James Gunn openly confirmed that Green Lantern would overwhelmingly defeat Peacemaker if the two ever clashed. With the release of Peacemaker season 2 on August 21, 2025, which introduces Nathan Fillion’s portrayal of Guy Gardner alongside characters like Hawkgirl and Maxwell Lord, the spotlight on the rivalry between Peacemaker and Green Lantern has intensified. Gunn’s candid remarks to HBO Max on August 22, 2025, underline the vast difference in their abilities and hint at the high-energy tension fans can expect in the new season.
Gunn stated,
I mean, Peacemaker would get the shit beat out of him. I mean, he’s—Green Lantern’s…Green Lantern could fight Superman. Green Lantern’s powerful. He can create anything.
—James Gunn, Director
Comparing Abilities: Green Lantern’s Cosmic Might Versus Peacemaker’s Human Prowess
Green Lantern and Peacemaker represent two fundamentally different types of power. Guy Gardner, as Green Lantern, wields a power ring capable of manifesting anything his will envisions, ranging from energy constructs and weapons to protective armor. This ring generates an impenetrable force field, grants the ability to fly, and even allows survival in outer space. It can discharge powerful electromagnetic beams and serves as a communication tool among alien species. Nevertheless, the ring’s effectiveness depends on the wearer’s will and requires periodic recharging.
In contrast, Peacemaker operates at peak human level, possessing extraordinary physical strength, speed, and agility. His combat expertise spans multiple martial arts and weapon proficiencies, making him a versatile and tactical fighter. Known for his ruthless determination fueled by an obsession with peace, Peacemaker constantly pushes beyond normal limits. However, despite his skills and endurance, he remains vulnerable to injuries and psychological struggles inherent to human limitations.
The cosmic scope of Green Lantern’s powers far exceeds Peacemaker’s human capabilities, setting the stage for a clear advantage in any direct conflict. As Nathan Fillion, portraying Guy Gardner, noted about their dynamic,
Yeah, it’s clear from their relationship that the two of them do not get along. Not a fan of each other… it’s just a powder keg when they get together.
—Nathan Fillion, Actor
This volatile mix of Green Lantern’s overwhelming energy manipulation and Peacemaker’s unpredictable ferocity ensures any confrontation will be charged with intense personality clashes beyond sheer combat.
Potential for Conflict: Will Season 2 Feature a Peacemaker and Green Lantern Showdown?
Fans eager to witness a full-scale battle between Peacemaker and Green Lantern may need to temper expectations. Rather than a straightforward fight sequence, the upcoming episodes seem poised to explore their rivalry through witty banter, sarcasm, and ego-driven conflicts. Nathan Fillion elaborated on their competitive but complicated relationship, saying,
I wouldn’t call them both A-listers by any means, but I think they both consider themselves — maybe in their hearts — they should be A-listers. I think they have a lot to prove. I think they’ve got chips on their shoulders.
—Nathan Fillion, Actor
The season 2 trailers emphasize Guy Gardner’s mockery of Peacemaker’s attempts to join the Justice Gang, the show’s retconned version of the Justice League. Their interactions appear more focused on comical disputes and clashing egos rather than an all-out war. This setup allows ongoing tension and occasional scuffles without committing to a prolonged fight, providing viewers with an entertaining blend of character-driven conflict and action.
This dynamic promises a more nuanced exploration of rivalry, mixing humor and personality tension with the occasional physical altercation, enhancing the storytelling beyond conventional combat scenes.
The Significance of Their Rivalry and What to Expect Next
The contrast between Peacemaker’s peak human resilience and Green Lantern’s cosmic power speaks to a classic battle of limits versus limitless potential. James Gunn’s acknowledgment of Green Lantern’s superior strength confirms this disparity but also leaves room for strategic moments where Peacemaker’s cunning and agility shine. The rivalry’s foundation in strong, clashing personalities adds layers of complexity, making their interactions a highlight of the new season.
As the Justice Gang forms the shared universe for these characters, their ongoing tension will likely fuel storylines filled with sarcasm, ego clashes, and unpredictable moments. Rather than focusing solely on physical dominance, the show is poised to emphasize character-driven drama and chaotic chemistry, delivering a compelling narrative thread through season 2.
With both Peacemaker seasons currently available on HBO Max, viewers can anticipate a richly textured rivalry unfolding amid explosive action and sharp humor, set against the backdrop of a unique superhero ensemble.
