A new post-credits scene included in the re-release of Avengers: Endgame, known as Endgame Encore, has raised alarms among fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The sequence shows Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr., seeking out Bruce Banner directly, and his demeanor suggests something more than a simple confrontation ahead of Avengers: Doomsday.
The discovery is particularly relevant now because the film is set to premiere on December 18, 2026, and Marvel Studios has chosen to drop clues about the plot through these additional scenes rather than relying solely on traditional trailers.
Doctor Doom is coming for Bruce Banner
In the scene, the Hulk played by Mark Ruffalo appears in a delicate situation following the events of Spider-Man: Brand New Day. After transforming unexpectedly, Banner decides to go into hiding underground to prevent the incident from happening again.
That isolation is interrupted by the arrival of Victor von Doom, who says a line that has sparked all sorts of theories: "Mr. Banner, I have come to collect you."
The villain does not speak of fighting him or asking for a one-time favor. His tone suggests that he considers Banner a necessary piece for a larger plan, which has led many fans to wonder exactly what he is plotting.
Is he forming his own team?
The theory that has gained traction suggests that Doctor Doom needs to resolve a multiversal crisis and, to do so, power alone is not enough: he requires minds capable of understanding the problem.
Bruce Banner fits that profile. In addition to being the Hulk, he remains one of the most renowned scientific minds in the MCU, which would explain Doom's interest in incorporating him into his plans.
The unsettling part, according to this reading, is that Banner might not be the only name on that list. The Russo brothers, directors of the film, avoided confirming whether more characters are involved when Empire magazine asked them directly. Their response, amidst laughter, was that the question was putting them on the spot, which some interpret as an indirect way of admitting there are more surprises to be revealed.
The possible connection to Spider-Man
Another theory circulating among Marvel fans links this scene to the end of Spider-Man: Brand New Day. Tom Holland has not yet been officially confirmed for Avengers: Doomsday, but the post-credits sequence of his latest film showed the Spidey Tracker application failing just as the Spider-Man icon moved away into space.
That visual glitch is reminiscent of the one that appears in the Endgame Encore scene when Doctor Doom locates Banner, leading to speculation that it could be the same narrative pattern used to indicate that Doom has also found Peter Parker.
If confirmed, it would mean a reunion charged with symbolism between Robert Downey Jr. and Tom Holland, this time with the actor on the opposite side of the one he played as Tony Stark.
The mystery of the witches of Latveria
Promotional material for the film has also shown a group of mysterious witches of Latveria with their faces hidden. Until now, they were interpreted as simple followers of Doom, but the possibility that the villain is recruiting already known characters opens up another interpretation.
Among the names that some fans have linked to these masked figures are Elizabeth Olsen's Scarlet Witch, Clea played by Charlize Theron, Hayley Atwell's Peggy Carter, or Sylvie, the Loki variant played by Sophia Di Martino.
At the moment, there is no official confirmation regarding the identity of these witches, so this part of the theory should be taken with caution.
A villain who could arrive with his own side
If these clues end up being confirmed, Doctor Doom would not appear in Avengers: Doomsday solely as the great antagonist of the Avengers, but as a leader who arrives accompanied by key MCU figures placed at his service.
The question that remains is how many heroes he will have added to his cause before the Avengers discover his intentions. The answer will arrive with the premiere of the film, scheduled for December 18, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Avengers: Endgame Encore post-credits scene show?
The scene shows Doctor Doom, played by Robert Downey Jr., locating Bruce Banner and telling him that he has come to collect him, without clarifying his true intentions.
Why is this scene linked to Spider-Man: Brand New Day?
Because both sequences share the same visual glitch on screens and applications, which some fans interpret as a sign that Doctor Doom has also located Spider-Man.
Is it confirmed that Tom Holland will appear in Avengers: Doomsday?
No. At the moment, his participation in the film has not been officially confirmed by Marvel Studios.
Who could be hiding under the masks of the witches of Latveria?
Among the names suggested by fans are the Scarlet Witch, Clea, Peggy Carter, and Sylvie, although this is speculation without official confirmation.
When does Avengers: Doomsday premiere?
The film will hit theaters on December 18, 2026.
