10 Best Obscure Daredevil Villains

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Daredevil comics have long been a top seller in the Marvel universe. With a relatable protagonist, humanistic storylines, and exciting action sequences, it’s no surprise that fans would adore anything starring Matthew Murdock, Daredevil. Over the years, many villains have tangled with the man without fear, some of which are more obscure than others.

Among these unknown villains are multiple antagonists capable of standing toe-to-toe with the man who has become one of Marvel’s greatest fighters. Whether it be cunning, physical prowess, or super-human abilities, the best of the obscure Daredevil villains prove worthy foes deserving of a come-back.

10

Ikari Represents The Anti-Daredevil

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 3) #25 (April 2013)

Undoubtedly, Ikari is one of the most challenging, obscure Daredevil villains. Having undergone a recreation of the event that gave Daredevil his powers, Ikari possesses the same abilities. Ikari is also highly trained in martial arts and close-combat weaponry. This combination already puts him on par with Daredevil, but Ikari also has a distinct advantage. He can see.

During their first encounter, Daredevil becomes overconfident in his additional experience, assuming Ikari is blind. A devastating beating delivered by Ikari teaches Daredevil a harsh lesson about making assumptions. Unfortunately, Ikari didn’t live long enough to develop a larger fan base and has since faded into obscurity. Although the balance he provides makes him a top candidate, Ikari’s popularity compared to other obscure villains holds him back in the rankings.

9

Insomnia Keeps Daredevil Up All Night

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 1) #363 (April 1997)

Insomnia makes her debut in Green Goblin style. She throws quick, witty remarks while causing mayhem and doing whatever she deems necessary to accomplish her goals. Insomnia also has a green glider that resembles Spider-Man’s nemesis. With her flair and gadgets of chaos, it can be easy to forget that she also has extraordinary abilities, such as fast reflexes and incredible eyesight that can make out the smallest of details at long distances.

Her keen sight and lack of empathy make Insomnia a dangerous opponent for Daredevil. She is known for intentionally putting civilians at risk, such as taking hostages. Her usual highly populated targets are posed with extra peril, as is Daredevil when trying to apprehend Insomnia, thanks to her making him account for bystanders.

8

The Jester Poses a Problem Without Powers

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 1) #42 (July 1968)

The original Jester is an obscure Daredevil villain with no superpowers and a tacky origin story. A side character on a low-budget television show, Jonathan Powers grows tired of being the source of comedy. Seeking the limelight, he dons a colorful costume and goes on a crime spree, robbing many well-defended targets. Catching the attention of Daredevil, he wins fame by defeating him in battle and escaping with stolen goods.

Although lacking in distinct advantages, the obscure villain reveals an important fact. Jester’s win over Daredevil proves that superpowers aren’t required to beat the man without fear. The cunning Jester uses ingenuity, swordplay, and a few cool toys to show the world that anyone can be a successful villain. They do say there’s no such thing as bad publicity.

7

Mr. Hyde Used to Beat Down Daredevil Regularly

First Appearance: Journey into Mystery #99 (December 1963)

Mr. Hyde might not be the most obscure character, but it is no longer common knowledge that he used to be a Daredevil villain. For context, the mighty Mr. Hyde is a brilliant scientist who gains transformative powers when ingesting a formula of his own design. The chemical concoction gives him super-human strength and durability to accompany a tremendous growth in size. Abilities that prove more than enough to take on Daredevil.

During their encounters, Mr. Hyde challenged Daredevil primarily because of his stamina and street fighting techniques. His unpredictable behavior also made it difficult for Daredevil to stop Mr. Hyde. After his entry into the Thunderbolts, Mr. Hyde and Daredevil haven’t often encountered each other. As Mr. Hyde poses such a threat, it could be time to bring this obscure villain back into the Daredevil universe.

6

The Exterminator Lives Up to His Name

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 1) #39 (April 1968)

The Exterminator, also known as Death-Stalker, is an interesting Daredevil villain who has faded into obscurity. While it is unknown why he turned to criminal behavior, his past does involve a spoiled youth. Exterminator’s wealthy parents paid for the best education money could buy, which he put to nefarious use. His lack of innate extraordinary powers is made up by his technological genius and strategic talents.

Although often thwarted by Daredevil, this obscure villain has tremendous potential. Exterminator’s meticulous planning, charisma, and vast resources present the possibility of a new Kingpin. The options Exterminator opens for original story arcs alone is enough reason to bring this Daredevil villain out of obscurity. Not to mention the action-filled, Arcade-like situations in which Exterminator would love to place Daredevil.

5

Revenge Seeking Ninja Lady Bullseye Breaks Daredevil

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 2) #111 (September 2008)

Some villains know how to hurt their opponents on multiple levels. For Daredevil, that enemy is Lady Bullseye. She may not have superpowers, but Lady Bullseye’s combat skills, weapons expertise, and level head make her a fierce opponent. She also acts without hesitation and according to preplanned methods. This ruthless combination makes Lady Bullseye one of the deadliest obscure Daredevil villains.

This wielder of death doesn’t just beat up Daredevil physically, but she does that easily. In seeking revenge for Bullseye, Lady Bullseye hurts Daredevil emotionally. Knowing Daredevil cares about the woman known as Tigress, Lady Bullseye ends her life in a brutal and bloody fashion. This villain’s motivation, skills, and inspiring origin story find Lady Bullseye a key place in the rankings.

4

The Gladiator is More Than a Man in a Mask

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 1) #18 (July 1966)

A simple costume and clothing designer, Melvin Potter began as an average man with a dream. It was a dream to defeat superheroes in battle, but a dream, nonetheless. However, it is not his origins that make this obscure villain special. The Gladiator’s importance stems from his journey. Over the years, not only has Potter taken on multiple superpowered heroes like Daredevil, but he has also experienced many tribulations involving outstanding character development.

Despite not having powers, this obscure villain holds his own against any opponent he faces. The Gladiator’s determination and human qualities make him endearing to fans. Qualities reveal themselves in full when other villains put him through unnecessary torment and mental anguish. Readers’ ability to connect with The Gladiator makes him a prime candidate for another entertaining run against Daredevil.

3

The Purple Man Easily Manipulates People

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 1) #4 (July 1964)

Killgrave, The Purple Man, is one of Daredevil’s oldest obscure villains. The Purple Man can control people in his vicinity by producing certain chemicals with his body. His ability to easily manipulate those around him poses a grave threat to Daredevil. The Purple Man has no issue putting others in danger and, like Insomnia, enjoys targeting populated areas to gain an advantage.

Daredevil only resists The Purple Man’s abilities because they rely on all perceptions, including sight. However, this immunity does Daredevil little good when his enemy can turn innocent civilians into weapons. Among the obscure Daredevil villains, The Purple Man would have the best chance at presenting a global threat scenario. His manipulation powers could grant him access to any institution he desires, making for a suspenseful story.

2

Mister Fear Knows How to Bring The Masses to Their Knees

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 1) #6 (February 1965)

While there have been multiple incarnations of Mister Fear, each came with similar abilities and personality traits. Each one also bested Daredevil at least once. Mister Fear’s primary weapon is a gas that instills fear and hallucinations. He is also intelligent, sadistic, and maniacal in each one of his variations. A combination that proves troublesome for Daredevil time and again.

No matter the plot or which version of Mister Fear is involved, Daredevil comics involving the obscure villain are full of mystery, suspense, drama, and action. Daredevil facing deep, personal fears usually goes over well with fans. Many appreciate the attention to detail concerning the relatable, human elements within the Daredevil stories. Aspects that Mister Fear brings in spades.

1

Coyote Did What No Other Daredevil Villain Could

First Appearance: Daredevil (Vol. 3) #19 (October 2012)

Once a mere smuggler, Coyote’s powers were forced upon him by a villainous organization seeking to take down Daredevil. Their plan to recreate the powers of a villain called Spot worked a little too well. Coyote is given the ability to teleport and a fearsome new look. He also acquires devices using teleportation technology capable of separating heads from bodies. A feat he accomplishes against Daredevil.

Not only does he temporarily remove Daredevil’s head, causing mental trauma, but Coyote also escapes, leaving Daredevil in quite a predicament. Although since becoming obscure, Coyote’s ability to teleport and fearsome nature make him an excellent Daredevil villain. Not many know of Coyote due to his minimal number of appearances. Coyote’s obscurity and vast potential as a Daredevil villain put him at the top of the rankings.

“}]] Daredevil has tangled with many villains, some having faded into obscurity. The best of these villains prove worthy foes deserving of a come-back.  Read More