The Iron Man of the Ultimate universe is a member of the Ultimates, that universe's version of the Avengers. In the Ultimate Universe, Antonio "Tony" Stark is a wealthy industrialist and a brilliant inventor. Like the original Marvel universe Tony, he has a dependency on alcohol and a life-threatening affliction. In this case however, his condition is an inoperable brain tumor which could kill him at anytime. For that reason he decides to use his remaining time to the best of his ability, becoming a philanthropist and superhero using the armor he creates.