HBO’s upcoming Game of Thrones spin-off, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, has sparked fresh interest in Duncan the Tall and his adventures across Westeros. The new series follows the humble knight and his young squire, Egg.
Duncan is remembered as one of the most famous knights in Westeros. But how would he fare against the greatest fighters from Game of Thrones? Here are seven warriors who could have a strong chance of defeating him.
No.7 – Gregor “The Mountain” Clegane
Gregor’s Famous Kills: Oberyn Martell, Beric Dondarrion.
Ser Gregor Clegane was one of the most feared warriors in Westeros. His enormous size and raw strength made him a dangerous opponent for almost anyone.
Gregor fought in some of the realm’s bloodiest conflicts. He also killed Elia Martell during the Sack of King’s Landing and later terrorised the Riverlands.
Duncan would have a difficult battle against Gregor because of the Mountain’s size and power. Gregor famously defeated Oberyn Martell and crushed his skull during their brutal fight.
No. 6 – Sandor “The Hound” Clegane
Sandor’s Famous Kills: Gregor Clegane, Beric Dondarrion, Polliver.
Sandor Clegane could provide Duncan with a very different challenge. Unlike his brother Gregor, The Hound combines strength with speed, experience and impressive combat skills.
Sandor fought in several major battles throughout the series. He survived the Battle of Blackwater, defeated Beric Dondarrion and later fought during the Battle of Winterfell.
His combination of agility and aggression could give him an advantage against Duncan.
No. 5 – Brienne of Tarth
Brienne’s Famous Kills: Stannis Baratheon, Emmon Cuy, Robar Royce.
Brienne of Tarth is one of the most skilled warriors in Game of Thrones. She combines physical strength, discipline and years of combat experience.
Brienne famously defeated The Hound in single combat. She also killed Robar Royce and Emmon Cuy before defeating Stannis Baratheon.
Her ability to fight larger opponents makes her a serious threat to Duncan. The fact that Duncan is rumoured to be her ancestor would make this hypothetical battle even more interesting.
No. 4 – Oberyn “The Red Viper” Martell
Oberyn’s Famous Kills: Numerous opponents during his career.
Oberyn Martell was not a knight, but his unique fighting style could give him an advantage against Duncan. The Red Viper relied on speed, precision and his spear rather than brute strength.
His fight against Gregor Clegane showed how effective that approach could be. Oberyn used his reach and movement to keep the much larger Mountain at a distance.
Duncan’s size could make him vulnerable to a similar strategy. Oberyn’s greatest weakness, however, was his decision to let his emotions take control after defeating Gregor.
No. 3 – Jaime “Kingslayer” Lannister
Jaime’s Famous Kills: Jory Cassel, Stark soldiers and Euron Greyjoy.
Jaime Lannister was one of Westeros’ greatest swordsmen during his prime. Barristan Selmy considered him a natural talent, and Jaime earned his knighthood at only 15.
Even after losing the Battle of Whispering Wood, Jaime remained a formidable fighter. It took several Stark soldiers to overpower him, while Robb Stark acknowledged Jaime’s exceptional skill.
A prime Jaime would have the speed, technique and experience needed to challenge Duncan in a one-on-one fight.
No.2 – Arthur “The Sword of the Morning” Dayne
Arthur’s Famous Kills: The Smiling Knight and Ned Stark’s companions.
Arthur Dayne is widely regarded as one of the greatest swordsmen in Westeros. He carried Dawn, the legendary sword of House Dayne, and earned the title “Sword of the Morning”.
Several characters, including Ned Stark and Jaime Lannister, praised Dayne’s extraordinary abilities.
His reputation puts him among the few warriors who could realistically challenge Duncan at his peak. His skill, speed and mastery of the sword would make him a formidable opponent.
No.1 – Barristan “The Bold” Selmy
Barristan’s Famous Kills: Maelys Blackfyre, Simon Toyne, Khrazz and Mero.
Barristan Selmy has one of the most impressive combat records in Westerosi history. He fought in major conflicts, defeated powerful enemies and served several kings as a member of the Kingsguard.
His biggest advantage over Duncan comes from their own history. Barristan unhorsed Duncan during a winter tourney in King’s Landing when Barristan was only 16.
Although the encounter was not a full single combat, it offers an interesting clue about how the two knights compared.
A prime Barristan would have the experience, technique and proven ability to give Duncan one of his toughest fights.
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