Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are bringing Doctor Doom back into the Marvel spotlight! If Marvel's claims are accurate, Doom's reign will be a prolonged era, similar to "Dark Reign," rather than a short-lived event. This means the Marvel universe will continue throughout most of 2025, but under Doom's iron fist as World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and leader of the Superior Avengers.

Predictably, the Superior Avengers will feature villains, but not the familiar versions. New characters will adopt these iconic names:

• Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
• Dr. Octopus: A different woman, not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus).
• Ghost: A nameless woman, as in Ant-Man.
• Killmonger: A new interpretation.
• Malekith: The Black Elves remain on Earth.
• Onslaught: A new take on the classic villain.

The Superior Avengers will be a 6-issue miniseries 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). It launches in April.

This concept isn't entirely new. Norman Osborn's Dark Avengers in 2009 used similar tactics, replacing the Avengers with villains like Iron Patriot, Scorpion, Moonstone, Swordsman, Daken, Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares. Hydra's Secret Empire also featured its own Avengers roster.

But how did Dr. Doom achieve this unprecedented level of power – World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and leader of the Superior Avengers? This guide will 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) is a relevant comic, it's not essential reading. While not his first global-scale conquest, it exemplifies the concept of a Doom-ruled world. The story's strength lies in its simple yet powerful premise.

President Doom 2099 showcases another era of Doom's near-global dominance, specifically focusing on his near-conquest of America. Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick's 90s-era story features memorable lines like, "America is the greatest threat to the planet," and "I'll save the world by protecting America." It's a highlight of Marvel 2099 and exemplifies Doom's historical ambitions.

Doom's role in Fantastic Four, Jonathan Hickman's Avengers, and 2015's Secret Wars are essential reading for understanding his ambition. Secret Wars particularly highlights his relentless pursuit of power and immortality, all under the guise of benevolent governance. His actions, like marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm, and establishing Ben Grimm's role, are driven by his personal grievances. This story showcases his potential if he controlled the Marvel universe's power.

Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz's 2024 Vampire Invasion event, "Blood Hunt," is the most crucial storyline leading to "One World Under Doom." Doctor Strange turns to Doom to stop a Darkhold-fueled vampire plague. Doom accepts the mantle of Sorcerer Supreme, and retains it even after the crisis, due to Dr. Strange's agreement that the world isn't fully safe.

While we await the Russo/Downey Jr. collaboration, let's explore Doom's singular reign.