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 single event (like last year's Blood Hunt) and more of an era, akin 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 heading the Superior Avengers.
As you might expect, the Superior Avengers roster includes villains—but not the versions we're used to. Familiar names will be worn by new characters:
- Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
- Dr. Octopus: A new, unnamed woman takes on the mantle.
- Ghost: A nameless woman, seemingly connected to Ant-Man.
- Killmonger: A reimagined version of the character.
- Malekith: The Black Elves remain on Earth.
- Onslaught: A significant addition to the team.
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) with art by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault), launches in April.
This isn't a completely new concept. Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers in 2009 featured villainous replacements for the Avengers, and Secret Empire saw Hydra assemble its own team.
But World Emperor? Sorcerer Supreme? Dark and Superior Avengers? How did Dr. Doom pull this off? Let's explore the key events leading to One World Under Doom:
Table of Contents
- Emperor Doom
- President Doom 2099
- Secret Wars
- Blood Hunt
Emperor Doom
While Emperor Doom (1987) isn't strictly necessary reading, it perfectly encapsulates the idea of a world ruled by Doom. The story's power lies in its simple, impactful premise.
President Doom 2099
In Doom 2099, a future Doom nearly conquers America. Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick's 90s-era Doom delivers memorable lines like, "America is the greatest threat to the planet. I'll save the world by protecting America." A highlight of Marvel 2099, and a great example of Doom's ambition.
Secret Wars
Doom's role in Jonathan Hickman's Avengers and 2015's Secret Wars showcases his relentless pursuit of power and immortality, all under the guise of good governance. He saves the day, but on his own terms, making decisions—like marrying Sue Storm—driven by personal motivations. This is a prime example of Doom's potential with ultimate power.
Blood Hunt
Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz's 2024 Vampire Invasion event is crucial. Doctor Strange turns to Doom to defeat the Darkhold-fueled vampires, granting Doom the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme. Surprisingly, Doom retains this power even after the crisis, paving the way for his current reign.
So, while we await the Russo/Downey Jr. vision in February, let's prepare for a world completely under Doom's control.
