San Diego Comic-Con are known for their earth-shaking announcements – but nobody saw this one coming. The so-anticipated Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) franchise’s newest blockbuster, originally named “Avengers: The Kang Dynasty,” got a sudden makeover. Say goodbye to The Kang Dynasty and hello to the Avengers: Doomsday, where all will be served a massive dose of Doctor Doom. But there’s more — our beloved Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr., would be stepping into the shoes of Doom. You’d be forgiven for asking – wait, in Tony Stark’s voice, WHAT?!?!

Disney is playing it smart, however. As they flip the narrative, they’re grounding it with a near and dear crew. The tried-and-true directorial duo, Joe, and Anthony Russo, are returning for Doomsday and Secret Wars, while the seasoned Stephen McFeely is on board to work his magic on their scripts.

The announcement of Robert Downey Jr as Doom packs in even more shock. Seems the multiverse isn’t just a concept anymore, as everyone braces up for the surreal sight of the suave Tony Stark in the garb of Doctor Doom. Whether he’s a Stark from another Earth or just a surreal surprise, only the film will unfold.

Disney had a bit of a situation last December, when Jonathan Majors, a significant actor in their roster, was shown the door following his domestic violence conviction. Fans were left speculating whether Marvel would recast his role or switch the villain of Avengers 5. So, the announcement of Downey as Doctor Doom signals a firm diversion from speculation to stinging shock for the franchise’s fans.

San Diego Comic-Con saw Marvel declaring with confidence that the Russo Brothers are back to strut their stuff. Guess, Marvel vouched for old hands to navigate through the twisty journey. The co-directors of Captain America: Civil War, Infinity War, and Endgame are officially set to bring more of their superhero panache.

With directorial positions firmed, the scripting job lands on Michael Waldron’s desk. The Loki creator is tasked with cranking out the screenplay for Avengers: Blank, along with the Secret Wars. Rumor has it that these two films might collectively parade more than 60 characters. Now, that’s even more than Infinity War and Endgame, a challenge that only familiar hands can juggle around.

With the revelation of Downey’s transition from Iron Man to Doctor Doom, the curiosity now revolves around how Earth’s mightiest heroes will tackle him. As fans’ anticipation soars, we’re all poised for a smashing roller coaster of a spectacle.