Two legends have collided as Dave Gibbons gives Marvel's latest Venom arc a Watchmen-themed variant cover.While artist Ryan Stegman has already boasted that Marvel's current Venom series is better than Alan Moore and Gibbons' legendary Watchmen, there's now another link between the two worlds. The image of a blood-covered smiley face has become synonymous with Watchmen and an iconic piece of comic book artwork. Now, Gibbons is giving his drawing a symbiote makeover.

Shared by Marvel Chief Creative Officer Joe Quesada, the cover is a not-so-subtle homage to Gibbons' Watchmen #1 . Stegman also shared his impression, writing on Twitter, "Here we go. Probably the greatest variant cover in history. Better than the main cover by me, that's for sure."

RELATED: Venom and Eddie Brock's Bond Has Been Drastically Altered - Again

The Venom #11 variant was teased by Quesada on Oct. 11. Posting on Twitter, Quesada said he'd received news that one of his all-time favorite artists was taking time out of their busy schedule to draw a cover for Venom.

Stegman and writer Donny Cates have been working on a "fresh start" for Venom since May, once again focusing on the trials and tribulations of the alien symbiote and Eddie Brock. Interestingly, the Venom #11 variant marks another milestone as Gibbons' first work with Marvel (outside Millarworld) since 2004's Captain America #20.

Those wanting to get their hands on Gibbons' Venom variant may have a bit of a wait. Venom #11 hasn't been solicited yet, but with Venom #10 due in January 2019, fans should expect a February 2019 release.

RELATED: Watchmen's Dave Gibbons Is Sorry For 'Misery' Comic's Influence Caused