Why Thunderbolts: Doomstrike Is an Essential Part of Marvel's One World Under Doom Crossover

2025: A 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 major crossover event. Doctor Doom, the newly crowned Sorcerer Supreme, declares himself emperor of the world. This narrative 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," by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, and Tommaso Bianchi.

IGN presents an exclusive preview of "Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" #3 (April release). The official synopsis teases a clash: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts! Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts!"

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Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom's Rise?

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

Lanzing explains, "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and destabilized the US government. This was intended to improve global safety, but it also emboldened Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool."

Kelly reveals that the "Worldstrike" storyline was always intended to lead into a Doom-focused narrative. The "One World Under Doom" crossover event, orchestrated by Ryan North, provided a fitting backdrop.

Kelly states, "Bucky's manipulation of Doom became a pivotal event in Doom's ascent. 'Doomstrike' is Bucky's chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."

Bucky's guilt over his role in Doom's rise is central to "Doomstrike." Kelly notes that guilt has been a constant theme in Bucky's narrative since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier.

Kelly adds, "This new burden, coupled with Doom's awareness of it, will be Doom's greatest weapon against Bucky."

Lanzing discusses the varied motivations of the other Thunderbolts: Songbird, driven by loyalty and a desire for heroism; Black Widow, focused on Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter, combating fascism; U.S. Agent, disillusioned by his country's submission; and Ghost Rider '44, a re-engaged old friend of Bucky's.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Her role is complex and will be revealed in issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

"Doomstrike" features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, most of whom now serve Doom. The clash between Bucky's team and Doom's is a major plot point.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts, stating, "It's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"

Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, is using the Thunderbolts name. He adds, "In Doom's world, heroes are under his control. But why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"

Songbird's internal conflict, torn between loyalty to her old and new teams, is a key element. Kelly states, "Her history with the Thunderbolts will deeply affect her."

The Culmination of the Bucky Barnes Storyline

Kelly and Lanzing's work on Bucky spans several years, including "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" and "Captain America: Cold War." "Doomstrike" is presented as the culmination of their Bucky storyline.

Lanzing confirms, "This is our final Bucky Barnes tale for now. It's the grand finale of our 'Revolution Saga,' which began in 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier' and continued through 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' 'Captain America: Cold War,' and 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.'"

Connecting with the MCU

Kelly and Lanzing express their hope that "Doomstrike" will attract MCU viewers, particularly given the similarities in the team roster. They believe the story will resonate with fans of MCU Bucky, Natasha, and Doom.

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