Saturday, February 23, 2019

Deathstroke vs. Deadpool: CBR Declares a Winner!

Image Source: CBR.com
One of the largest and longest-operating comic book industry media websites has weighed in on the often controversial, and unfortunately ubiquitous, fan debates in all of comic book fandom: Who would win in a fight, Deathstroke or Deadpool? On February 13, 2019, CBR.com, originally known as Comic Book Resources, published an article by Nick Friar, entitled, "Deadpool Vs. Deathstroke: Which Merc Would Win?" which declared that...
As much as Deadpool might be the more popular of the two, this is a battle of skill, not fame. 
Once Deathstroke gets his hands on a mutant inhibitor collar and straps it on Deadpool, it's all a matter of skill and planning—which is where Slade Wilson reigns supreme.
While certain comic book media outlets have chosen a side in this debate before, these operations tend to lean more toward entertainment (i.e. Death Battle!, WatchMojo.com) or fan discussion forums (i.e. Reddit, Quora) than news. It's rare that a comic book news site, such as CBR, takes a stand on such a divisive issue, but since they have, I thought I would summarize the points put forth by CBR's Nick Friar that gave Slade the decided edge over Wade in the Battle of the Wilsons.

Deathstroke vs. Deadpool
Image Source: CBR.com

  • Deadpool gets a point for his insanely unpredictable nature that would most definitely give Slade fits.
  • Deathstroke takes a point for his superior gear. Where Wade Wilson uses normal katanas and standard merc fare, Slade has utilized a Promethium sword, the God Killer sword, and the Ikon Suit, which would make it very difficult for Slade to land much damage on Slade hand-to-hand.
  • The two mercs seem to push when it came to their major victories. Wade was credited for killing the Marvel Universe twice (though admittedly in "What If" style scenarios) getting specific mentions for the Hulk, Wolverine, and Doctor Doom. Slade was recognized for his multiple wins over Batman, Nightwing, the Titans, the Flash, and even Marvel Comics' own X-Men.
  • Deathstroke gets the nod for his emotional stability as he could stay in control of himself whereas Deadpool would be prone to stupid mistakes due to his hyper-emotional nature.
  • While both men have one, Deadpool has an advantage in the healing factor category. But Deathstroke actually takes the physicality point due to his enhanced reflexes, superhuman strength, and near-perfect sword skills all while wielding an indestructible blade.
  • Slade Wilson is one of the greatest tactical minds in all of comics. Deadpool often runs headlong into foolish situations relying too much on his healing factor to save his bacon. So, Deathstroke takes a point for intellect.
  • Deathstroke also wins the point for his determination as he is always laser-focused on his objective, where Deadpool doesn't always have his head in the game.
So, according to industry news giant, CBR, Deathstroke is the victor in the (theoretical) battle versus Deadpool. But, I'm not naive enough to think that this the definitive word on the subject, nor do I believe that this in any way settles anything in the minds of the rabid fans of either character. But I have to admit that it is nice that, in the seemingly Deadpool-crazy world of comic book fandom, CBR showed the OG badass merc some much-deserved love.