Harley Quinn is competing in DC K.O. because the DC Universe is facing a major crisis. Darkseid has taken over the future, and before he can attack the past, DC’s heroes and villains are battling in a tournament. The goal? To gain the power needed to defeat him. Some of the participants include iconic characters like Superman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, and Zatanna.
When DC Comics announced the 32 fighters in the tournament, a lot of fans questioned why Harley Quinn was included. DC has been heavily promoting Harley lately, so it seemed odd to some that she’d be competing against much more powerful characters. Many worried the competition would be rigged to let her advance unfairly. However, as Harley faces Zatanna, the real reason for her participation in DC K.O. becomes clear.
Harley Quinn was Here to Push Zatanna to Greater Heights
The first issue of DC K.O.: Harley Quinn vs. Zatanna, written by Leah Williams and illustrated by Mirka Andolfo, kicks off the battle between Harley Quinn and Zatanna. Like the other matches in this round, the fight is decided by the first to win two rounds. While Zatanna is glad to be facing someone she knows for a fair fight, Harley doesn’t think magic users make for a fair match. She immediately attacks Zatanna, knocking the wind out of her to prevent her from casting spells, winning the first round. Harley then challenges Zatanna to fight harder.
The second round between Harley and Zatanna starts with Harley using increasingly aggressive attacks, though she notices Zatanna is still hesitant. Zatanna unexpectedly stabs Harley in the leg, and the two then engage in a full-on brawl. Surprisingly, Harley is pleased to see Zatanna finally fighting back. Zatanna wins the second round and they prepare for a final magical showdown. They begin by exchanging spells, quickly reaching a standstill. Harley continues to encourage Zatanna to unleash her full power.
Harley keeps upsetting Zatanna by mentioning John Constantine and her dad, Zatara. Eventually, Zatanna loses her temper and seriously injures Harley. Though shocked by her actions, Zatanna finds Harley strangely at peace. Harley reveals she knew she wasn’t going to win and intentionally pushed Zatanna to embrace a darker side, believing it was necessary for Zatanna to succeed in the tournament. Harley dies, and Zatanna promises to become as cold and determined as needed to win.
Harley Quinn Was Never Meant to Be a Contender, But That’s OK
I was skeptical when I learned Harley Quinn would be competing in DC K.O. It’s not that I dislike the character, but I wondered how she could realistically succeed without some unfair advantages. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Harley is very self-aware in this series. She recognizes she’s in over her head, and instead of focusing on her own struggles, she uses the situation to help someone else reach their full potential.
I’m really loving how this story isn’t about Harley rescuing anyone. She actually shows off how resourceful and strong she is herself! What’s even more interesting is that she recognizes Zatanna’s problem – she’s got the skill to win, but she’s too nice to really fight. So, naturally, Harley does what she does best: she tries to help people, even if her methods are… a little out there. Okay, maybe it was more than a little violent, but she genuinely helped Zatanna unlock something within herself. I think that inner strength is exactly what Zatanna needs to go far in DC K.O.!
Harley Quinn wasn’t expected to go very far in the tournament, and while she had some luck in the beginning, this match showed how tough the competition really was. Her real purpose wasn’t to win, but to support a friend – Zatanna – and help her focus. It was a perfect fit for Harley, and even though she didn’t have a chance of winning herself, she might have been the key to Zatanna’s success and giving the DC Universe the hero it needed.
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2025-12-23 00:46