Why Is Doctor Strange Allegedly Teaming Up With Doctor Doom in ‘Avengers Doomsday’?

Marvel fans have been buzzing over a pressing question that transcends box office figures or new trailers. The focus is on Doctor Strange and whether the Sorcerer Supreme has indeed allied with Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom in ‘Avengers: Doomsday’.

Leaked images reportedly depict Benedict Cumberbatch’s character donning metallic armor, complete with a mask that features a slot resembling a third eye. This has ignited fan theories regarding Doctor Strange’s allegiance in the upcoming film.

A significant factor fueling this speculation is Doctor Strange’s noticeable absence from official casting announcements. Cumberbatch has confirmed he is not part of the extensive cast list for ‘Avengers: Doomsday’.

This absence aligns with the conclusion of his storyline. At the end of ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness’, he agreed to assist Clea, portrayed by Charlize Theron, in stopping an Incursion Event he inadvertently caused, stepping through a portal that seemingly led into Dormammu’s domain. If this narrative thread remains unresolved, it could explain his lack of involvement with the Avengers as they prepare for their biggest battle yet.

Reports have also suggested that he might appear in a different role than anticipated. Some outlets have speculated that Cumberbatch could be portraying Boris, a character closely associated with Doctor Doom in the comics, further intensifying the speculation about his character’s involvement in Doom’s plans.

Recently surfaced images add another layer of intrigue. These photos reportedly showcase four of Doctor Doom’s followers, including Boris and the Latverian Witches, each adorned in masks and Doom-inspired outfits. Fans believe these figures hold more significance than mere background characters, with two names frequently mentioned in discussions.

For long-time Marvel Comics readers, this scenario isn’t entirely unexpected. In the original ‘Secret Wars’ storyline, Strange teams up with Doom to prevent a series of incursions from annihilating the Multiverse.

This alliance leads to dramatic developments, culminating in Doom creating Battleworld, crowning himself its God Emperor, and appointing Strange as his right-hand man. Given that ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ is widely believed to be paving the way for an adaptation of this storyline in ‘Avengers Secret Wars’, it makes sense for the filmmakers to position Strange similarly as they head into this conflict.

Leaked concept art appears to support this direction, depicting Strange and Doom together on Battleworld rather than in opposition. This detail has convinced many fans that the theory holds substantial merit rather than being mere speculation.

Additionally, there’s a redemption angle worth considering. Since Strange’s actions instigated an incursion, aligning with Doom could be seen as his attempt to atone for that error.

One circulating theory suggests that Doom may not simply function as a straightforward villain in this film. Instead, he could act as he does in the comics, striving to halt incursions from destroying the multiverse, which positions him in conflict with the MCU’s heroes while his motives remain more complex than mere conquest.

Having someone as trusted as Strange by his side would enhance this narrative, making it resonate more with audiences. Strange has been one of the MCU’s most prominent heroes since his debut in 2016, consistently standing on the side of good. Thus, placing him alongside Doom would significantly bolster the argument that Doom might genuinely believe he is acting for the greater good, at least until ‘Avengers Secret Wars’ reveals that he ultimately miscalculated and Strange turns against him.

This wouldn’t be the first instance of Strange making a morally ambiguous choice for the greater good. He willingly surrendered the Time Stone in ‘Avengers Infinity War’ because he believed it was the only path to eventual victory. If he is convinced that aligning with Doom offers the best chance at saving reality, siding with him could be viewed as another calculated risk rather than outright betrayal.

There’s a strong possibility that fans won’t receive clarity on this matter until the credits roll. One theory posits that Strange may remain absent for most of ‘Avengers Doomsday’, only appearing in a post-credits scene after Doctor Doom seems to triumph in the film’s final moments, thereby setting the stage for ‘Avengers Secret Wars’.

Whether Strange serves as Doom’s secret ally, a captured pawn, or a hero biding his time for the sequel, one thing is evident: Marvel Studios has fans more invested in a single leaked costume than almost anything else related to this release. ‘Avengers Doomsday’ is slated to hit theaters on December 18, 2026.

So, which version of this theory resonates with you? Is Strange genuinely loyal to Doom for the greater good, or is he playing the long game before the real confrontation unfolds in ‘Secret Wars’?