The Spectacular Spider-Man #172

In "Savage Showdown," Spider-Man and Puma clash in a brutal desert battle that tests their limits—and their humanity—before a surprising truce forces them to reconsider their paths. Meanwhile, Mary Jane stands firm against Jerome’s advances, delivering a no-nonsense warning that leaves their relationship hanging in the balance. Written by Gerry Conway and brought to life with dynamic art by Sal Buscema (pencils and inks) and vivid colors by Bob Sharen, this 1991 issue captures a raw, high-stakes moment in the web-slinger’s world, with a cover by Sal Buscema that perfectly frames the tension.