Hell's forces now answer to Doctor Doom as Marvel gives him a title before Doomsday, biggest in 64 years
Doom Takes Mephisto’s Throne
In Captain America #16, written by Chip Zdarsky and drawn by Valerio Schiti, Doom forces Mephisto to give up his throne. The confrontation follows an earlier effort by Doom and Captain America to encourage a revolt in Mephisto’s dimension.
Doom uses trickery to weaken the demon, then makes a deal that gives him rule over Hell. Captain America is horrified by the outcome, but Doom uses his new position to free Valeria’s soul and cancel Mephisto’s contracts.
A Rivalry With Deep Roots
Doom’s history with Mephisto reaches back to his mother, a powerful magic user whom the demon kidnapped and imprisoned in his realm. Doom studied magic in hopes of breaking through the barrier between worlds and rescuing her.
Although Doom eventually freed his mother, the rescue began a lasting feud with Mephisto. He later continued pursuing schemes of conquest rather than turning permanently toward good.
Power With a Purpose
Doom’s decision to void Mephisto’s deals has consequences that are expected to affect the Marvel Universe for months. The story portrays the move not simply as an act of kindness, but also as a way to further weaken Mephisto.
With Mephisto incapacitated and unable to resist, Doom now commands Hell’s armies. The demons could become a new force at his disposal, potentially taking the place of his Doombots.
A Major Status Quo Shift
Doom has long combined scientific skill with mastery of magic, setting him apart from villains who focused on one or the other. His latest role expands that reach, placing him over Hell as well as Latveria.
The change comes as Doom is set to make his MCU debut in Avengers: Doomsday. His control of Hell may give him resources to pursue his enemies and seek to retake Latveria, though what follows remains uncertain.
Key points
- Doctor Doom takes control of Hell after forcing Mephisto to surrender his throne.
- Doom frees Valeria’s soul and voids Mephisto’s contracts.
- Doom’s new rule gives him command of Hell’s armies.
- The major status quo change arrives ahead of his MCU debut in Avengers: Doomsday.