Thunderbolts Join Marvel's Epic "One World Under Doom"

2025: The Marvel Universe Under Doom's Reign

The Marvel Universe in 2025 is defined by one word: "Doom." February marks the launch of "One World Under Doom," a massive crossover event. Doctor Doom, the newly crowned Sorcerer Supreme, declares himself world emperor. This storyline unfolds in Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A key tie-in is "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike," written by Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing, with art by Tommaso Bianchi.

IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). The solicitation teases a Thunderbolts versus Thunderbolts showdown over vibranium.

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Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom?

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with neutralizing major villains. Their successes, however, inadvertently paved Doom's path to power.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the US Government's defenses. This destabilized Hydra, the criminal underworld, and US security – actions intended to improve the world but ultimately empowering Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool."

Kelly reveals that a Doom-centric storyline was always planned. The "One World Under Doom" crossover's alignment with their narrative was fortuitous. "Doomstrike" becomes a referendum on Bucky's choices, offering him a chance at redemption.

Bucky's guilt, stemming from his past as the Winter Soldier, is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly states, "This new burden, coupled with Doom's awareness of it, will be Doom's greatest weapon against him."

The Thunderbolts' motivations are diverse. Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism but also grieves for her lost love. Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety. Destroyer is already on a mission. Sharon Carter combats fascism. U.S. Agent is disillusioned. Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, re-enters the fray. Other members remain a surprise.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "That's a complex question best answered by reading issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

"Doomstrike" features the original 1997 Thunderbolts lineup, many now allied with Doom. The clash between the two Thunderbolts teams is a major plot point.

Kelly emphasizes the return of the original Thunderbolts and their core dilemma: the possibility of redemption for villains. Lanzing adds that Doom, not Bucky, controls the name "Thunderbolts," using them as his "Fulgar Victoris." The reasons behind their organization and Bucky's status as a primary target are key mysteries.

Songbird's internal conflict between loyalty to old and new teammates is a pivotal element. Kelly notes her excitement to aid Bucky, but the return of her friends serving Doom will deeply affect her.

This storyline culminates Kelly and Lanzing's years-long Bucky Barnes narrative, encompassing "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War."

Lanzing describes it as the "grand finale" of their "Revolution Saga," encompassing previous works. This is their final Bucky Barnes story for the foreseeable future.

The creators aim to engage MCU viewers, particularly those familiar with Bucky and Natasha's relationship. They hope to introduce Doom to a wider audience, creating a pathway for MCU fans to explore Marvel comics.

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"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #1 releases February 19, 2025.