Young Avengers Theory States Mephisto Will Be Its Main Villain

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A new theory suggests Ironheart may have secretly set up the main villain of Marvel’s next team-up series. According to fan speculation, Mephisto’s debut in the Disney+ show isn’t just a standalone moment. It could mark the beginning of a larger arc that positions him as the central villain in the upcomingYoung AvengersorChampionsseries.

Ironheart theory claims Mephisto is set up as villain of Young Avengers series

In Ironheart Episode 6, Sacha Baron Cohen debuts as Mephisto, a long-awaited villain in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Initially believed to be Dormammu, the character clarifies his identity during a scene where he offers Riri Williams a deal to bring back her deceased friend, Natalie. This proposal echoes his earlier deal with Parker Robbins, who received the magical hood from Mephisto in exchange for something he “won’t miss.” Riri accepts Mephisto’s offer, marking her as one of his newest clients.

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The same episode reveals that Mephisto has made similar deals with others, referencing names on the Forbes 100 list and even Ringo Starr. Fans speculate this introduction sets up a larger role for Mephisto in the MCU.

A user on X (formerly Twitter) posted, “Well, what if Mephisto is the villain of the rumored THE CHAMPIONS series? And he tries to get close to Billy and Tommy to manipulate them…” Another fan commented that Mephisto could “send Riri to take Tommy and Billy to him so he can reclaim their souls.”

The Ironheart finale’s events align with comic storylines involving Mephisto and young heroes. In the comics, Mephisto’s son, Blackheart, possesses Riri—an arc now potentially adaptable for the MCU.

Meanwhile, Billy Maximoff (Wiccan) is searching for his brother Tommy, possibly continuing into Vision Quest. Showrunner Chinaka Hodge told TVLine, “Audiences will help make that decision, of what happens next [if any]… So, tune in and show Disney and the MCU that we have a strong fan base for Ironheart.”

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Mephisto’s deal with Riri has fueled theories that he’s the supernatural villain connecting Marvel’s next generation of heroes. Marvel Studios is reportedly developing a Champions Disney+ series, written by Rachna Fruchbom, featuring Kate Bishop, Ms. Marvel, America Chavez, Cassie Lang, Wiccan, and Ironheart. If greenlit, it could debut as early as 2027 or 2028.

All episodes of Ironheart are now streaming on Disney+.