5 X-Men Who Could Be the New “Iron Man” of the MCU’s Mutant Saga

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The Marvel Cinematic Universe has been struggling to establish a new overarching villain after plans for Kang fell through. To get back on track, Marvel Studios decided to introduce a reliably popular character: Doctor Doom. Surprisingly, they’ve cast Robert Downey Jr., best known as Iron Man, in the role. Early indications from the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday suggest this was a good move, as fans are already very excited about Doom’s debut.

It’s unlikely Robert Downey Jr. committed to a lengthy new contract. He’s probably starring in the next two Avengers films to give Marvel time to prepare for his departure. When he’s finished, someone new will need to take over the role. Luckily, Marvel has plenty of options, and here are five X-Men who could become the next Iron Man in the MCU’s mutant storyline.

5) Cyclops

Cyclops, the leader of the X-Men, is a strong candidate to become the next major character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Rumors suggest the MCU will soon explore the ‘Mutant Saga,’ focusing on Cyclops and his family, which feels like a natural progression. Cyclops has a rich backstory in the comics, detailing his development as a leader and his ability to make difficult decisions. Plus, the previous X-Men films from Fox didn’t fully explore his potential, leaving plenty of room for his character to grow in the MCU.

4) Professor X

Many on the team may not realize it, but Tony Stark is the central figure keeping the Avengers united in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He’s the one who steps up and makes difficult decisions, a skill Professor X understands well. While Professor X appears to be a simply wise mentor, he’s capable of compromising his own principles to protect those he cares about, like when he intervened with Jean Grey’s mind to control the Phoenix Force. Like Iron Man, Professor X isn’t perfect and sometimes makes errors in judgment.

3) Jean Grey

Tony Stark is a compelling character because he changes throughout his story. He begins as a self-centered billionaire, but transforms when he understands he can use his resources to help others. Jean Grey is quite different, preferring to avoid conflict and focus on her studies. But, due to her immense power, she’s drawn into becoming a vital part of the X-Men. The Marvel Cinematic Universe could develop Jean Grey in a similar way, allowing her eventual sacrifice to resonate as powerfully as Tony Stark’s.

2) Wolverine

I’ve always loved Hugh Jackman as Wolverine – he was Wolverine for so many years, carrying those X-Men movies and getting his own trilogy! It’s easy to see why; he’s such a compelling character, a bit of a loner who eventually finds his place as a leader. Honestly, with Marvel being a little cautious with big changes right now, bringing Wolverine into the MCU feels like a safe bet, and he could really lead the whole mutant storyline. But, realistically, I know they’ll probably need to find a younger actor to take on the role eventually, which is a little sad to think about.

1) Iceman

The first four characters on this list are obvious choices – they’re some of Marvel’s most famous mutants. While Iron Man surprisingly became incredibly popular, another character has the potential to do the same. Bobby Drake is often overlooked because his powers aren’t flashy, but he’s an incredibly powerful mutant with a likable personality. If the movies just let him shine, audiences will quickly embrace him.

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2025-11-27 23:17