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The new Iron Man series has been off to a start, and where would Tony Stark be without his bestie, James Rhodes, also known as War Machine? 

Thus far, Rhodey hasn't been in the series, but upon looking at the solicit information for Iron Man #7, it looks like War Machine is set to return alongside a longtime Iron Man villain. Take a look at the covers by Ryan Stegman and Dave Rapoza below. 

"After the events of the first arc, Tony Stark has taken on a surprising new role in the Marvel Universe. His allies are wondering what this means for the Avengers…and what in the hell is he building in the Hulk's old gamma base?!" reads Marvel's description of Iron Man #7 by writer Joshua Williamson and artist Von Randal. "Tony’s old buddy James Rhodes, A.K.A. War Machine, pays Tony a visit to investigate! But while Tony and War Machine catch up…an old Iron Man rogue returns with a CRACK!"

So which villain do we think is coming back "with a CRACK?" I'm no metalhead, but I would think the solicit is referring to Whiplash, who first surfaced in Marvel Comics in Tales of Suspense #97 in 1968. Given that 1968 was 58 years ago, I would consider Whiplash to be an "old Iron Man rogue." And, of course, Whiplash is brandishing a massive whip on the cover of Tales of Suspense #97. 

Either way, we'll see who the villain ends up being when Iron Man #7 is released on July 1. 

Get ready for what's next with our list to upcoming comics and how to buy comics at a comic shop, and our guide to all the free comics you can get with this year's Free Comic Book Day 2026 and Comics Giveaway Day 2026.