The episode showcases Killmonger’s brilliance as a tactician. Unlike other villains who rely on brute force, he wins through geopolitical maneuvering and playing his enemies against each other.
After returning to the U.S., Tony rewards Killmonger by making him the new , replacing Obadiah Stane . Killmonger quickly manipulates Tony into building a fleet of automated combat drones using vibranium —which Killmonger "acquires" through a black-market deal with Ulysses Klaue .
This episode of Marvel Studios’ , titled "What If... Killmonger Rescued Tony Stark?" , reimagines the foundational events of the Marvel Cinematic Universe by altering the catalyst of the first Iron Man film. The Divergence Point What If 2021 S01E06.mkv
Like many episodes in the series, the story ends on a cliffhanger, suggesting a brewing resistance led by the younger generation (Shuri). Cast and Production
To fuel the conflict, Killmonger orchestrates a confrontation between the U.S. military and . He kills James Rhodes , Black Panther (T'Challa) , and eventually Tony Stark himself, framing the Wakandans for the murders. This allows Killmonger to return to his ancestral home of Wakanda as a "hero" who has "avenged" T'Challa and killed the American invaders. By the end of the episode, he successfully consumes the Heart-Shaped Herb and becomes the new Black Panther , while Shuri and Pepper Potts begin to uncover his web of lies. Key Themes Killmonger quickly manipulates Tony into building a fleet
The episode is noted for its darker tone and the high body count of established MCU icons.
The story pivots during the opening scene of the 2008 Iron Man . Instead of being captured by the after the Stark Industries convoy is attacked in Afghanistan, Tony Stark is saved by Erik "Killmonger" Stevens . Because Tony is never taken hostage, he never builds the Mark I armor in a cave, and he never undergoes the moral transformation that turns him into a hero. Plot Summary The Divergence Point Like many episodes in the
voices Tony Stark, effectively capturing the pre-reformation version of the character.