Viable ASOIAF Characters Who Could Defeat Oberyn Martell in an Unfettered Duel Without Dying Later

George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire (ASOIAF) series has captured the hearts of countless readers with its complex characters and intricate battles. One of the most skilled and formidable characters in the series is Oberyn Martell, known for his acuity, agility, and lethal combat prowess. In this article, we will explore which Westerosi characters could best Oberyn Martell in a single combat scenario without falling prey to subsequent assassination or poisoning.

1. Ser Arthur Dayne

Ser Arthur Dayne is often regarded as one of the greatest knights in Westerosi history. A master swordsman, he is renowned for his unparalleled prowess in battle. If he were to face Oberyn Martell, his remarkable skills and vast experience would certainly allow him to emerge victorious. Imagine the iconic comparison between Dawn, Dayne's legendary sword, and Oberyn's spear—Dawn would easily shatter Oberyn's spear every two seconds due to Dayne's strength and agility. Furthermore, Dayne's unmatched dexterity and legendary strength would ensure that Oberyn could not even touch him before he was killed.

During his reign, Dayne was known for single-handedly defeating four to five Northern warriors, even coming close to assassinating Ned Stark himself. The devastating effectiveness of Dawn was undoubtedly seen when it shattered Ned's sword during that encounter. Dayne's strength and dominance in battle are unparalleled, making him a viable candidate for defeating Oberyn Martell in a fair duel.

Considering the possibility of post-combat survival, characters like Ser Arthur Dayne would be well-positioned to avoid assassination or poisoning due to their high status and the protection they can command. In contrast, others might not enjoy the same level of protection or foresight to avoid post-combat retaliation. Dayne's reputation and status could provide him with the necessary support to stay alive and ensure his survival.

2. Brienne of Tarth

Brienne of Tarth, often underestimated in terms of dueling prowess, might still present a formidable opponent to Oberyn Martell. While her reputation as a duelist isn't as illustrious as some of the others, Brienne's immense strength, size, and rigorous combat training make her a potential threat. In a fair fight, she could potentially defeat Oberyn Martell through her sheer physical advantages and determined will to fight. However, her success in such a duel would largely depend on her ability to outmaneuver and overpower Oberyn's agility and technique.

Brienne, despite her fearsome presence, might not have the same level of status and clout as characters like Ser Arthur Dayne or Jaime Lannister. Therefore, her future might hinge on her ability to protect herself and elude any subsequent attempts on her life, given the unpredictable and dangerous nature of Westeros.

3. Jaime Lannister

While Jaime Lannister may not have the reputation of an ideal competitor in dual combat matches, his skills and experience cannot be understated. During his prime, Jaime Lannister was an exceptional swordsman and a match for Oberyn Martell. However, by the time of their potential confrontation, Jaime had undergone significant character development, which may impact the outcome of their duel.

Jaime's character arc in ASOIAF has been highly influential, with his redemption and moral transformation making him a complex and nuanced figure. His refined combat skills, combined with a more refined view of honor and justice, might change the dynamic of their duel. Nonetheless, his lethal prowess and tactical acumen would make him a formidable opponent, capable of surviving the aftermath of such a duel.

4. Sandor Clegane (The Hound)

Known for his brute strength and combat ability, Sandor Clegane, or The Hound, would be a particularly compelling choice if we focus on sheer physical power. Clegane is not just a stalwart opponent but a force to be reckoned with. Despite Oberyn's agility and trickery, Clegane's sheer strength and combat training would allow him to overpower Oberyn, rendering the latter helpless.

While The Hound is not traditionally known as a duelist, his combat skills and sheer physicality would make him an effective adversary. His reputation and history of brutal encounters make him a formidable contender, capable of defeating Oberyn in a straightforward fight. However, similar to Brienne and Jaime, The Hound's survival in the immediate aftermath would depend on his ability to protect himself from assassination or poisoning.

5. Euron Greyjoy

While Euron Greyjoy is not traditionally a duelist, his unpredictability and cunning make him a potential contender in a fight against Oberyn Martell. Euron's ability to employ trickery and deception could give him an edge in a duel, especially if he manages to outmaneuver Oberyn. Despite his lack of conventional combat skills, Euron's resourcefulness and strategic thinking would be crucial in such a scenario.

Euron's character is complex, characterized by his shrewdness and willingness to take risks. His ability to survive and thrive in the winds of Westeros would make him a difficult opponent for Oberyn. However, his unpredictable nature might work to his advantage, allowing him to outmaneuver Oberyn in a fight. Post-combat survival would be dependent on his ability to evade assassination, given the treacherous nature of the Seven Kingdoms.

Conclusion

The outcome of a duel between an ASOIAF character and Oberyn Martell would be heavily influenced by the specific context, including alliances, political dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of Westeros. Characters like Ser Arthur Dayne, whose strength, speed, and mythical reputation could ensure his victory, might be better equipped to not only defeat but also survive the aftermath of a duel against Oberyn Martell. However, the other contenders such as Jaime Lannister, Brienne of Tarth, Sandor Clegane, and Euron Greyjoy, each bring unique advantages to the table, making them formidable opponents.