Avengers: Doomsday Teaser Sparks Mixed Reactions Over Ant-Man's Captain America Joke

Marvel Studios' latest promotional teaser for Avengers: Doomsday has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with Paul Rudd 's Ant-Man fumbling over the Captain America title and Chris Evans ' return as Steve Rogers emerging as key talking points.

Released during the World Series broadcast, the preview offers glimpses of the upcoming superhero film while keeping its central plot under wraps. One of its most discussed moments features Scott Lang, played by Rudd, struggling to address Captain America when Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie, are both part of the conversation.

While some fans welcomed the lighthearted exchange as a humorous nod to the franchise's past, others criticised the joke, arguing that it could be interpreted as dismissive of Sam Wilson's position as the current Captain America.

The teaser also features Evans as Steve Rogers, sporting longer hair, a fuller beard and civilian clothing. Another notable moment shows Steve with Thor's hammer, Mjolnir, as Thor, played by Chris Hemsworth, observes him. Their brief exchange has fuelled speculation about Steve's return and his ability to wield the enchanted weapon.

The promotional footage also includes glimpses of Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom and characters from Marvel's wider superhero universe, including the Fantastic Four. The video was tailored for the baseball broadcast, blending superhero footage with appearances by Major League Baseball players.

However, the preview has also drawn criticism from viewers who expected more previously unseen footage after anticipation built around its release. Others welcomed Marvel's decision to reveal little about the storyline ahead of the film's theatrical debut.

Directed by Joe and Anthony Russo, Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled to release in theatres on December 18, 2026. Downey's casting as Doctor Doom and Evans' return as Steve Rogers have made the film one of Marvel's most closely watched upcoming releases.