Thunderbolts Strike: Essential Role in Marvel's "One World Under Doom"

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 world emperor. This narrative unfolds in Ryan North and R.B. Silva's "One World Under Doom" miniseries and numerous tie-in titles. A crucial 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 solicitation hints at a thrilling conflict: "Bucky, Songbird, Sharon Carter, and the Midnight Angels devise a daring plan to target Doom's vibranium supply. However, they face an unexpected obstacle – THE THUNDERBOLTS?! It's THUNDERBOLTS VS. THUNDERBOLTS!"

The slideshow below showcases the preview. Read on for insights from Kelly and Lanzing, including how this series culminates a years-long Bucky Barnes storyline.

Thunderbolts: Doomstrike #3 Exclusive Preview Gallery

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Is Bucky Barnes Responsible for Emperor Doom's Rise?

"Thunderbolts: Doomstrike" builds upon Kelly and Lanzing's 2023 "Thunderbolts" relaunch. This relaunch introduced a new team, led by Bucky Barnes, tasked with confronting major Marvel villains using any means necessary. Their victories against Hydra and the Kingpin, however, unintentionally paved the path for Doom's ascension.

Lanzing explains, "Bucky neutralized the Red Skull, Kingpin's finances, and the American Kaiju. This left Hydra leaderless, the criminal underworld defunded, and the US Government without its primary deterrent. While intended to improve the world, it inadvertently empowered Victor Von Doom, whom Bucky used as a tool to eliminate the Red Skull. One doesn't weaponize Victor Von Doom without facing repercussions."

Kelly reveals that their initial "Thunderbolts" storyline, "Worldstrike," was always meant to lead to a Doom-focused sequel. North's company-wide Doom-centric crossover event was a fortunate coincidence.

Kelly states, "Planning the sequel, we learned about the new Marvel Universe status quo: 'One World Under Doom.' Ryan North's work revealed that Bucky's manipulation of Doom was a key catalyst for Doom's rise to power. This new 'Thunderbolts' mission isn't just a fight against evil; it's a judgment of Bucky's decisions. 'Doomstrike' is Bucky's chance at redemption, but it will push him to his limits."

Bucky's Guilt and the Thunderbolts' Motivations

Bucky's guilt over his role in 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.

Kelly says, "Bucky's guilt, from his Winter Soldier days or Outer Circle missions, has weighed him down. Just when he thought he could move on, he's burdened with the responsibility of Doom's rise. Doom understands this and will exploit his guilt. After the first issue, that weight will intensify, and even his metal arm might not save him."

Lanzing adds about the other Thunderbolts, "They have varied motivations. Songbird joins out of loyalty to Bucky and her heroic spirit. She's hurting from the loss of Abner Jenkins (MACH-X), adding a reckless edge. Black Widow prioritizes Bucky's safety, their romance recently rekindled. Destroyer is already on a mission. Sharon Carter combats fascism. U.S. Agent is disillusioned by his country's submission to Doom. Ghost Rider '44, an old friend of Bucky's, re-enters the fray. We'll keep some members a surprise, but each has reasons to oppose Doom or worry for Bucky."

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

Thunderbolts vs. Thunderbolts

A major draw of "Doomstrike" is the return of the original 1997 Thunderbolts lineup. While Songbird sides with Bucky, most of her former teammates align with Emperor Doom. Issue #3's cover depicts the inevitable clash.

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

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

Songbird's position is pivotal. Torn between loyalty to her old and new teammates, her struggle will be central.

Kelly says, "Melissa returns, ready to help Bucky. But her history with the other Thunderbolts, now serving Doom, will break her heart. The Thunderbolts are her world, and dealing with this will deeply affect her."

The Culmination of a Bucky Barnes Storyline

Kelly and Lanzing have worked with Bucky for years, even beyond their "Thunderbolts" run. Bucky was key to their "Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty" series and "Captain America: Cold War" crossover. "Doomstrike" is the culmination of their Bucky storyline.

Lanzing teases, "This is our final Bucky Barnes story for a while. We've been telling the 'Revolution Saga' since 'Devil's Reign: Winter Soldier,' continuing through 'Captain America: Sentinel of Liberty,' 'Captain America: Cold War,' and 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike.' Bucky discovered his origins, clashed with his friend, found love, and adopted a new identity as the Revolution – but it all culminates here. Fans of our previous work shouldn't miss this. It's the grand finale, and we're giving it our all."

Connecting with the MCU

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

Kelly says, "MCU Bucky fans will find our Bucky familiar, at least initially. While details differ, this story shows why Contessa Valentina Allegra de la Fontaine is such a threat. For Bucky and Natasha fans, their romance is central. With Doom's upcoming MCU appearance, this story and 'One World Under Doom' offer a terrifying introduction to one of Marvel's greatest villains. We hope that when movie fans seek more, 'Thunderbolts: Worldstrike' and 'Doomstrike' will draw them into the world of Marvel comics."

Which new comic are you most excited to read in 2025?

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