Aquaman: Epic bad-ass? I think, "Yes!"
Seriously, ditch the preconceived notions of the golden mullet and the orange and green outfit.
The man is the king of all seas, and chopped of his own hand to escape and exact revenge on an enemy.
Sure, speaking to sea-life may seem like a dumpy power, until he telepathically commands half a dozen orcas and sharks to stomp your ass.
Not to mention that most people don't realize Aquaman is at least strong enough to throw a small car.