Batman #490 1993

Batman #490, published by DC in March 1993, serves as a significant prelude to the iconic "Knightfall" storyline. In "Who Riddled the Riddler?", an ailing Batman faces the Riddler, who has been empowered with Bane's Venom. Bane orchestrates this encounter to test Batman's capabilities. Batman successfully thwarts the Riddler's plan to release toxins into Gotham Bay but struggles against the villain's enhanced strength. The issue also features Jean-Paul Valley briefly operating as Batman before Bruce Wayne dismisses him.