Spoiler Alert! This article contains major spoilers for Captain America: Brave New World. Proceed with caution if you haven’t watched the film yet.
A New Hulk Emerges in the Marvel Universe
Marvel Studios’ latest blockbuster, Captain America: Brave New World, delivers high-stakes action, political intrigue, and a jaw-dropping post-credits scene that teases what’s next for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film follows Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) as he navigates the responsibilities of being the new Captain America, but his biggest challenge yet comes in the form of President Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross (Harrison Ford), who undergoes a terrifying transformation.
Ross, alongside world leaders, is close to signing a treaty concerning Adamantium, a rare and powerful element discovered in the remnants of a Celestial from Eternals. However, chaos erupts when Isaiah Bradley (Carl Lumbly) and Secret Service agents are mind-controlled into an assassination attempt on Ross. The mastermind? None other than Samuel Sterns (Tim Blake Nelson), also known as “The Leader,” a gamma-powered villain who has been secretly influencing global politics.
The Explosive Ending: Red Hulk vs. Captain America
As Captain America foils Sterns’ plans to ignite World War III, the villain executes a final, devastating move—triggering Ross’s long-dormant gamma radiation exposure. During a televised press conference, Ross, enraged by leaked evidence of his secret dealings, transforms into the Red Hulk, unleashing destruction on the White House.
In an intense battle that shakes Washington, D.C., Sam struggles to match the brute strength of Red Hulk. However, rather than relying on sheer force, Captain America ultimately subdues Ross through sheer will and diplomacy. The film ends with Ross imprisoned in The Raft, the high-security underwater prison first introduced in Captain America: Civil War.
Post-Credits Scene: A Dark Future Looms
Marvel fans know that the real surprises often come after the credits roll, and Brave New World is no exception. In the post-credits scene, Sterns—having once again evaded capture—appears in a hidden laboratory, communicating with a shadowy figure. He warns that Ross’s downfall is only the beginning, hinting at an even greater threat rising in the MCU.
Could this be the long-awaited introduction of Doctor Doom or the emergence of another villain connected to the X-Men universe? With Adamantium now a focal point in the MCU, this scene could set the stage for Marvel’s future projects, including Thunderbolts and Fantastic Four.
Bucky Barnes Returns—And Prepares for ‘Thunderbolts’
A welcome cameo in Brave New World is Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan), who appears in a crucial moment to support Sam Wilson. As the Winter Soldier, Bucky helps Sam navigate his internal struggles, reinforcing why Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) chose Sam to be the next Captain America—not for his physical strength, but for his integrity and heart.
Bucky’s presence in the film sets the stage for the upcoming Thunderbolts movie, where he will take on a central role. Fans can expect Thunderbolts to continue the themes of government manipulation, redemption, and the gray areas of heroism.
What’s Next for the MCU?
With Captain America: Brave New World introducing Red Hulk, teasing Thunderbolts, and setting up a mysterious new antagonist, Marvel is clearly building toward something big. Whether it’s the rise of mutants, the return of Hydra, or an even greater cosmic threat, the MCU’s future has never been more exciting.
What did you think of the post-credits scene? Let us know in the comments!
