The upcoming film Avengers: Doomsday is shaping up to be a major event in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), drawing inspiration from the Avengers vs. X-Men comic storyline. This narrative traditionally depicted the clash between Earth’s Mightiest Heroes and the most formidable defenders of mutantkind, primarily spurred by the return of the Phoenix Force. Yet, it seems the MCU is set to take this conflict to a new level, highlighting battles between the Avengers and X-Men across the multiverse as they strive to preserve their realities—a premise that promises spectacular confrontations that fans eagerly anticipate.
Marvel Studios recently hosted a significant livestream event unveiling a substantial cast for Avengers: Doomsday, confirming 27 actors, including seven from the original Fox X-Men series. This leads many to speculate that more characters may join the fray, creating an exhilarating landscape for some titanic showdowns between these iconic Marvel teams. Below, we outline the most anticipated Avengers vs. X-Men battles I hope to witness in this upcoming cinematic epic, showcasing both confirmed characters and those I hope to see included as the film’s release approaches.
1. Captain America vs. Cyclops
A Clash of Commanders
The idea of seeing Sam Wilson don the mantle of Captain America facing off against Scott Summers, a.k.a. Cyclops, is thrilling. After the events of Captain America: Brave New World, it appears Sam is poised to lead a new Avengers team. The prospect of these two strong leaders clashing—particularly a scenario where Captain America blocks Cyclops’ optic blasts with his legendary shield—could provide a breathtaking visual experience.
2. Black Panther vs. Gambit
Kinetic Energy Showdown
Excitement is palpable with Channing Tatum reprising his role as Gambit in Avengers: Doomsday following his appearance in Deadpool & Wolverine. Gambit’s knack for charging objects with kinetic energy could create a magnificent encounter with Shuri’s Black Panther, whose vibranium suit can absorb and redirect kinetic force. The potential for spectacular visuals if these characters face off is immense.
3. Invisible Woman vs. Mystique
A Clash of Powers
With Vanessa Kirby and Rebecca Romijn confirmed to portray The Invisible Woman and Mystique, this match-up is particularly tantalizing. The combination of Sue Storm’s ability to turn invisible and create force fields versus Mystique’s shapeshifting powers promises captivating interactions that could steal the spotlight in the film.
4. Sentry vs. Professor Xavier
The Mind vs. The Power
Lewis Pullman’s Sentry is set to appear in Avengers: Doomsday, and with the darker aspects of his persona likely impacting him, Patrick Stewart’s Professor Xavier may play a crucial role in combating this struggle. Xavier could potentially devise a way to help Sentry manage his darker half, echoing his efforts with Jean Grey and the Phoenix Force.
5. Iron Man/Doctor Doom vs. Magneto
Facing Magneto’s Might
Robert Downey Jr.’s rumored portrayal of a dark Iron Man variant or Doctor Doom adds an incredible twist to the narrative. If this speculation holds, witnessing this character strategize against Ian McKellen’s Magneto—a master of magnetism—who could alter the battle very dynamically, promises to be a thrilling sight.
6. Red Guardian & M’Baku vs. Beast
A Battle of Titans
The potential for an all-out fight featuring David Harbour’s Red Guardian and Winston Duke’s M’Baku taking on the cunning Beast (Kelsey Grammer) is genuinely exciting. The combination of brute strength and intellectual prowess from Beast could lead to a riveting encounter on screen.
7. Thor vs. Storm
Rivalry of Thunder
The face-off imagined between Chris Hemsworth’s Thor and Storm, depicted by Halle Berry, encapsulates what fans hope to witness: a titanic struggle over control of thunder itself. This duality promises high stakes and visual spectacle.
8. Human Torch vs. Iceman
Epic Fire vs. Ice Showdown
The dynamic between fire and ice can create a classic contrast, especially if Joseph Quinn’s Human Torch goes head-to-head with Shawn Ashmore’s Iceman. This duel not only presents action-packed sequences but also hints at character development and eventual alliances in the face of greater threats.
9. Spider-Man vs. Nightcrawler
Acrobatics and Anticipation
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man bringing his spider-sense to a fight against Alan Cumming’s Nightcrawler, who uses teleportation, would showcase fascinating strategies. The agility of both characters promises an exhilarating display of combat choreography.
10. Winter Soldier vs. Wolverine
The Ultimate Reckoning
The narrative value of pitting Sebastian Stan’s Winter Soldier against Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, both characters with traumatic histories of being transformed into living weapons, offers dramatic potential. Their mutual struggles and eventual collisions could resonate deeply with audiences.
11. Thing (and/or Hulk) vs. Colossus
Strength Unleashed
The stage is set for a monumental clash of titans in Avengers: Doomsday, particularly with Ebon Moss-Bachrach’s The Thing and potentially Mark Ruffalo’s Hulk facing off against Colossus. The sheer force generated by these iconic powerhouses would be a spectacle to behold, shaking the very foundations of the MCU.
Mark your calendars! Avengers: Doomsday is slated for release on May 1, 2026.