The 25 Best Fighters on Game of Thrones, Ranked

3) THE HOUND (Previous Ranking: 8)

Category: Brawler

In a world where we don’t get to see everybody face off with everybody else, it’s still hard to imagine many people being capable of overcoming the Hound in the field. He killed his first opponent at the age of twelve and hasn’t looked back since. Despite his love of killing and disdain for chivalry, knighthood and holy vows, Sandor Clegane does follow a code. His contradictions make him one of the most complex and interesting characters in the Thrones pantheon.

The Hound has clobbered many soldiers, civilians and Beric Dondarrion, but he also turned tail at the Battle of the Blackwater and, in a weakened condition, was bested by Brienne of Tarth. He isn’t perfect, but that just makes us root for him more. We’ll certainly cheer him on if he ever faces off against the his despicable brother Gregor (see Cleganebowl) in a fratricidal duel Thrones fans have long been waiting for.