A new Thunderbolts* theory suggests that Sentry’s dark alter ego, the Void, may have unknowingly triggered the arrival of a major Doctor Strange villain. The theory links the Void’s realm to the Nightmare Dimension, setting up Nightmare’s long-delayed MCU debut as a villain in Doctor Strange 3.
New Thunderbolts* theory suggests Nightmare will be Doctor Strange 3’s villain
Marvel Studios’ Thunderbolts* introduced Lewis Pullman’s Sentry and revealed the emergence of his dark counterpart, the Void. The film’s final battle showed the Void transporting individuals to a metaphysical realm filled with their darkest memories.
According to the theory, this realm’s nature may connect directly to Nightmare’s Nightmare World, potentially setting up Nightmare as the main antagonist in Doctor Strange 3.
In Marvel Comics, the Void is a separate evil entity with immense power. However, the MCU reimagines it as a manifestation of Robert Reynolds’ trauma. Victims trapped in the Void’s realm experience regret-based psychological loops rather than physical attacks. This design aligns closely with Nightmare’s abilities, who rules the Nightmare World, a dimension formed by the fears of all sentient beings and fueled by unconscious minds.
Director Scott Derrickson originally planned to introduce Nightmare as the villain in Doctor Strange (2016), but Marvel Studios reportedly scrapped the idea. However, Multiverse of Madness retained some related concepts, including the idea that dreams serve as windows into alternate realities. After the Void consumed New York in Thunderbolts*, the surge of fear energy may have drawn Nightmare’s attention, setting the stage for his potential arrival in Doctor Strange 3.
The MCU can use this connection to reintroduce Sentry. Bob Reynolds suppresses his powers to keep the Void contained. Placing him in the Dream Dimension would let him use his full strength without endangering Earth. There, Sentry could face his deepest fears made real, giving him a chance to confront his trauma and weaken the Void’s influence.
This arc would echo Doctor Strange’s failed attempt to save Wanda Maximoff in Multiverse of Madness. By helping Bob heal while battling Nightmare, Strange could redeem himself and prevent another hero’s fall, this time with lasting success.
Originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype.
