The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has experienced many jaw-dropping moments, yet the demise of Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man left us totally heartbroken. However, here we are, brimming with sensational theories that could pave the way for Tony Stark’s long-awaited return as Iron Man.
Why is he so adored? That is not a question to ask; we saw Tony Stark/Iron Man transform into a magnificent hero from a conceited genius, philanthropist, and billionaire playboy. The CEO of Stark Industries makes a heroic sacrifice in Avengers: Endgame to save the universe by removing the Infinity Stones from Thanos’ Infinity Gauntlet while defeating the villain and his army.
The effects of Iron Man’s deeds are still being felt, and the news of Phase 6’s Avengers: Secret Wars (2027) has only stoked numerous theories about how Iron Man might make a comeback to this interconnected universe. In this article, we will look at these clever theories that brilliantly set up RDJ’s Iron Man comeback.
1. As a Kang Variant or Kang’s Soldier
As comic book readers may know, Kang the Conqueror is the one who constructs the ‘Thor Corps’, or you may call it an army of Thor in the Marvel comics. This army is made up of people just like Thor—people who can wield Mjolnir, his powerful hammer. Expectedly, taking up the Mjolnir, an alternate Iron Man enlists in the Thors Corps to battle for none other than Kang.
Therefore, it should come as no surprise to the heroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe who were allied with Iron Man that they would now be facing off against this other Iron Man, also known as Iron Hammer. This might be a fascinating and fun way to reintroduce Tony Stark to the Marvel Cinematic Universe in a different version.
Imagine a thrilling ideological battle as Iron Man is torn between his heroism and the temptations of Kang’s vision of a new world order.
2. Iron Man’s Return as an Artificial Intelligence
The most intriguing possibility is probably that RDJ might not don the iconic armor while Iron Man makes a comeback. Alternatively, Tony Stark could make a comeback as an AI, either as a highly developed A.I. system or as his digital consciousness incorporated into the Iron Man armor.
This will not be the first time Tony has used artificial intelligence, though; during his time in the MCU, he made considerable use of them, as evidenced by J.A.R.V.I.S. (Just a Rather Very Intelligent System) and F.R.I.D.A.Y. (Female Replacement Intelligent Digital Assistant Youth).
He even left one for Peter to use, E.D.I.T.H., which was initially shown in Spider-Man: Far From Home. Given that Tony left a holographic message for his daughter Morgan Stark in Avengers: Endgame, indicating that he expected to die in the film, it would not be shocking if he also left an A.I. backup of himself.
This concept would allow RDJ to portray Iron Man while also exploring a new dynamic between technology and human emotions. Witnessing a digital Tony Stark mentor the next generation of heroes might open the door to a bittersweet but incredibly satisfying storyline.
3. Time Travel is The Easiest Way to make Iron Man’s Return
The possibility of resurrecting characters was greatly expanded upon with the introduction of time travel in Avengers: Endgame. Most notable in the history of the franchise is undoubtedly the use of time travel in the 2019 flick, after Thanos snapped his fingers and wiped out half the universe’s population.
The Time Heist was created by the heroes who escaped Thanos’ snap, and since the rules governing time travel in the MCU are not entirely clear-cut, it is possible that Iron Man could be brought back to life using it.
Given Iron Man’s brilliant intellect and determination, it is not too farfetched to imagine Tony returning with a master plan to undo the consequences of his sacrifice. Imagine the emotional rollercoaster that would await us as we watched Iron Man triumphantly return.
4. A Fourth Infinity Gauntlet Snap Could Undo His Death
How did each of the Infinity Stones contribute to Thanos’ snap in Avengers: Infinity War? With the power of all elemental crystals, Josh Brolin’s character, Thanos, was able to quickly accomplish his goal of wiping out half of life in the universe. As more information about the Infinity Stones has been released throughout the MCU, Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame see Thanos’ attempt to wipe out half of all life in the universe and the Avengers’ attempt to undo the snap.
Six Infinity Stones are used thrice in the series: first when Thanos snaps half of the universe away, second when Smart Hulk brings back all the dusted people, and third time when Tony Stark sacrifices himself to kill off Thanos and his army. Despite Tony Stark giving his all to save the world, a bold theory posits that his untimely demise could be prevented with a fourth Infinity Gauntlet snap.
The possibility of Robert Downey Jr.’s Iron Man return has sent ripples of excitement across the Marvel fan base. While Tony Stark’s death proved to be a major loss, these clever theories surrounding Avengers: Secret Wars suggest that there might still be hope for his return. The possibilities are endless, whether it is through time travel, collaborating with Kang the Conqueror, or even becoming an Artificial Intelligence.
As we eagerly await the announcement of Marvel’s grand plans, one thing is certain: Iron Man’s legacy will continue to inspire and shape the Marvel Cinematic Universe for years to come.
The release date of Avengers: Secret Wars is set for May 7, 2027.
