It’s a question that has coaxed the clashing of fanboys and comic nerds for generations. Who is the single greatest superhero of all time? I sit here before you today to give what I believe to be the single definitive answer to this supposed conclusion’s enigma. Batman is, and will always be, the greatest superhero of all time.

Let’s begin with a healthy dose of an origin story. We’ve all heard it a million times. Bruce Wayne was the son of two of Gotham city’s wealthiest individuals, Thomas and Martha Wayne. After an unfortunate back alley killing one tragic night, young Bruce was left orphaned to his butler Alfred. Many years later, with the intentions of cleaning up the human filth that pollutes his beloved city, Bruce would create his secret alter ego, “Batman.” A crime fighting vigilante who preys on his victims fears and weaknesses to overcome any obstacle.

Now let’s move on to the facts of Batman’s talents. Due to the death of his guardians, Bruce inherited the millions of dollars that his parents possessed, along with Wayne family corporation. Thanks to years of disciplined training and world traveling, Batman has mastered nearly every known form of martial arts and fighting styles, along with training his body to the peak form of physical fitness. He is also an extremely intelligent man whose knowledge has led to his nickname, “The World’s Greatest Detective.” He can hit harder, run faster, and outsmart any man or villain that he comes into contact with.

Being the bright young philanthropist that he is, Batman has also made available a diverse and advanced set of gadgets and vehicles that he uses to aid himself during his evil fighting exploits. Batarangs can disarm and knock thugs unconscious, smoke pellets help the Dark Knight escape from hostile gunfire, and the Batmobile transports the hidden vigilante to and from crime scenes.

But these facts are widely known. How can we tell for certain, that in the realm of superheroes, Batman would rule them all? Well, let’s look at some of the Dark Knight’s more relevant fights. Take for example, the instances in which the caped crusader clashed with some of the members of the Justice League. Namely, the times which a fight was instigated between Batman and Superman. As of right now, the two heros have battle on two occasions. One of which took place during the events of, “The Dark Knight Returns” arguably the greatest Batman trade paperback ever created, while the other occurred during the storyline of, “Hush” another critically acclaimed Batman graphic novel. During both fights, Batman demonstrates his ability to outsmart and out strategies even the supposed world’s most powerful superhero. For both fights, the Caped Crusader used his knowledge of his opponent and his environment to fell the mighty Superman. This marks two of the only times that a mere human mortal with no special powers has defeated the most powerful comic book character created.

Batman is the only superhero ever created who can use his strength, intelligence, speed and gadgets, to defeat any obstacle or opponent that stands in his way.