<P> `` Knightfall '' is a 1993 - 1994 Batman story arc published by DC Comics . It consists of a trilogy of storylines that ran from 1993 to 1994 , consisting of `` Knightfall '' , `` Knightquest '' , and `` KnightsEnd '' . The story takes place over approximately six months . Bruce Wayne ( Batman ) suffers burnout and is systematically assaulted and crippled by a `` super steroid '' - enhanced genius named Bane . Wayne is replaced as Batman by an apprentice named Jean - Paul Valley ( a.k.a. Azrael ) , who becomes increasingly violent and unstable , tarnishing Batman 's reputation . Eventually , Wayne is healed through paranormal means , and reclaims his role as Batman . </P>
who took over for batman when his back was broken
an apprentice named Jean - Paul Valley ( a.k.a. Azrael )