In a shocking move, Marvel’s One World Under Doom event just ended by killing off Doctor Doom. The consequences will ripple outwards for months if not years, but just as interesting as Doom’s death is who finally brought down Marvel’s ultimate villain.
The Living Tribunal Just Killed Off Doctor Doom
One World Under Doom #9 picks up with the tragic death of Valeria Richards, daughter of Reed Richards and Sue Storm, and goddaughter of Doctor Doom. Last issue, Doctor Doom accidentally killed Valeria during his battle against Marvel’s heroes, and was horrified to realize he’d ended the life of the one person he truly loved.
One World Under Doom #9 comes from Ryan North, Steve Orlando, Bernard Chang, R. B. Silva, David Curiel, Ruth Redmond and Travis Lanham.
This issue, Doctor Doom travels beyond reality to consult with the Living Tribunal – the embodiment of cosmic justice and the natural order of the multiverse. Sensing Doom’s sincere love for Valeria – something that seemed impossible for someone so selfish – the Living Tribunal grants his request to return her to life.
However, the cost is steep. Doctor Doom loses his hold on the planet, his powers as Sorcerer Supreme, and ultimately his life. Doom survives long enough for one last conversation with Reed Richards, leaving behind a last will and testament that’s set to throw the Marvel Universe into chaos. Now, because this death was carried out by the Living Tribunal, there is seemingly no force short of the One Above All who can reverse it.
Our Take on Doctor Doom’s Death
One World Under Doom had to end with Doctor Doom’s defeat, but the creative team have shocked fans by having it come from an act of sacrifice. As evil and power-hungry as Doom is, it turns out the Fantastic Four managed to redeem their nemesis in one small way, giving him a true, honest connection with their daughter. It’s a perfect ending for the villain, proving his power and evil while also revealing the spark of humanity that still remains within him.
Like any good event, One World Under Doom also sets up multiple new stories. Latveria is now without a ruler, leading into the Weapons of Armageddon crossover where various heroes will battle for its future. Doom’s last will and testament sets a challenge to unlock a so-far-unknown treasure, while Scarlet Witch steals the Eye of Agamotto to set herself up as the new Sorcerer Supreme. It’s also very unlikely that Valeria will allow ‘Uncle Doom’ to simply die in her place, meaning that one of Marvel’s smartest heroes will now take on the will of the second most powerful being in Marvel lore, the Living Tribunal.
Finally, Doom admits to Reed that he isn’t done trying to take over the world, and that he now understands that wiping out superhumans must be his first step, not his last. It will likely be a significant amount of time until fans see Doctor Doom again, but when they do, the heroes who stood against him will be in his crosshairs.
One World Under Doom #9 is available now from Marvel Comics.