Top 10 Villain Vs Villain TV Scenes
Welcome to WatchMojo and today we’re counting down our picks for the most brutal confrontations between bad guys on television. Beware of spoilers!
#10: Lorne Malvo[a] vs. Lester Nygaard
“Fargo” (2014-)
Inspired by the Coen brothers’ award-winning 1996 film, this dark anthology series has been lauded for its exemplary storytelling. The first season of “Fargo” was epic, concluding with its fair share of violence and poetic justice. It revolves around a manipulative hitman named Malvo and an insurance salesman named Lester, both of whom commit heinous acts throughout the series. Their bloody trail is riveting all season long, and culminates in a brutal showdown in Lester’s home. Despite not matching Malvo’s toughness, Lester outsmarts him, finally becoming the predator he’s probably always wanted to be. We’ll certainly never look at a bear trap the same way again.
#9: Lucifer vs. Cain
“Lucifer” (2016-21)
Chloe is presumably Lucifer Morningstar’s greatest weakness. And his foe, Cain, thought he could use her as his secret weapon, setting the stage for one of the series’ most memorable fights. In the supernatural cop drama, the charismatic devil walks among mortals in Los Angeles and works as a police consultant. Initially, Cain seeks Lucifer’s help to break free from the curse of immortality. But no longer desiring death, Cain plots to kill Lucifer. Of course, his plan backfires and he finds himself in one-on-one combat with the devil. Their confrontation is thrilling, even though Cain never really stood a chance. Ultimately, Lucifer finishes him off — but not without revealing his real face in the process.
#8: Fish Mooney vs. The Penguin
“Gotham” (2014-19)
Fox’s “Gotham” is a show teeming with unsavory characters, and Fish Mooney and Oswald Cobblepot are among the most captivating. Their constant rivalry is a thrilling highlight. The villain-packed prequel to Batman’s story revolves around the city’s infamous rogues, sometimes making us cheer and even care for them. Case in point — the finale of the first season, when different criminal factions collide, with Mooney and Cobblepot in the thick of the chaos. Their brutal rooftop battle is intense, leaving viewers on edge about the outcome. The showdown ends with Cobblepot pushing Mooney off a rooftop to the watery depths below. Looks like this time, the penguin got the fish.
#7: Spike vs. Angel
“Angel” (1999-2004)
“Buffy” fans know Spike and Angel’s relationship has gone through it all, from mentor and protégé to rivals and even uneasy allies. So it’s no wonder they finally unleash it all in an epic smackdown. This “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” spin-off follows the titular character’s quest for redemption as he helps those with supernatural problems. In season five, Angel and Spike’s relationship and confusion over a prophecy explode into an aggressive and emotionally charged battle in a deserted opera house. Clashing with fists, stakes, and even crosses, their fight is truly incredible, ending with Spike emerging victorious over Angel.
#6: Hannibal vs. Tobias
“Hannibal” (2013-15)
The manipulative yet enchanting Hannibal isn’t the only dark persona lurking in this chilling series. In the episode “Fromage” we meet Tobias Budge — a creepy acquaintance of Dr. Lecter’s patient, desperate to impress him. It may come as no surprise that the relationship between the two killers turns deadly. After Hannibal kills his patient Franklyn in Tobias’ presence, a raw and brutal dance breaks out in his office. At first, Tobias believes he has the upper hand, not knowing that Hannibal is simply toying with him. This expertly choreographed fight concludes with Hannibal defeating Tobias, proving once again that he is not to be underestimated.
#5: Punisher vs. Kingpin
“Daredevil” (2015-18)
A conversation between a walking arsenal and a violent, ruthless businessman is bound to escalate quickly. While not as spectacular as other “Daredevil” fight scenes, the clash between Punisher and Kingpin is raw and powerful. The two face off in impromptu hand-to-hand combat. Kingpin lets Castle make the first move before landing his own hefty blows. Had Frank Castle not been bound and beaten, their fight might’ve been tougher. Or maybe not! Sure, Frank took down a bunch of goons, but Fisk’s size and heavy punches might’ve made even a fresh Castle sweat. Jon Bernthal and Vincent D'Onofrio bring all the heat that makes the scene a standout “Daredevil” moment.
#4: Homelander vs. Soldier Boy
“The Boys” (2019-)
Homelander may be the most powerful being in the universe, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be challenged. His thrilling brawl with Soldier Boy and Butcher proves that he isn’t untouchable, although he still emerges from the fight. In the entertaining battle between these Supes, Soldier Boy is outmatched, pinned to the wall by Homelander. Butcher steps in to give Homelander a tough challenge, especially with his temporary powers. Nothing beats seeing the egotistical Homelander being punched in the face and nearly stripped of his power. Stormfront is another formidable supervillain capable of taking on Homelander, especially since his beam has little effect on her.
#3: Nola vs. Clay Burton
“Banshee” (2013-16)
This high-octane crime series is filled with intriguing characters, meaning memorable fight scenes are bound to happen. The fiercely loyal assassin Nola Longshadow is in search of vengeance. Her quest leads her to a face-off with the local kingpin Proctor’s henchman, Clay Burton. A thrown tomahawk ignites a visceral, beautifully choreographed fight. The camera following the characters as they tussle in the backseat of a car is a particular standout. The epic brawl is filled with tenacity, emotion, and brutality. By the end, it’s clear who the superior combatant is, but the confrontation is gripping throughout.
#2: Khal Drogo[b] vs. Mago
“Game of Thrones” (2011-19)
Watching two formidable warriors fight is always exhilarating, and “Game of Thrones” is no stranger to such spectacles. One unforgettable fight sequence is the duel between Khal Drogo and his raider Mago. Though he died too soon, Daenerys’ Dothraki[c] husband was a complicated and fierce character. His season one battle with Mago may be the beginning of his end, but he dominates the fight and shows his dedication to his wife and unborn child. The grueling brawl sees Khal Drogo dodge Mago’s vicious attacks without weapons, cursing him before ending the fight in a decisive manner.
#1: Negan[d] vs. Simon
“The Walking Dead” (2010-22)
Simon served as Negan’s right-hand man for a while, until he decided it was time to make a move against his master. These two gave us quite a show as they fought for dominance. Simon, always the schemer, aimed to take over the Saviours by eliminating Negan. But boy, did he learn the hard way not to bite the hand that feeds you. The Sanctuary became a battleground for these awful antagonists to unleash their fury, with Negan finally beating Simon. Surprisingly, many viewers found themselves rooting for the “lesser evil” in Negan. Similarly intense was the fight between Merle and The Governor, with fans knowing only one would survive.
Which villain fight had you on the edge of your seat? Let us know in the comment section.