The X-Men’s Greatest Enemy

The X-Men have faced a lot of enemies, both in the comics and on the big screen. But some of their most heartbreaking losses have come from within. Betrayals by those closest to them have been an ongoing theme throughout the series, and they’ve had to grapple with not only their own broken trust, but also the consequences of their allies’ actions. Let’s take a look at some of the betrayals that cut the X-Men to their core.

Mystique

Mystique is one of the most beloved characters in the X-Men universe, and her relationship with Professor Xavier was once one of deep trust and friendship. But when she decided to join Magneto’s Brotherhood of Mutants, it sent shockwaves through both camps. The X-Men were so shocked by Mystique’s betrayal that they almost considered disbanding altogether. However, they eventually realized that losing Mystique didn’t necessarily mean they had lost forever—they just had to find a way to get her back on their side again.

Sabretooth

Sabretooth is one of Wolverine’s oldest enemies, but he has also been one of his closest allies. He was even invited into the ranks of the X-Men for a brief period in order to help protect them from Magneto and his forces. Unfortunately, Sabretooth couldn’t be trusted for long; he eventually betrayed them by joining forces with Apocalypse and trying to exterminate all mutants (including his former allies). His betrayal was so shocking that it nearly broke up the team completely before Wolverine stepped in and saved them from certain destruction.

Cyclops

Cyclops is arguably one of the strongest members of the X-Men team, but he has also caused some serious divisions among its ranks due to his frequent betrayals. Most notably, he has gone against Professor Xavier’s wishes multiple times—most recently when he sided with Magneto during Avengers vs X-Men and tried to destroy Earth’s Mightiest Heroes instead of joining forces with them against Apocalypse. Cyclops’ actions ultimately led to him being exiled from the team and ostracized by many other mutants as well.

Betrayal has been an ever-present theme in X-Men storylines over the years—and for good reason!

It cuts deeply into our heroes’ heartstrings every time someone close betrays them—especially when it comes from someone like Mystique or Cyclops who are supposed to be part of their inner circle! When these betrayals occur, it shakes up our heroes’ world view and forces them into difficult situations where they must decide whether loyalty or justice is more important in any given situation. We can only hope that someday our beloved mutants will learn how to mend some broken relationships…or at least make peace with those who have wronged them in some way.