User blog comment:Goddess of Despair/King of Kings Round 1: Alexander the Great vs Richard the Lionheart/@comment-5078776-20131214172908

CFP3157'S EDGES OF MASSIVE DESTRUCTION: "Better roster than 2CH"

Sword and Shield: Alexander the Great

Normally, for sword on sword I’d give the edge to Richard. However, the effective combo of the short curved Kopis and his shield will allow him to keep Richard in a close proximity. The longsword may be longer and made of better materials, but it’s slow and bulky when used with the Kite shield. Besides, combat of the medieval ages dominated with basically using the momentum of the sword to bash your opponent. Alexander’s isn’t exactly agile, but that large shield should give him coverage to close the distance to swing his faster and somewhat more versatile Kopis.

Polearm: Richard the Lion Heart

The Billhook may not be as long as the Sarissa, but it’s far less clunky than the spear. Some would argue that the wooden body would make it lighter, but the steel billhook will tear through that wood like butter, especially on such a long and unwieldy weapon.

Long Range: Even

The crossbow may lack the speed of the bow, but it is more powerful and can be more accurate. Depending on if Alexander’s bowmen are Greek bowmen or skirmishers like Peltasts, their accuracy can vary in small situations.

Tactics: Alexander the Great

The Battle of Gaugamela was an example of tactical genius in stupid terrible odds. The use of deception of the Peltast forces mixed with skilled tactical maneuvering of light foot soldiers and cavalry provided a devastating victory against Persian forces. The Siege of Acre was impressive victory for Richard and the Crusaders, but it was a pyric in the end.

Armor: Richard the Lion Heart

The chainmail is simply made of a stronger material; steel. This metal is far stronger than the iron weapons that Alexander brings to the table, and while the longsword can’t pierce the bronze cuirass, Corinthian helmet, or Aspis shield, the weight of the weapon will allow it to deal internal trauma against Alexander and his men.

Winner: Richard the Lionheart

Quite simply, despite Alexander's great combo up close with his Aspis and Kopis and his amazing tactical mind, Richard will win this. He's got weapons made of stronger material and he's wearing better armor. He can continue to deal fast damage against Alexander and continue to dodge his attack in his lighter chainmail. Plus, Richard is arguably a stronger warrior wielding a sword meant for bashing against Alexander's defenses.