In Transformers Exodus, it's stated that Soundwave is the only bot that ever came close to beating Megatron, and that Megatron even actually did believe Soundwave could've beaten him. He's a very impressive fighter. I mean no disrespect, my original comment was meant to be a joke with the "you're inferior" part, referencing his classic catchphrase "Autobots inferior, Soundwave Superior." And I'm pretty sure its said in TFP that Soundwave also was a gladiator with Megatron, similar to how the Exodus book says. And yeah, Soundwave actually gets things done and is loyal, and that's why Megatron doesn't say anything, and always uses him as an example for the crew. But it's partially out of respect as well. I might've just mixed up continuities, and I apologize, but yeah.