Just when I thought I was out... Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are pulling me back in! If Marvel is to be believed, Doom's conquest will be less of a fleeting event and more of a prolonged era, similar to "Dark Reign." This means the Marvel universe will continue throughout most of 2025, but with Doom reigning supreme as World Emperor and Sorcerer Supreme, even leading the Superior Avengers.
As you might expect, the Superior Avengers will feature villains, but not the ones you're used to. Familiar names will be worn by new characters:
- Abomination: This time it's Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
- Dr. Octopus: Not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus), but a different woman entirely.
- Ghost: Think Ant-Man's Ghost… but a nameless woman.
- Killmonger: A new take on the character.
- Malekith: The Black Elves remain on Earth.
- Onslaught: He's in the mix.
The Superior Avengers series, a six-issue run written by Steve Fox (known for X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, Spider-Woman) and illustrated by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault), launches this April.
This isn't a completely new concept. Remember Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers in 2009? He replaced the Avengers with villains like Iron Patriot, Scorpion (posing as Spider-Man), Moonstone (a false Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (a false Hawkeye), Daken (a false Wolverine), Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares. Similarly, Hydra's Avengers in Secret Empire included an unworthy Thor, a Zola-controlled Vision, a Chthon-controlled Scarlet Witch, Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.
But wait… World Emperor? Sorcerer Supreme? Dark and Superior Avengers? How did Dr. Doom pull this off? Let's explore the events leading to "One World Under Doom."
Table of Contents
- Emperor Doom
- President Doom 2099
- Secret Wars
- Blood Hunt
While Emperor Doom (1987) by David Michelinie and Bob Hall is a significant story, it's not the only example of Doom's global domination. The core idea—a world ruled by Doom—is powerful and straightforward.
President Doom 2099
In Doom 2099, by Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick, future Doom nearly conquers America. His 90s-era, radical pronouncements like, "America is the greatest threat to the planet," and "I'll save the world by protecting America," are highlights of Marvel 2099 and showcase Doom's ambition.
Secret Wars
Doom's role in Jonathan Hickman's Avengers and 2015's Secret Wars is legendary. He showcases his relentless pursuit of power and immortality, all under the guise of benevolent governance. His actions—like marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and making Ben Grimm the Wall—are driven by his own personal agendas. This story perfectly illustrates Doom's potential with ultimate power.
Blood Hunt
Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz's 2024 Vampire Invasion event is crucial. Dr. Strange turns to Doom to defeat the vampiric threat fueled by the Darkhold. Doom becomes Sorcerer Supreme, a position he retains even after the crisis, arguing that the world isn't fully saved.
So, while we eagerly await the Russo and Downey Jr. collaboration in February, let's delve into the world now ruled entirely by Dr. Doom.
