In a groundbreaking narrative twist, DC Comics reignites an old rivalry as Superman confronts a formidable foe he once claimed to fear above all others. Two decades after his admission, the storyline showcases a thrilling battle that arises from the superpower that instilled this fear in him.
Mark Waid’s ambitious crossover event, titled “We Are Yesterday,” is currently unfolding, with Part 2 set to launch on April 23, 2025 in Justice League Unlimited #6, illustrated by Travis Moore. This crossover weaves through both the Justice League Unlimited and Batman/Superman: World’s Finest series, as the notorious Legion of Doom seeks to invade and obliterate the Earth’s heroes.
Leading this charge is Gorilla Grodd, the telepathic adversary of The Flash, who has harnessed a sinister new power by traveling back in time to gather some of the deadliest villains. The plot thickens as Grodd now possesses the abilities of the one hero even Superman dreads: Martian Manhunter.
Confronting Martian Manhunter’s Powers: A New Challenge for Superman
Originating in JLA #86 (2003) by Joe Kelly and Doug Mahnke
In a memorable episode from Joe Kelly’s JLA #86 (2003), the Justice League is ambushed by Martian Manhunter’s dark alter ego, Fernus. During deliberations on how to handle the rogue member of their team, Superman made a striking declaration, stating, “I can count on one hand the number of beings in the known universe I would be afraid to face in open combat. J’onn J’onzz is at the top of that list; he is the most powerful being on the face of the Earth.”
Fast forward to the present, where following the impactful event of Absolute Power, Martian Manhunter’s powers have been significantly reduced, leaving him without both telepathic and ocular abilities. This power shift is a familiar narrative for several DC characters, where abilities often transfer to others. The latest preview for Justice League Unlimited #6 reveals a shocking twist: Gorilla Grodd has claimed the powers of Martian Manhunter.
According to Grodd’s narration, he perceived a telepathic cry resonating through the ether—a disembodied force in search of a host. Utilizing his telepathic skills, he attracted this energy, thereby inheriting Martian Manhunter’s formidable powers. As the We Are Yesterday crossover builds towards an inevitable clash between the Justice League and the Legion of Doom, Superman is about to confront the powers he has feared most.
Could Superman Acquire the One Superpower He Fears? A Possible Body Swap
Variant Cover B by Lee Bermejo for Justice League Unlimited #6 (2025)
In an intriguing development, Superman might find himself in possession of Martian Manhunter’s powers very soon. Mark Waid disclosed in an interview with AIPT that a body swap occurs between Superman and Grodd. This unexpected twist implies that Grodd will harness Superman’s capabilities, while Clark will gain access to Grodd’s abilities, including the stolen powers of Martian Manhunter. It’s clear that tumultuous events lie ahead for Superman and the broader Justice League.
Justice League Unlimited #6 will be available on April 23, 2025, from DC Comics!