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, claims global dominion. 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," penned by Collin Kelly and Jackson Lanzing, with art by Tommaso Bianchi.

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

The slideshow below showcases this preview. Kelly and Lanzing discuss the series, highlighting its significance as the culmination of a long-running Bucky Barnes storyline.

Exclusive Preview Gallery of Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3

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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 neutralizing major Marvel villains. Their victories, however, inadvertently paved the path for Doom's ascension.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, crippled Kingpin's finances, and removed a key US deterrent. This destabilized Hydra, the criminal underworld, and the US government. While intending to improve the world, he inadvertently empowered Victor Von Doom, used as a pawn to eliminate the Red Skull—a decision he will regret."

Kelly reveals their initial "Thunderbolts" arc, "Worldstrike," was designed to set up a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom crossover was a fortunate coincidence.

"Planning the sequel, we learned of the new Marvel Universe status quo: 'One World Under Doom'," Kelly states. "Ryan North's work utilized Bucky's manipulation of Doom as a catalyst for his rise. This 'Thunderbolts' mission became a judgment on Bucky's choices. 'Doomstrike' offers Bucky a chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."

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

"Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier past or Outer Circle missions, has burdened him," Kelly says. "Just as he thought he could move on, he's burdened with causing Doom's rise. Doom understands this and will weaponize his guilt. The weight will be immense, and Bucky might struggle to cope."

Lanzing adds, "Other Thunderbolts have diverse motivations. Songbird acts out of loyalty and heroism, but also grieves for Abner Jenkins (MACH-X). Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety, given their rekindled romance. Destroyer is already on a mission; Sharon Carter fights fascism; US Agent is disillusioned; and Ghost Rider '44, an old friend, returns. We'll reveal other members later, but each has reason to oppose Doom or worry for Bucky."

Regarding Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, Kelly teases, "Val's role is complex; readers must discover it in issue #1."

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

A key element of "Doomstrike" is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts. While Songbird aligns with Bucky, most of her former comrades side with Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the inevitable conflict.

"We're excited to bring back the original Thunderbolts and pit them against Bucky's team," Kelly says. "From Songbird and Abner's relationship to Citizen V's return, it's an honor to revisit these characters and their core dilemma: is redemption possible for villains?"

Lanzing adds, "It's not Bucky using the name; it's Doom. In Doom's world, heroes are under his control ('Fulgar Victoris'). Why are they organizing? And why is Bucky the primary target?"

Songbird is crucial, torn between loyalty to her old and new teams.

"Melissa returns determined to aid Bucky," Kelly says. "But her history with the other Thunderbolts, serving Doom, will devastate her. The Thunderbolts are her world, and this will deeply affect her."

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

"This is our final Bucky Barnes story for now," Lanzing reveals. "We've been telling the 'Revolution Saga' since 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' continuing through 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty' and 'Captain America: Cold War,' culminating in 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky discovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and became the Revolution. This is the grand finale. Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss it."

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" coincides with the May release of the "Thunderbolts" film. Kelly and Lanzing hope to attract MCU viewers.

"Absolutely," Kelly says. "MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar, at least initially. This story will explain Contessa's threat. For Bucky/Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's MCU prominence, this story and 'One World Under Doom' are a terrifying introduction to a great villain. We hope that movie fans will discover 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike' and the world of Marvel comics."

Which new comic are you most excited to read in 2025? (Poll removed for brevity)

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