Absolute Batman # 9 1:25 Nguyen Variant 8/25 CGC 9.8 4679672020

A "1:25 Variant" is an incentive variant cover for a comic book that a retailer can order from the publisher. The "1:25" refers to the ratio of regular copies a store must order to qualify for a single copy of that special cover.

Absolute Batman #9 (released June 11, 2025) marks the beginning of the "Abomination" story arc in DC’s Absolute Universe. Written by Scott Snyder with art by Nick Dragotta, this issue introduces a terrifying new version of Bane and explores a mysterious facility known as Ark M. 

Plot Summary: "Abomination: Part One"

• The Rise of Ark M: The story centers on a new facility called Ark M, intended to rehabilitate the "derelict and despondent" of society but secretly serving as a breeding ground for evil.
• Missing Friends: Bruce Wayne’s friend Waylon Jones (the Absolute version of Killer Croc) has gone missing, with evidence suggesting he was taken deep into the Ark M facility.
• Absolute Bane: A monstrously large and tactically brilliant version of Bane arrives in Gotham. He is depicted as an "old adversary" of Alfred Pennyworth's and is far larger and more imposing than this universe's already massive Batman.
• The Confrontation: Batman infiltrates Ark M only to find Bane waiting for him. The two engage in a brutal, one-sided battle where Bane humbles Batman, showcasing a significant gap in power and preparation.
• Militarized Gotham: Meanwhile, the GCPD begins a controversial partnership with private law enforcement companies to militarize the police force, a move opposed by Martha Wayne and Jim Gordon. 

Creative Team

• Writer: Scott Snyder
• Artist: Nick Dragotta
• Colorist: Frank Martin
• Letterer: Clayton Cowles