10 Marvel Heroes Who Underwent RADICAL Transformations

Johnny Storm's stint as the ruler of the Negative Zone occurred during Jonathan Hickman's character-defining series of the Fantastic Four (2009-2012) and FF (2010-2012). During the story arc 'Three', the Baxter building if left with Johnny Storm, a depowered Ben Grimm and Franklin Richards when it comes under attack from Negative Zone cultists. They manage to open the gate to the Negative Zone so Annihilus's army to attack the Earth. The remaining heroes manage to close the portal at the cost of Johnny's life as he yells his signature tagline "FLAME ON!" as one man against the never-ending horde of the Annihilation wave.

As the remaining members of the Fantastic Four grieve for their fallen comrade, little did they know that Johnny had been resurrected as the result of a horrific machine. Annihilus tortures the Human Torch as he forces him to fight monster after monster in gladiatorial fights. However, this was Annihilus biggest mistake as Johnny forms a rebellion and manages to steal power away from the dictator and leads the Annihilation wave to the aid of the Fantastic Four and the protection of Earth.

Even towards the end of Hickman's run Johnny Storm hold power over the Negative Zone, mostly to prevent Annihilus from regaining power. In an act of benevolence, Johnny decides to give democracy to the denizens of the Negative Zone and let them choose their own leader and future. This doesn't work out as Johnny plans as the majority vote Annihilius back into power, much to Johnny's shock and displeasure.