Imagine two assassins from two different universes assigned to the same job. One has incredible skill while the other possesses a photographic memory unlike no other. Their mission: each other. Which assassin comes out on top?
The likes of Taskmaster and Deathstroke are two of the Marvel and DC universes' most deadly and vicious assassins, each one possessing their own unique abilities and strengths that are hampered by their own weaknesses as well. Whether it be taking on each other or heroes, the pair are more than a match for one another.
Taskmaster: Talkative
While most assume that most fights require physical strength, most are actually done via verbal. Why else do heroes banter and quip when fighting? As a way to distract from their own weakness and catch the opponent off-guard.
Taskmaster, although equally gifted in other attributes, is a bit of a loudmouth in comics. While he does have his stern quiet moments he's usually seen making some joke or quip; something that could come in handy in distracting Deathstroke and quite possibly may earn him the upper hand. Who knows, maybe some of his banter has some surprisingly good advice in it like so many MCU supervillains.
Deathstroke: Silent
On the flip side of things, it can be said that silence oftentimes is golden. Being able to keep oneself quiet and in focus is incredibly important in a battle, something that can aid a hero or villain more than some witty banter and loud mouthing.
Slade Wilson AKA Deathstroke the Terminator has always been seen as a vicious killer, assassin, and even reluctant ally in Arrow's fantastic second season that's rivaled only by season five. He's never been known to let his mouth get the better of him despite some long-winded victorious speeches and would simply let his actions do the talking.
Taskmaster: Photographic Memory
Given that these assassins exist in the realm of superheroes and comic books, it's hard to not see them having some kind of ability to aid them against heroes and villains alike. And when going up against just as powerful foes, what better technique to have than photographic memory?
Taskmaster in some ways is like a human mirror. His photographic memory allows him to literally mimic his enemies' fighting styles, something he'll soon implement in the MCU. While he can't mimic powers, copying a deadly punch or implementing a powerful block would be useful against Deathstroke.
Deathstroke: Superhuman Abilities
Of course, superpowers are usually a nice little boost to have in a fight. Especially when the fight is between said super being and a normal guy with a fancy memory. Chances are, the superpowers will undoubtedly give one the edge, although probably not over someone like Black Widow.
Slade's powers over the years have changed and adapted. From super strength to superhuman speed and agility to even a slight healing factor, Slade's abilities have always been able to give him the upper hand in a battle or fight, especially up against someone with almost no powers.
Taskmaster: Black Ant
Even villains need a friend now and again. While heroes obviously hate and despise villains, that's not to say other villains don't admire them. For Taskmaster, that admirer or buddy is the Black Ant, Eric O'Grady.
A darker and more irresponsible version of Ant-Man (yes, that's a thing), O'Grady possesses the same powers of Ant-Man. Despite having none of the great gags the movie offered, he is able to shrink and grow just with a little more brutality. So, if his buddy's in trouble O'Grady would be willing to step in and give him a hand. For a price, of course.
Deathstroke: Terra
Allies are always good to have but what's better than an ally? A student seeking approval from a teacher. Throughout media, Deathstroke has tried to gain an apprentice in many different forms but none have been as infamous as Terra.
A metahuman with the ability to control rocks, Terra is a dangerous meta who for a time, served as Slades' apprentice. While she turned to good in the end, that's not to say that Wilson wouldn't be able to find some incentive to push Terra back to his side.
Taskmaster: Avengers
What's nice about the world of comics is that everything is hypothetical. Granted, there are some times where characters do things that go against their norm but it's just comics. Strange changes are always expected, like villains turning to heroes.
If Taskmaster was overwhelmed by Deathstroke, he may end up crawling and groveling to Earth's Mightiest, The Avengers, for assistance. With their combined strength, they may end up helping Taskmaster in order to take down a greater evil like Deathstroke. It may never happen but it's always fun to consider.
Deathstroke: Teen Titans
Deals with the devil, or in this case, heroes, are always going to be complicated. Taskmaster groveling for the Avengers help actually is somewhat more plausible than Deathstroke going to the Teen Titans for some backup against Taskmasters.
Not because the teenagers are somewhat inexperienced and immature (despite their show having so many great episodes) but because they're Slade's worst enemies. That being said, it being the world of comics, they'd probably begrudgingly help him out and take on the Avengers and Taskmaster. Whether they win, is another question entirely but they could level the playing field.
Taskmaster: Ruthlessness
When it comes down to it, the only thing that's going to help in a fight is how brutal or unrelenting one can be. If one's resolve and anger is just and directed properly, they can have a chance to do some real damage and take out their foe.
Yes, Taskmaster is human, but he's also a world-class assassin who's taken on the likes of Spider-Man and the Avengers. His ruthlessness knows no boundaries and truthfully, he'd have a chance if it just lets it all loose.
Deathstroke: Intellect
Brains vs brawn. While brawn will almost always succeed, brains are a key component in a fight. if one is intelligent, careful minded and is able to see their next move five steps ahead, they have a chance at beating down the brawn and winning the fight.
In any form of media, comic or otherwise, Deathstroke has always shown himself to be a competent and intelligent foe. From dismantling his greatest foes, Teen Titans from the inside out to plotting large-scale plans, and almost becoming one of Arrow's greatest villains all thanks to his intellect, Slade's intellect is just as great as his brawn.