Deadpool vs. The Punisher #1 (2017), the central conflict begins when the Punisher targets a major criminal money launderer known as The Bank, who happens to be one of Deadpool's few genuine friends and his long-time financial advisor. Deadpool, loyal to his friend, decides to protect him, putting him on a collision course with Frank Castle.
- The Hunt for The Bank: The issue opens with the Punisher (Frank Castle) ruthlessly taking down various criminal operations that lead back to a central figure known only as "The Bank" (Simon Noonan Banks). The Bank is a high-level money launderer with ties to crime globally.
- Deadpool's Connection: Simultaneously, the comic establishes the personal connection between Deadpool (Wade Wilson) and The Bank, portraying him as a supportive, almost fatherly, figure in Wade's life, and one he is deeply loyal to.
- Collision Course: When the Punisher's crusade inevitably brings him to The Bank, Deadpool stands in his way, determined to protect his friend. This disagreement over how to handle the criminal sets the stage for a brutal conflict.
- The Fight: The issue is primarily a setup for the ensuing multi-issue brawl. The first physical confrontation is violent, with the Punisher initially gaining the upper hand. The Punisher manages to shoot Deadpool through the forehead, appearing to win the first "round" of their fight.
- Stakes Raised: The conflict quickly becomes more personal and messy when an explosion, seemingly orchestrated by the Punisher, claims the lives of The Bank's wife and son (though their apparent deaths are a key plot point). This raises the stakes and fuels Deadpool's desire for revenge, ensuring the fight continues beyond a simple mercenary job.
The issue ends with the score apparently in the Punisher's favor, but with the clear implication that their battle is far from over and the plot will delve into who is truly pulling the strings behind the scenes.