This comprehensive analysis examines how Axelar, LayerZero, and Wormhole compete in cross-chain interoperability, each employing distinct validation architectures: Axelar's Delegated Proof-of-Stake with 75+ validators, LayerZero's modular oracle-relayer design, and Wormhole's guardian network model. Axelar demonstrates strong market growth with $1.23 billion market cap and 65 connected chains, emphasizing decentralization and institutional-grade security. The article evaluates transaction performance, cost structures, and ecosystem adoption patterns while highlighting Axelar's unique advantages through Cosmos integration, General Message Passing, and Interchain Token Service. Comparative metrics reveal LayerZero's speed efficiency and Wormhole's balanced approach, providing readers with clear differentiation factors for protocol selection based on security requirements, transaction latency, and specific blockchain ecosystem needs.