Justice League’s underrated hero is much more powerful than he seems

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The Justice League brings together the most iconic, powerful and popular superheroes in the DC Universe, and fans know that to be part of this select group of Earth’s protectors, members need to be prepared to work alongside heavyweights like Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman. Sometimes, the group recruits great potential and lesser-known names who end up being underestimated.

This is the case of powerhouses like Nuclear and Vixen, who throughout their careers have proven to be up to the job. And it’s also what happened to a hero much stronger than anyone imagines: Steel. This was proven in the limited series JLA: Act of Godlaunched between 2000 and 2001.

The plot turns the DC Universe into chaos after a phenomenon called Black Light steals the abilities of all heroes with biological and mystical powers. The situation forces the technology-based heroes to fight, as they are the only ones who are not affected and maintain their capabilities.

When John Henry Irons appears on the scene to confront the Toyman, a reporter says, “It’s the cybernetic hero known as Steel – now perhaps the most powerful being on Earth!” — and that makes perfect sense, especially in a scenario without Superman and other great DC heroes.

Created by Louise Simonson and Jon Bogdanove, Steel debuted in The Adventures of Superman #500from 1993, as part of the huge plot connected to Death of SupermanHaving faced some of DC Comics’ most dangerous villains, such as Queen Bee, General, Lex Luthor and others, John Henry Irons has proven time and time again that his intellect is as powerful as his armor — after all, his costume was his own creation.

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Anyone that Clark Kent considers to be on an equivalent level is worthy of respect, even if they are not a full member of the Justice League. And Steel undoubtedly fits that definition.