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 anything to go by, Doom's reign is set to be more of an era, akin to Dark Reign, rather than a fleeting "event" like last year's Blood Hunt. This means that throughout most of 2025, the Marvel Universe will be under the iron rule of Doom, who will not only assume the title of World Emperor but also become the Sorcerer Supreme and lead 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 mysterious woman from the Ant-Man universe.
- Killmonger will take on a new form.
- Malekith will lead the Black Elves on Earth.
- Onslaught will also join the ranks.
The Superior Avengers series, a six-issue run, will be penned by Steve Fox (known for X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, and Spider-Woman) with art by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault). The series is slated 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 his own team of sub-villains, including Iron Patriot, Scorpion (posing as Spider-Man), Moonstone (as a faux Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (as a fake Hawkeye), Daken (as a false 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 (under Chthon's control), Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.
But how did Dr. Doom achieve such monumental titles and power? Let's explore the stepping stones that led to One World Under Doom.
Table of Contents
- Emperor Doom
- President Doom 2099
- Secret Wars
- Blood Hunt
Emperor Doom
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While the 1987 graphic novel "Emperor Doom" by David Michelinie and Bob Hall might come to mind, it's not essential reading. However, Doom's theft of the Silver Surfer's cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 marked his first foray into global domination. "Emperor Doom" encapsulates the concept of a world ruled by Doom, presenting a straightforward and powerful premise.
President Doom 2099
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In the Doom 2099 series by Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick, a futuristic Doom nearly conquers America, declaring, "America is the greatest threat to the planet. I'll save the world by protecting America." This series stands out as a highlight of Marvel 2099 and exemplifies Doom's historical exploits.
Secret Wars
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When discussing Doom's greatest conquests, Secret Wars cannot be overlooked. From his role in Fantastic Four to Jonathan Hickman's The Avengers, and culminating in the 2015 Secret Wars event, Doom's quest for power and immortality is showcased brilliantly. In Secret Wars, Doom saves the universe in his name, marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and appointing Ben Grimm as the Wall, driven by his own unresolved issues. This narrative is a compelling exploration of what Doom would do with ultimate power.
Blood Hunt
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The most recent continuity leading to One World Under Doom is the 2024 Vampire Invasion event, Blood Hunt, by Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz. Facing a world overrun by vampirism fueled by the Darkhold, Doctor Strange turns to Dr. Doom for help. Doom insists on becoming the Sorcerer Supreme to wield the necessary magic, and even after the crisis, he retains the title with Dr. Strange's reluctant agreement that the world still needs saving.
As we await further developments from Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers in February, we're set to explore a world dominated by none other than Doom himself.
