Bruce Wayne might be gone, but the legend of Batman lives on in the capable hands of Robin John Blake -- at least, that's the assumption we're left with at the end of "The Dark Knight Rises," and based on a new rumor, that assumption is looking to become a reality.

A rumor originating at HitFix states that "Joseph Gordon-Levitt absolutely will be appearing in 'Justice League' as the new Batman." Their report stems from "sources" who say that "conversations" about creating a greater DC Cinematic Universe are now "solidifying into a plan," a plan that involves JGL seizing the cape and cowl as was his post-"Rises" destiny.

In fact, HitFix reports that JGL could make his next appearance as Batman even sooner than "Justice League." They speculate that "Man of Steel" could close with Superman encountering Commissioner Gordon and JGL-Batman on a rooftop in Gotham City, or some other similar scenario. Hard to imagine a theater not going wild at the sight of that.

For now, consider the JGL-Batman rumor nothing more than that -- a big, fat rumor. But it's a rumor that makes sense: if WB wants to mimic Marvel's continuity success story, it would behoove them to tie their most successful superhero franchise of all time into their future plans. Bale's Batman is retired, sure, but Nolan's films end with an heir apparent. Perhaps JGL's Dark Knight is the hero we need going forward after all.

What do you make of the latest Batman rumor? Let us know in the comments section below or hit us up on Twitter!