The titanic battles between Godzilla and King Kong have long been the stuff of cinematic legend, captivating audiences with their epic scale and ferocious intensity since they traded jabs in 1962’s King Kong vs. Godzilla. Ironically, even though King Kong won that first fight, it was Godzilla who went on to fight other kaijus, from the high-flying antics of Godzilla vs. Megalon (1973) to the dramatic depths of Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (1995). Each encounter has contributed to the rich tapestry of kaiju lore, but everyone, including the Japanese owners of Godzilla, Toho, was keen on a rematch between the two original cinematic titans, and that only happened with Hollywood’s Godzilla vs. Kong (2021).
With the expansion of the newly minted MonsterVerse, both these legendary beasts were thrust into modern times, with 2014’s Godzilla reboot reintroducing the king of the monsters to a new generation. The film’s portrayal of Godzilla’s battle against the MUTOs struck a chord with audiences, blending spectacle with a deep reverence for the creature’s cinematic heritage. Similarly, 2017’s Kong: Skull Island showcased King Kong in a thrilling light, pitting him against the deadly Skullcrawler in a fight that underscored his might and ingenuity.
The culmination of these storied rivalries in Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) not only served as a box office triumph, but also as a narrative zenith within the MonsterVerse, offering fans the showdown of the century. Yet, even as we relish in these past glories, the anticipation builds for Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, promising to usher in a new era of titan battles that will surely redefine our expectations once again, and prove that some legends never die – they only evolve.
Here are our favourite kaiju battles featuring our two legendary cinematic titans.
Godzilla vs Megalon
Movie: Godzilla vs. Megalon, 1973
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 6/10
In Godzilla films, the monster brawls have always been a spectacle, but the battle royale in Godzilla vs. Megalon (1973) stands out for its sheer, unadulterated fun. Prior to this cinematic outing, fans had witnessed multi-monster clashes – like the epic 1968 movie Destroy All Monsters – but none quite matched the two-on-two mayhem that unfolds here. This film elevates the Godzilla universe’s penchant for the absurd, culminating in a showdown that’s delightfully over-the-top.
The climax of the movie sees Godzilla teaming up with Jet Jaguar, a shape-shifting robot, to take on Gigan (returning from a previous instalment) and the debutant Megalon. The battle peaks with Jet Jaguar restraining Megalon, setting the stage for Godzilla to unleash his legendary flying kick not once, but twice. The triumph of our heroes is celebrated with what might be the most awkward yet heartwarming handshake in cinematic history.
Godzilla vs Destoroyah
Movie: Godzilla vs. Destoroyah, 1995
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 7/10
Godzilla vs. Destoroyah distinguishes itself as one of the Godzilla franchise’s most emotionally charged and dramatic chapters, marking a poignant close to the Heisei era. The film pits Godzilla against the formidable Destoroyah, a monstrous entity birthed from the destructive Oxygen Destroyer that killed the original Godzilla in 1954. This showdown escalates into a deeply personal battle, with Destoroyah proving to be one of Godzilla’s toughest adversaries by not only physically overpowering Godzilla and Godzilla Junior, but also striking at Godzilla’s heart by mercilessly killing his offspring.
The climax of their epic confrontation is a spectacle of desperation and loss, as Godzilla, on the verge of a nuclear meltdown, and his allies make a final stand against Destoroyah. Despite Godzilla’s impending doom, it’s the combined forces of Godzilla’s wrath and human intervention that ultimately bring down Destoroyah, with the villain meeting its end amidst the superheated chaos wrought by Godzilla’s meltdown. This battle not only delivers unforgettable action but also a tragic farewell to a legendary era of the Godzilla saga.
Godzilla vs Zilla
Movie: Godzilla: Final Wars, 2004
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 5/10
The 1998 attempt to reinvent the Godzilla franchise for American audiences, often cited as a misstep, strayed significantly from the essence of Godzilla, transforming the iconic, imposing figure into something more akin to a nimble, chicken-legged dinosaur that seemed more inclined to flee than fight. Coupled with the film’s attempts at humour, an overly long duration, and a lacklustre performance by Matthew Broderick, it’s clear why this iteration failed to resonate with kaiju enthusiasts, earning a dubious spot within the franchise’s lore.
In response to this Americanised portrayal, Japan ramped up its own production of Godzilla films, possibly to reclaim the monster’s storied legacy. Godzilla: Final Wars, released to mark the franchise’s 50th anniversary, served as a redemption of sorts. This film featured Godzilla at his most formidable, effortlessly defeating a roster of previous adversaries, including a pointed jab at the 1998 American Godzilla, now derogatorily renamed ‘Zilla’. The swift and decisive victory over ‘Zilla’ not only provided comic relief, but also acted as Japan’s retort to the American interpretation.
King Kong vs V-Rex
Movie: King Kong, 2005
Who Won: King Kong
Epicness: 9/10
Peter Jackson’s 2005 rendition of King Kong elevated the iconic ape to new heights of cinematic glory, especially in a scene that has become legendary among fans: the battle against the Vastatosaurus Rexes. In this unforgettable sequence, Kong doesn’t just face a single adversary but three, each reminiscent of the terrifying Tyrannosaurus Rex. What makes this battle stand out in King Kong‘s filmography is not just the number of opponents, but how Kong triumphs with unmatched ferocity and protectiveness over Ann (Naomi Watts). Demonstrating incredible strength and resilience, Kong dispatches his foes using the environment to his advantage – crushing one’s skull with a boulder, another against a rock face, and employing brutal tactics to overcome the last. This moment cements Kong’s status as an unparalleled force of nature, suggesting that if three V-Rexes can’t stop him, nothing can.
Godzilla vs. MUTOs
Movie: Godzilla, 2014
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 7/10
The American MonsterVerse, while distinct from the original Japanese films, has significantly amplified Godzilla’s fame in the United States. One standout moment that captures this new wave of popularity is Godzilla’s battle against the MUTOs (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organisms) in the 2014 Godzilla film. This encounter holds a special place in the hearts of many fans, including those who experienced Godzilla’s cinematic might for the first time in a theatre.
The film introduces the MUTOs – giant parasitic Titans that present a unique challenge to Godzilla. Their initial skirmishes showcase a dynamic display of power and strategy, emphasising the MUTOs’ fierce protectiveness over their nest. This protective instinct, however, becomes their Achilles’ heel. As Godzilla battles the couple, their momentary distraction over the destruction of their nest provides Godzilla the crucial opportunity to recuperate. The climax of their conflict is both visually and emotionally charged, culminating in Godzilla’s iconic use of his Atomic Breath to defeat the female MUTO, after cunningly dispatching the male. This battle not only highlights Godzilla’s resilience and strategic prowess but also solidifies the scene as a memorable moment in MonsterVerse history, proving that it takes more than two MUTOs to bring down the King of the Monsters.
Kong vs Skullcrawler
Movie: Kong: Skull Island, 2017
Who Won: Kong
Epicness: 8/10
Kong: Skull Island (2017) delivered the monumental showdown fans craved, as Kong clashed with the formidable Skullcrawler in a battle that defined the movie’s climax. This confrontation wasn’t just a fight – it was an epic display of scale, choreography, and sound design that took the audience’s breath away. Kong’s creativity in combat shines brightly as he wields a ship’s propeller like a weapon, turning it into a makeshift brass knuckle to land a crushing blow on the Skullcrawler, an image accompanied by the visually striking effect of red smoke emanating from the beast’s injuries. This moment of ingenuity highlights Kong’s unmatched power and resourcefulness.
The fight’s intensity escalates when, after surviving a napalm attack, Kong finds himself entangled in chains and facing the relentless assault of the Skullcrawler. With help from human survivors, who distract the Skullcrawler with a barrage of firepower, Kong seizes the moment to turn the tide. His adept use of the propeller to inflict a fatal wound on the Skullcrawler underscores his ability to adapt and overcome, cementing the battle as a pivotal moment in the film. Through sheer resilience and tactical use of his surroundings, Kong not only defeats his adversary but also ensures the audience’s journey to Skull Island is an unforgettable adventure.
Godzilla vs King Ghidorah
Movie: Godzilla: King of the Monsters, 2019
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 9/10
The rivalry between Godzilla and King Ghidorah, stretching over half a century, reached its pinnacle in Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019). This iteration of King Ghidorah presented a formidable challenge to Godzilla, setting the stage for an awe-inspiring final showdown that captivated audiences worldwide. The battle between these titanic forces escalates until Mothra, weakened from her own confrontation with Rodan, intervenes at a critical moment. In a selfless act, Mothra shields Godzilla from Ghidorah’s lethal blast, her sacrifice granting Godzilla a surge of power.
Empowered by Mothra’s essence, Godzilla unleashes a thermonuclear pulse, a decisive move that obliterates King Ghidorah, leaving the monster defenceless against Godzilla’s finishing blow of Atomic Breath, and marking the end of Ghidorah in a battle of epic proportions. Truly a clash befitting the legacy of these cinematic titans.
Godzilla vs Kong
Movie: Godzilla vs. Kong, 2021
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 9.5/10
The MonsterVerse has consistently amped up the action since Godzilla’s return to the screen in 2014, captivating audiences with its depiction of titanic battles. Among these, the confrontation between Godzilla and two MUTOs in 2014 set a high bar for kaiju showdowns, a level that was further elevated by Godzilla: King of the Monsters in 2019 with its array of spectacular encounters. However, it was Godzilla vs. Kong in 2021 that truly stole the show, becoming one of the franchise’s biggest hits by pitting these iconic behemoths against each other in a breathtaking spectacle.
One of the climactic battles in Godzilla vs. Kong takes place in the neon-drenched streets of Hong Kong, where the two titans unleash their full might. Godzilla brings his devastating Atomic Breath to the fray, while Kong, armed with an energy-absorbing axe, showcases agility and intelligence, making for a visually stunning and dynamic conflict. The fight reaches a peak when Kong loses his axe and suffers a dislocated arm, ultimately falling before Godzilla. In a moment of unexpected mercy, Godzilla spares Kong, leaving fans with a decisive victor yet hinting at a newfound alliance. This alliance sets the stage for their next adventure in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, promising more thrilling action in the MonsterVerse’s future.
Godzilla & Kong vs Mechagodzilla
Movie: Godzilla vs. Kong, 2021
Who Won: King Kong
Epicness: 10/10
The showdown in Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) reached an unexpected climax when Mechagodzilla emerged as a formidable antagonist, showcasing a level of strength and technological prowess that even Godzilla struggled to counteract alone. The arrival of this mechanical behemoth set the stage for an unprecedented alliance between Godzilla and King Kong, transforming former rivals into allies against a common foe. The synergy between the two titans, as they combined their strengths in a series of coordinated attacks, was a spectacle to behold.
The pinnacle of their teamwork was a moment of cinematic brilliance: Godzilla powering up Kong’s axe with his atomic breath, enabling Kong to deliver the final, decisive blow to Mechagodzilla. Kong’s triumphant display, holding Mechagodzilla’s severed head aloft, was not just a victory for the Titans but a moment that set a new benchmark for the MonsterVerse. As fans speculate on the future, one thing is clear: if Mechagodzilla were ever to return, the anticipation for another epic battle would reach fever pitch, promising an encounter that could rival, if not surpass, this monumental clash.
Godzilla vs Ion Dragon
TV Series: Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, 2023
Who Won: Godzilla
Epicness: 7.5/10
In the gripping final episode of Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, the stakes escalate dramatically when the Ion Dragon, a formidable adversary, is on the brink of overpowering the group. In a pivotal moment, Godzilla emerges, igniting an epic confrontation between the two titans. The battle unfolds with the Ion Dragon launching a vicious attack from the skies, only to be met with Godzilla’s indomitable might. As they clash, the Ion Dragon attempts to gain the upper hand by ensnaring Godzilla with its thagomizers and launching a direct assault on his throat. However, Godzilla’s resilience shines through as he retaliates, disarming the Ion Dragon and launching it into a mountain with a display of brute force.
The fight intensifies as the Ion Dragon employs its nacre in a strategic move to disorient Godzilla, only to be met with Godzilla’s iconic Atomic Breath and a body slam that tilts the scales in Godzilla’s favour. The spectacle of Godzilla overpowering the Ion Dragon, tearing off its wing and a tail spike, and ultimately dispatching it into a Vile Vortex, is a testament to the sheer scale and ambition that can be achieved on a TV budget. This thrilling sequence cements Godzilla’s status as the apex predator and also showcases the innovative spirit of the series, proving that even with television constraints, Monarch: Legacy of Monsters delivers battles that resonate with the grandeur and intensity of their big-screen counterparts.
Bonus: Godzilla vs King Kong
Movie: King Kong vs. Godzilla, 1962
Who Won: King Kong
Epicness: 7.5/10
Long before the rise of Japanese kaiju cinema, an American titan, King Kong, took the silver screen by storm, revolutionising the monster movie genre. The clash of these cinematic behemoths in 1962’s King Kong vs. Godzilla marked a groundbreaking moment in film history, pioneering the concept of the crossover event.
Within this epic confrontation, Kong and Godzilla showcased a balance of power and wit that left audiences captivated. Despite Godzilla’s seemingly superior abilities, Kong’s cunning and agility allowed him to outmanoeuvre and temporarily best his reptilian counterpart (plus the fact that at this point in history, King Kong is much older and well-known, and Godzilla was regarded as a villain then).
This encounter not only solidified their statuses as kings of monster cinema but also demonstrated the timeless appeal of their rivalry, setting a precedent for future cinematic showdowns.
After decades of thrilling audiences, the epic journeys of Godzilla, King Kong, and the countless titans they’ve faced solidify the captivating power of monster movies. The legacy of Godzilla and King Kong is immortalised not just in their victories or defeats but in the hearts of the audience who have cheered them on through every seismic step and atomic breath.
As the MonsterVerse continues to expand, one thing remains certain: the appetite for witnessing these legendary titans clash will never wane, promising more awe-inspiring battles that will continue to define the legacy of cinema’s greatest monsters.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, games, and comics — you name it. When she’s not reading or geeking out about the latest shows on Netflix, she’s probably playing Honkai: Star Rail, cosplaying, or daydreaming of meeting her idols.
Trinity Sun
Edwin Teo
