Advertisement
Marvel fans, brace yourselves—because the rumor mill is buzzing again, and this time, it’s got a plot twist no one saw coming.
As we inch closer to Avengers: Doomsday (dropping May 1, 2025), fans are deep-diving into theories like it’s 2018 again. But here’s the kicker: Robert Downey Jr. might return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe—not as Tony Stark, but as Victor Von Doom. Yep, you read that right.
While it might sound wild at first, the theory actually makes a lot of sense—especially if you’re familiar with a lesser-known comic arc called Infamous Iron Man (2016), written by Brian Michael Bendis with art by Alex Maleev.
Here’s the rundown: After Civil War II in the comics, Tony Stark ends up in a coma. In a shocking turn, Doctor Doom, one of the most dangerous villains in Marvel history, decides to step up—not to conquer the world, but to become the new Iron Man. And not just for clout—he’s genuinely trying to redeem himself. He wants to carry on Stark’s legacy with honor and integrity.
Let’s just take that in for a moment: Victor Von Doom as Iron Man.
It’s a fascinating and morally complex storyline. Doom—infamous for his ruthless ambition and god-tier intellect—shifts gears completely. He uses his mind, not to dominate, but to heal and fix what he’s broken. But of course, not everyone buys it. People still see him as the villain, and he constantly battles public distrust while trying to prove that he’s changed.
Now imagine this story arc brought to life in the MCU—with Robert Downey Jr. playing Doctor Doom. Not only would that send fans into an emotional spiral, but it would also deliver one of the boldest character flips in superhero movie history.
It’s a risky move, sure. But it also opens up a ton of storytelling possibilities, especially with the multiverse now in play. Could Tony Stark and Victor Von Doom be different versions of the same soul? Could one be the redemption arc of the other? Marvel loves its layers.
And let’s not forget—Robert Downey Jr. has been teasing a return in one way or another. But no one expected it to be like this.
Whether it’s just fan theory fuel or a low-key spoiler, we’ll have to wait until Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters to find out. Until then, let the speculation games begin.