Ted Kord vs. Prowler: Who Wins the High-Tech Hero Clash?

Comparing Two Underrated but Inventive Crimefighters

This episode of the Dynamic Duel Podcast pits DC’s Ted Kord, the second Blue Beetle, against Marvel’s Prowler in a high-tech duel that fans didn’t know they needed. Hosts Johnny DC and Marvelous Joe break down the origins and abilities of each character, emphasizing their similarities in gadgetry, mobility, and intellect. While Blue Beetle is known for his iconic bug ship and compressed air BB gun, Prowler comes equipped with stealth tech, pneumatic gadgets, and acrobatic prowess. Both heroes have also been revived from death, making for a poetic battle of resilience and reinvention.

Prowler’s Dual Legacy and Versatile Tech

The episode dives into the backstories of both prominent Prowlers: Hobie Brown and Aaron Davis. Hobie, originally a window washer and inventor, became the Prowler using pneumatic tech and a gliding cape, initially as a misguided criminal before reforming. Aaron Davis, from Marvel’s Ultimate Universe, is best known as Miles Morales’ uncle. A master thief, Aaron helped shape Miles’ origin story by unknowingly triggering his transformation into Spider-Man. After various interdimensional twists, Aaron ultimately works alongside heroes to fight villains like Hobgoblin. Whether imagining Hobie or Aaron in the duel, their gear and stealth tactics offer serious competition to Blue Beetle’s arsenal.

Ted Kord: Brains, Brawn, and the Bug

Ted Kord, meanwhile, is presented as one of DC’s most brilliant inventors, having trained to peak human condition after the mystical Scarab refused to work for him. With no superpowers of his own, he compensates using his BB gun, flying bug ship, drones, and wall-climbing gear. His history includes working with the Justice League International and forming a deep friendship with Booster Gold. While he’s died more than once, he always seems to bounce back, often playing the role of mentor to Jaime Reyes, the current Blue Beetle. Ted’s gear versatility and tactical genius make him a strong contender.

The Duel Simulation and Speculation

The hosts run through a hypothetical scenario where Prowler attempts a speed blitz while Blue Beetle counters with a blinding flash and aerial drones. A back-and-forth ensues with smoke bombs, infrared dodges, compressed air strikes, and even a net trap. The debate gets cheeky as Joseph tries to ban the use of the bug ship, while Johnny insists it’s part of the character’s identity. The two argue over fairness while narrating a possible battle outcome—either Prowler pulverizes Beetle with air boots, or Beetle electrocutes Prowler mid-air. It’s chaotic, comedic, and filled with love for both characters.

Who Wins? Stat-Based Results from AJ9K

As always, the winner is determined by the show’s AI, AJ9K, which runs 1,000 Monte Carlo simulations based on detailed stat parameters like range, durability, intelligence, and damage potential. Factoring in the bug ship and Blue Beetle’s superior versatility, Ted Kord wins 65.6% of the time. Prowler puts up a solid fight with 34.4% wins, but ultimately, Ted’s tech, smarts, and experience push him to victory. While Prowler fans may cry foul, the episode emphasizes just how close and fun this tech-heavy battle turned out to be.

Listen to the full episode here: Blue Beetle vs. Prowler.