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

2025 in the Marvel Universe? One word: Doom. February brings the One World Under Doom crossover event, where Doctor Doom, the new Sorcerer Supreme, declares himself Emperor of the World. This epic story unfolds in Ryan North and R.B. Silva's One World Under Doom miniseries and numerous tie-ins, including the crucial Thunderbolts: Doomstrike by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, and Tommaso Bianchi.

IGN exclusively previews Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 (April release). Marvel's solicitation teases a thrilling conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels target Doctor Doom's vibranium supply, only to face off against…the Thunderbolts?! Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts!"

See the preview gallery below, then hear from Kelly and Lanzing about this series, the culmination of a years-long Bucky Barnes storyline.

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery

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Is Bucky Barnes to Blame for Emperor Doom?

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike continues the story from Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 Thunderbolts relaunch. Bucky Barnes leads a team tasked with taking down major villains, using any means necessary. Their victories, however, inadvertently paved the way for Doom's rise.

Lanzing explains: "Bucky eliminated the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and destabilized the US government. This was meant to create a safer world, but it also inspired Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a pawn. No one uses Doom as a weapon without consequences."

Kelly reveals their Worldstrike storyline was always planned to lead to a Doom-centric sequel. The One World Under Doom crossover event, spearheaded by Ryan North, conveniently aligned with their vision. "Bucky's manipulation of Doom became a key inciting incident for Doom's rise to power. Doomstrike is Bucky's chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."

Bucky's guilt over Doom's rise will be central to Doomstrike. Kelly points out that guilt has been a constant in Bucky's life since his resurrection as the Winter Soldier. "This new burden, coupled with Doom's awareness of it, will be Doom's greatest weapon."

Lanzing details the motivations of the other Thunderbolts: Songbird, driven by loyalty and a desire for heroism, yet still grieving; Black Widow, focused on Bucky's safety; Sharon Carter, fighting fascism; U.S. Agent, disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend of Bucky's. Other members remain a surprise.

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases: "That's a complicated question…readers will have to find out in issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

Doomstrike features the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts, most of whom now side with Emperor Doom. A clash between the two teams is inevitable.

Kelly highlights the return of the original Thunderbolts and the exploration of redemption for villains. Lanzing explains that Doom, not Bucky, is using the Thunderbolts name, calling them his "Fulgar Victoris." The question is why they're organizing and why Bucky is the primary target.

Songbird, caught between loyalty to her old and new teams, will play a pivotal role. Kelly describes her return as excited and ready to help Bucky, but the conflict will deeply affect her.

Kelly and Lanzing's work on Bucky spans several years, including Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty and Captain America: Cold War. Doomstrike serves as the culmination of their "Revolution Saga," making it essential for fans of their previous work. Lanzing confirms: "It's the grand finale for our work on Bucky."

Finally, they address the upcoming Thunderbolts movie: Kelly believes Doomstrike will appeal to MCU viewers, particularly those familiar with Bucky, Natasha's relationship with Bucky, and the machinations of Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine. The story offers a terrifying introduction to one of Marvel's greatest villains, hoping to draw readers into the world of Marvel comics.

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #1 releases February 19, 2025. Learn more about Marvel's 2025 plans and their most anticipated comics.