DC K.O. #3: Knightfight | REVIEW
Batman may not be competing in the DC K.O. tournament itself, but Knightfight seemingly continues to put Bruce through a very rough form of punishment. We have seen how each issue strips away another layer and while the series hasn’t completely won me over, this third chapter does a better job of pulling me in.
This issue briefly follows up on the path set up for Jason last month before shifting focus.
Bruce is quickly reminded that this experience isn’t about exploring alternate worlds for curiosity’s sake. It’s a controlled test, orchestrated by the Heart of Apokolips and the cruelty here feels calculated rather than chaotic. The threat isn’t loud, but it is persistent.
What stands out most is how the story centers Bruce instead of Batman. Up to now, he’s been reacting to a series of constructed futures built around his potential successors. Even knowing these realities aren’t real, Bruce can’t ignore how believable they are. Each one reflects a different outcome for the legacy he’s created and how that burden shapes his sons in very different ways. That psychological pressure lands harder than any physical threat.
The issue pivots into a world where Tim Drake has fully grown into the role of Batman, and it’s one of the stronger concepts the series has used so far. This Gotham is quieter and more controlled, and the opening detective sequence sells that immediately. It’s efficient, confident, and restrained.
Dan Mora’s art remains consistently strong without relying on splashy moments. The designs are clean, the environments feel functional, and the storytelling never gets cluttered. That restraint works in the book’s favor and keeps the focus on the idea rather than the spectacle.
By the end, the story smartly shifts away from familiar confrontations and sets up a challenge Bruce can’t simply fight his way through. The pacing is still quick, and the short page count is noticeable, but the issue does enough to justify sticking around for what comes next.
I’m not fully sold yet, but the intrigue is growing… And for a series this short, that matters.
