish do you have?" Clearly, this Kryptonian doesn't realize that the Captain can stand up to him and potentially even defeat him. After all, Shazam has proven he can put up a fight against Kryptonians in his past bouts against Superman.

Shazam vs. Superman: Who Would Really Win in a Fight?

Shazam's Next Battle Will Determine If He Can Defeat Superman

exploit a critical Kryptonian weakness and gain an advantage. Ultimately, though, these superheroes can never fully duke it out - barring mind control, manipulation, and alternate universe scenarios - because they're on the same side. Here, the Captain can fight a full-powered Kryptonian without holding back. Shazam's ultimate Kryptonian battle will settle once and for all whether he has what it takes to beat Superman.

Action Comics #1079 is available December 11th, 2024 from DC Comics.