Doctor Doom vs. Wakanda: Major MCU Theory for Black Panther 3 Uncovered

Recent fan theories surrounding the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) suggest that Marvel Studios may have already laid the groundwork for Doctor Doom to emerge as Wakanda’s ideal adversary in the much-anticipated Black Panther 3. Following the remarkable impact of the original Black Panther in 2018 and the heartfelt themes presented in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022), it appears that director Ryan Coogler is poised to continue exploring the vibrant community of Wakanda and its legacy. As Black Panther 3 progresses through development, hints regarding an engaging storyline rooted in Marvel Comics lore have begun to surface.

In a revealing appearance on The Today Show back in November 2024, the iconic actor Denzel Washington shared news that Ryan Coogler is penning a role for him in Black Panther 3. These statements not only confirmed the sequel’s development but ignited curiosity about the potential narrative directions for the upcoming film. A compelling new theory suggests that the seeds for a gripping storyline have been planted, particularly in light of the cinematic events in Wakanda Forever and the anticipated Phase 6 introduction of Doctor Doom.

How Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and RDJ’s Return Set the Stage for Doomwar

A Prelude to Conflict Over Vibranium in Wakanda Forever

Queen Ramonda before the United Nations in Black Panther Wakanda Forever

The introduction of Wakanda within the MCU unveiled the nation’s vast vibranium resources, standing as a focal point for potential conflict. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever hinted at an impending global struggle involving various nations, notably the United States and France, vying for control over Wakanda’s vibranium. This narrative thread could significantly influence the unfolding plot in Black Panther 3, as highlighted by a thought-provoking theory from Reddit user Robemilak.

Theory: Black Panther 3 could be released between Doomsday and Secret Wars so the MCU could set up its own version of Doomwar storyline, leaving Wakanda vulnerable and unable to help with the future by u/Robemilak in MCUTheories

This theory poignantly identifies the narrative potential of adapting the acclaimed Doomwar storyline from Marvel Comics, originally unveiled in 2010. This plot centers around Doctor Doom orchestrating an invasion of Wakanda with the intent to seize the invaluable vibranium resources. Marvel Studios recently revealed during the 2024 San Diego Comic-Con that Doctor Doom would be introduced into the MCU, with Robert Downey Jr. stepping into the role during the epic Avengers: Doomsday and Secret Wars events, having previously portrayed Iron Man.

Understanding Marvel Comics’ Doomwar and Its Implications

Doctor Doom’s Takeover of Wakanda in the Comics

Marvel’s Doomwar is a six-issue series released from February to August 2010, encapsulating a transformative story that reshaped Wakanda’s future. In this arc, a faction known as the Desturi, desiring to revert Wakanda to its isolationist stance, collaborated with Doctor Doom to seize control of the nation, even placing Queen Ororo Munroe (Storm) on trial. T’Challa and Shuri sought assistance from the X-Men, and while they succeeded in rescuing Storm, they could not prevent Doctor Doom from commandeering Wakanda’s vibranium.

Utilizing the stolen vibranium, Doom set up factories worldwide, developing vibranium-enhanced Doombots and outfitting himself with advanced vibranium armor, firmly establishing himself as a formidable foe. The narrative unfolded spectacularly, culminating in T’Challa activating a device rendering vibranium inert globally, allowing for Doom’s eventual defeat but leaving profound consequences for Wakanda, an intriguing arc to explore within Black Panther 3.

Introducing Exciting New Characters in Black Panther 3’s Doomwar

Marvel’s Doomwar Features Characters Perfectly Suited for the MCU

X-Men with the Dora Milaje in Marvel Comics' Doomwar

While Doctor Doom and the Black Panthers are central to the Doomwar narrative, the storyline also encompasses numerous other Marvel heroes who could make compelling appearances in Black Panther 3. Recently at the November Disney APAC Content Showcase, Marvel head Kevin Feige hinted towards the inclusion of beloved X-Men characters in upcoming MCU entries (according to Deadline). Given that the X-Men play a significant role in the comics, it is reasonable to expect reimagined versions of characters like Storm, Wolverine, and Cyclops to debut in this sequel.

I think you will see that continues in our next few movies with some X-Men players that you might recognize. Right after that, the whole story of
Secret Wars
really leads us into a new age of mutants and of the X-Men. Again, [it’s] one of those dreams come true. We finally have the X-Men back.

Moreover, the Fantastic Four holds a prominent role in the Doomwar saga, meaning that actors like Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach could also be invited to join the MCU in Black Panther 3, following their introduction in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. This film could also serve as an ideal chance to reintegrate Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool into the MCU after Deadpool & Wolverine. By incorporating these dynamic new characters, Black Panther 3 has the potential to become one of the most significant films in the MCU, similar to the crossover spectacle that was Captain America: Civil War.

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