Superman #239

In a bold twist of myth and modernity, Hercules is pulled from ancient times into the 20th century by Lex Luthor’s time-machine, sent to confront Superman. Though initially used as a weapon, Hercules quickly sees through Luthor’s scheme, teaming up with Superman to thwart the villain’s plans. After proving his strength and honor in the present, he finds himself drawn to Lois Lane—captivated not just by her courage, but by the world she represents.

In "Titano the Super-Ape!", Lois Lane forms a bond with a clever chimpanzee named Toto just before he's launched into space. When a cosmic collision of a uranium meteorite and a kryptonite one transforms Toto into the colossal Titano—radiating deadly kryptonite beams—Lois must find a way to save him from a military execution. With Superman's help, she devises a plan to shield Titano from his own destructive power and send him back in time, before he ever became a threat.

In this classic 1971 clash, Lex Luthor, freshly escaped from custody, dares Superman to a no-powers showdown on a desolate, desert-like world. The two face off in a brutal, bare-knuckle brawl, but when Luthor’s hidden weapons betray the rules of their fight, the stakes escalate in a way neither expected.

In "Part II: The Super-Duel!", Superman faces a dire test of endurance on a desolate planet, where Lex Luthor unexpectedly steps into the role of savior by reviving ancient technology to ease a desperate water crisis. As the battle for survival intensifies, Superman confronts Luthor not just in physical combat, but in a clash of ideals—heroism versus manipulation—before restoring order and securing the planet’s future.