Like the Christmas tree you probably should've put away a few days ago -- the social networks have lit up at the first sign of what appears to be confirmation of Lex Luthor and Bane within the ranks of Injustice: Gods Among Us!

No official source can be quoted yet, but a YouTube video purports to be showing off pages of Gamer Magazine, which reveals the two new additions to the DC Comics fighting game roster.

There's very little reason to doubt the claim. Nevermind the authenticity of the image -- both characters have more than enough cache to warrant inclusion. Lex Luthor appeared in the previously released launch trailer, while Bane is coming off a renewed hike in relevance thanks to the 2012 blockbuster feature film, The Dark Knight Rises.

Luthor appears in the most traditional guise, returning in a version of the powersuit previously featured in NetherRealm Studios' [then-Midway developed] Mortal Kombat versus DC Universe. As he so often has, Bane gets a slightly more exaggerated treatment than his iconic comic book incarnation, packing a mountain of macho muscle. With massive green tubes of Venom pumping into his luchadore-inspired mask, this bulky Bane owes much to the likes of the Batman: Arkham Asylum. Back breaking aplenty no doubt awaits!

Update: Injustice Creative Director and face of NetherRealm Studios, Ed Boon, has sprung forth to confirm the legitimacy of the scans (via twitter):

Both villains play perfect counterpart to the iconic rivals who will be at odds when Injustice: Gods Among Us hits home consoles. Batman and Superman are no strangers to each others throats, and according to previous story leaks, as well as previews for the upcoming comic book series, they'll be going head-to-head with Wonder Woman somewhere near the middle [full story]!

Update: Readers of the magazine are also reporting previews from the much touted in-game story mode. Aquaman, Captain Marvel, Doomsday and Sinestro are among the characters referenced, or included. The exact status of these characters remains unknown.

Where will the villains fall in this clash of titans? Jump on the DC Universe Injustice forum to share your thoughts! Mortal Kombat Online does not support the appropriation of unauthorized copyright, but will follow the story as it develops. Thanks to , & for forwarding information.