Just when I thought I was out... Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are pulling me back in! If Marvel's latest announcements are to be believed, Doom's conquest will unfold as an era, similar to Dark Reign, rather than a brief event like last year's Blood Hunt. This means that for most of 2025, the Marvel Universe will be under the rule of Doom, who will take on the roles of World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and head of the Superior Avengers.
As you might expect, the Superior Avengers will feature villains, but with a twist: familiar names will be donned by new characters:
- Abomination will be portrayed by Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
- Dr. Octopus will be a new female character, not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus).
- Ghost will be a nameless woman from the Ant-Man universe.
- Killmonger will take on a new form.
- Malekith will represent the Black Elves remaining on Earth.
- Onslaught will also join the ranks.
The Superior Avengers series, a 6-issue run, will be written by Steve Fox, known for his work on X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, and Spider-Woman, with art by Luca Maresca, who has contributed to X-Men: Forever and Children of the Vault. The series is set to launch in April.
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This concept isn't entirely new. For instance, in the 2009 Dark Avengers series, Norman Osborn replaced the Avengers with villains posing as heroes, including Iron Patriot, Scorpion (as Spider-Man), Moonstone (as Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (as Hawkeye), Daken (as Wolverine), Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares. Similarly, during the Secret Empire event, Hydra formed its own Avengers team, featuring the unworthy Thor, Vision (controlled by Arnim Zola), Scarlet Witch (controlled by Chthon), Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.
The question arises: how did Dr. Doom manage to achieve such monumental status as Supreme Sorcerer, World Emperor, and leader of the Dark and Superior Avengers? In this guide, we'll explore the key events that led to the creation of One World Under Doom, ensuring you stay updated on this transformative era.
Table of Contents
- Emperor Doom
- President Doom 2099
- Secret Wars
- Blood Hunt
Emperor Doom
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While the 1987 graphic novel by David Michelinie and Bob Hall, "Emperor Doom," might come to mind, it's not essential reading for understanding Doom's global domination. However, Doom's theft of the Silver Surfer's cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 showcases his ambition on a global scale. "Emperor Doom" is a prime example of Doom's vision for a world under his rule, with its straightforward and powerful premise.
President Doom 2099
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In the future depicted in Doom 2099, written by Warren Ellis and illustrated by Pat Broderick, Doom nearly conquers America. With lines like "America is the greatest threat to the planet" and "I'll save the world by protecting America," Doom 2099 stands out as a highlight of the Marvel 2099 line and exemplifies Doom's grandest exploits.
Secret Wars
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Mentioning Doom's greatest conquests leads us to Secret Wars, where Doom ascends to the role of God-Emperor. Fans of Marvel's best stories often point to Doom's role in Fantastic Four, Jonathan Hickman's The Avengers, and the 2015 Secret Wars event as prime examples of his pursuit of power and immortality for what he believes to be the greater good. In Secret Wars, Doom's actions—such as marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and appointing Ben Grimm as the Wall—reflect his personal vendettas. This story is a favorite for showcasing what Doom would do with ultimate power over the Marvel Universe.
Blood Hunt
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The most significant event leading to One World Under Doom is the 2024 Vampire Invasion, as depicted in the Blood Hunt series by Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz. Faced with a world overrun by vampirism fueled by the Darkhold, Doctor Strange turns to Dr. Doom for help. Doom insists on becoming Sorcerer Supreme to wield the necessary magic, and after saving the world, he retains the title, as Doctor Strange agrees that the world still needs saving.
As we await further details and a complete script from Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers in February, we can already dive into a world ruled solely by Doom.
