The DC Universe is practically overflowing with strong bromances, from Batman and Superman, Green Lantern and The Flash, to Robin and Superboy. However, not all bromances result in uplifting characteristics for the pair. One sparkling example is the dysfunctional friendship between Atom Smasher and Black Adam. But just how much do you know about Atom Smasher and this friendship?
Albert Rothstein (alternatively known as Nuklon and Atom Smasher) was created by Roy Thomas and Jerry Ordway. Albert first appeared as Nuklon in All-Star Squadron #25 in 1983 and as Atom Smasher in JSA Secret Files and Origins #1 in 1999. Despite being the godson of a Golden Age Atom, Al Scott, he acquired his metahuman powers from his grandfather – the supervillain Cyclotron. Not only does he have increased strength, stamina, speed, and durability, but he also has control over his molecular structure. When Albert's mother was murdered by Kobra, Albert was consumed by vengeance. Eventually, he went back in time and replaced his mother with the villain Extant, succeeding in saving his mother but becoming a murderer.
When Captain Marvel's ex-rival Black Adam joins the JSA, what initially starts out as rivalry quickly becomes a kinship. Especially when Adam learns of Albert's actions towards Kobra and how he saved his mother. Through discussions, the pair become frustrated with the JSA's moral boundaries and when Kobra is released from prison, they quit. After making a deal, the duo agree to settle each other’s personal scores. Adam kills Kobra for Albert, and Albert kills the dictatorial president of Khanday (Adam's home country) for Adam. Albert is later put on trial for his actions in Khandav and pleads guilty on all accounts.
While imprisoned, Albert is approached by Amanda Waller to join the Suicide Squad. In 52, under Waller's orders, Albert it told to fight Adam and unknowingly push his family to overreact. What follows is the downfall of the whole Black Marvel family, and a murderous rampage of Adam appropriately dubbed World War II. Adam is later stripped of his powers by Captain Marvel and nearly dies. Despite having sided with the JSA, Albert saves Adam and keeps him hidden. Talk about the ultimate bromance.