Why Doctor Doom Looks Like Iron Man & 4 More Theories About Avengers: Doomsday’s Villain

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In 2025, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has been gradually hinting at the emergence of its next major antagonist across all its films. The post-credits scene of Captain America: Brave New World subtly suggests this with Samuel Sterns, also known as the Leader, referring to “others” who pose a threat to the multiverse safety. It’s reasonable to assume that Doctor Doom is one of these potential adversaries. The movie Thunderbolts, meanwhile, gives a more direct indication by depicting the Fantastic Four’s arrival on Earth-616 through showing their spaceship fleeing from their original universe. However, The Fantastic Four: First Steps takes it one step further by directly introducing the villain as he enters the Baxter Building to meet Franklin Richards.

As a devoted fan, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the return of none other than Robert Downey Jr., who’s set to rejoin the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the upcoming “Avengers: Doomsday”. The studio has been remarkably tight-lipped about the details, leaving me and many others curious about Victor Von Doom.

The mystery surrounding Doom’s character hasn’t dampened our speculations one bit, especially regarding his striking resemblance to Tony Stark – aka Iron Man. I can’t wait to see how Marvel weaves this intriguing connection into the storyline!

1) Doctor Doom Used the Infinity Stones

The most significant instance for Tony Stark within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) isn’t just revealing himself as Iron Man, but rather utilizing the Nano Gauntlet to effectively eliminate Thanos and his forces in Avengers: Endgame. However, it’s important to note that even the mighty Iron Man couldn’t manage the potency of the Infinity Stones, ultimately meeting his end before his wife and comrades. Yet, as the Multiverse Saga has shown, similar events can transpire in varying manners.

A significant Doomsday hypothesis posits that Doom is actually a Tony Stark alter-ego who survived the encounter with Thanos. Rather than succumbing to his wounds, he sustained multiple scars covering his body, necessitating the constant wearing of a mask. It’s challenging to accept that Iron Man would transition into a life of villainy following the salvation of the universe, yet unexpected events are not unheard of.

2) Tony Stark Was Always a Member of the Doom Family

In other words, the name Victor von Doom carries significant weight, so it’s more probable that the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) opts to utilize it instead of disregarding it entirely, which might appear as a repetition of the Stark narrative. Yet, there’s an opportunity for the franchise to have its advantages and enjoy them simultaneously by tinkering with some family history subtly.

In the film “Endgame,” Howard Stark seems to draw attention to his wife’s pregnancy. A Reddit user speculates that the story could be altered slightly (retcon) by having the Starks adopt a child instead of having one biologically. Tony Stark might then be revealed as Victor von Doom, originating from Latveria. On Earth-616, he may not discover this fact, but in another reality, he could embrace an entirely different destiny.

3) Doctor Doom Stole Tony Stark’s Face

Simplifying things often proves beneficial as it eliminates potential complications. For instance, in the storyline of ‘Doomsday’, an easier explanation for his resemblance to Iron Man would be that he stole the hero’s facial features prior to his arrival on Earth-616.

In every instance, Doom, a man of exceptional intelligence, devises audacious plots to test the boundaries of Marvel Universe’s superheroes. Recognizing that Iron Man serves as an icon for all heroes, Doom considers assuming his likeness to confuse and disrupt the usual dynamics in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

4) Robert Downey Jr. Isn’t Going to Play Doctor Doom

In the realm of comic book films, it’s common practice to conceal certain details. After all, surprises can make viewing experiences more exciting. For instance, remember Robert Downey Jr.’s shocking appearance at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, where he donned the Doctor Doom mask and declared his comeback to the MCU? The actor hinted that he would be portraying a villain this time, but it’s possible he was subtly misleading us.

Since Robert Downey Jr. plays Iron Man exceptionally well, those in power might deceive us about his character’s reappearance in Doomsday, to preserve the surprise. Such a big untruth could lead to significant consequences, but it would be justified if the Marvel Cinematic Universe has an engaging story planned for Iron Man.

5) The Real Doctor Doom Won’t Appear in Avengers: Doomsday

In the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Kang didn’t leave a significant mark, with an impressive debut in Loki but a relatively dull appearance in Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. Nevertheless, it was evident that he demonstrated one crucial point: variants can indeed be a substantial danger, particularly when they unite forces.

A Reddit speculation suggests that Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of Doom might be temporary in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as he may not continue for an extended period. In the upcoming film “Avengers: Secret Wars,” another actor could take over and assume the role of Doom for a longer duration, establishing his rivalry with the Fantastic Four. Given that RDJ might not be agreeing to another multi-picture contract, this scenario would enable Doom’s introduction and potential appearance in a sequel to “First Steps.

Avengers: Doomsday hits theaters on December 18, 2026.

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2025-09-02 15:42