The latest chapter in the MCU has left fans reeling, not from the high-octane action or thrilling new characters, but from an emotional gut-punch no one saw coming. Thunderbolts delivered a shocking revelation that has forever altered the relationship between Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) and Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan). Their once inseparable bond is now fractured, and it’s all centered around a legal dispute over the title of the New Avengers.

The Rise of the New Avengers and the Conflict It Sparked
From the very beginning, Sam and Bucky’s relationship was one of struggle, growth, and ultimately, brotherhood. The duo’s chemistry was one of the highlights of Captain America: The Winter Soldier and its follow-up, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Fans watched as they fought side by side, overcoming their differences and becoming two of the most beloved characters in the MCU.
However, Thunderbolts changed all that. The filmโs end credits scene revealed a stunning twist that turned their friendship upside down. It was confirmed that the anti-heroes from the movie were set to become Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, with Florence Pugh’s Yelena Belova seemingly taking on a leadership role.
But the real shocker came when Anthony Mackieโs Sam Wilson voiced his discontent over the use of the โNew Avengersโ title. His frustration became a legal matter, as Wilson seemingly decided to take legal action against the new team, accusing them of copyright infringement. The once-close friendship between Wilson and Barnes has soured in such a heartbreaking way that fans are left wondering if reconciliation is even possible.
A Bitter Feud: Sam Wilson and Bucky Barnes at Odds
This sudden legal feud is a devastating blow to the hearts of fans who have been rooting for Sam and Bucky for years. The two former soldiers, who fought side by side through countless battles, are now facing off in a courtroom instead of on the battlefield. Itโs a gut-wrenching twist that underscores the complexities of both their characters and their long-running relationship.
As the credits rolled, it became clear that there was no quick resolution to this tension. Buckyโs attempts to reach out to Sam about the matter were unsuccessful, leaving the future of their friendship uncertain. For those hoping for a heartwarming reunion between the two, Thunderbolts has thrown cold water on those dreams, at least for now.

Sam Wilsonโs New Avengers Team and What It Means for the Future
The legal feud isn’t the only unresolved issue left hanging in the aftermath of Thunderbolts. Sam Wilsonโs dissatisfaction with the New Avengers team suggests that heโs gearing up to form his own version of the iconic group. Though the film doesnโt confirm who will be part of his team, speculation is rife. Given the announced cast for Avengers: Doomsday, we can already begin to piece together the roster. Will Wilson’s Avengers differ dramatically from the one Bucky once fought alongside? Time will tell.
The relationship between Sam and Bucky will likely remain a key storyline in the upcoming Avengers: Doomsday, but for now, fans can only wonder how deep this rift will go and if thereโs still a chance for reconciliation. The MCU is known for its emotional roller coasters, and this betrayal adds yet another layer of drama to an already action-packed universe.
Anthony Mackie Talks Avengers: Doomsday
As the MCU moves forward with Avengers: Doomsday, Anthony Mackie is feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia. According to Mackie, the new Avengers installment will bring back that classic Marvel feeling that fans have been missing. In an interview with IGN, Mackie shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming project:
โIโm really excited for what this project is going to be. Itโs going to give the audience that old Marvel feeling that they always had.โ
As Avengers: Doomsday nears, thereโs a sense of anticipation for the return of the Avengers in a way that fans haven’t felt in years. With Mackie leading the charge as Captain America, there’s hope that this new era will recapture the magic of the MCU’s earlier days.
Thunderbolts Sets the Stage for New Adventures
Thunderbolts has received praise from critics and fans alike, with early screenings showing a positive response. The film marks a turning point for the MCU, signaling a return to form after several less-than-stellar releases. As Marvel looks to rebuild its footing in the market, Thunderbolts has set the stage for whatโs to come, with Avengers: Doomsday likely to answer many lingering questions.

But the question of whether Sam and Buckyโs friendship can be mended still hangs in the balance. For now, fans will have to wait and see what the future holds for the duo and the rest of the MCUโs new heroes.