I don't think it's a bad thing to push the heroic aspect of your character. We are, after all. competing to make the best Light/Darkness Warrior and some amount of heroicness (or infamy) comes with that. And even if you don't win - and there's no guarantees for anyone there! - then getting something else out of the challenge - like practicing perspective - is a worthy goal.
Anyhow, I feel like I'm getting too philosophical, so back to the layouts: I'm not a fan of one because it looks too in repose, not very active or dynamic. 2 is good - I love the idea of the stained glass! - but it is very symmetrical, which makes it less dynamic. 3 has both movement and a dynamic composition, and I think it's the strongest one here. (Although if he's facing/moving to the left, you might consider flipping the canvas so the movement is towards the right.)
Good luck whichever you choose! 
