James Gunn’s The Suicide Squad is one of the finest DC flicks of recent years. Many entertaining new characters were debuted in this bloody action comedy, with Idris Elba’s Bloodsport standing out as the film’s coolest anti-hero. After a year, Elba wants to reprise the role and square off against Superman. Elba, promoting his new film Beast, said to Variety, “I would certainly like to tell the Superman narrative.” Absolutely not. Bloodsport vs Superman,” he might even say. That must take place.” If you haven’t watched Gunn’s movie, let me fill you in: the dangerous assassin Bloodsport landed in Belle Reve Penitentiary after accidentally shooting Superman with a Kryptonite bullet.
Just hearing that in The Suicide Squad would have been awesome for any DC fan, but the actual scenario unfolding in prison is perfect for a feature film. One reason Bloodsport was entertaining as an antagonist was that he was a multifaceted character. His daddy issues, excessive competition, fatherly themes, and dread of rats all contributed to his overall charisma. Seeing him in his early years would be a fascinating contrast to his maturation as a character in The Suicide Squad. But there’s also the huge Superman component to that story. Fans of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) know that Superman has been missing in action as of late, and they want Henry Cavill back in the role.
Even as recently as last month’s San Diego Comic-Con, actors like Dwayne “Black Adam” Johnson teased their roles as Superman, albeit they never revealed who would actually be wearing the tights. Bloodsport vs. Superman, with the assassin’s one-of-a-kind fighting armour that conceals a wide array of weaponry, would be a close second to Black Adam vs. Superman as the coolest possible fight. After blackmailing Amanda Waller and killing Starro the Conqueror, Bloodsport was last seen riding out into the sunset with his remaining squad mates. Now that he’s no longer a prisoner, Elba and his anti-hero role have limitless potential.
Possible formats for this work include a straightforward prequel or a story that connects Bloodsport’s history and present to better illustrate how his encounter with Superman altered the course of his life. Next year will see the return of Peacemaker, another DCEU figure who was killed off in Bloodsport. Superman, no matter who’s wearing the cape, will be a part of that scheme, thus Bloodsport’s inclusion or absence will be quite intriguing to watch. Whatever the reason, it’s wonderful to hear Elba’s excitement about playing this beloved figure. The Suicide Squad is now available on HBO Max, so you can watch it while you wait to find out if Henry Cavill will reprise his role as Superman or if Bloodsport will have a place in the DCEU.