The X-Men '97 time-travel arc reaches its climax as En Sabah Nur, the world's first mutant encountered in Ancient Egypt, discovers his cosmic destiny. Despite Magneto's attempts to mentor him towards peace, En Sabah Nur encounters a message revealing his role as a chosen vessel for the Celestials. Believing the X-Men have attempted to prevent him from fulfilling his purpose, he transforms into the fully empowered Apocalypse.

In the confrontation that follows, Magneto and Professor Xavier fight to contain the destruction unleashed by the awakened Apocalypse, including a devastating black hole threatening an ancient kingdom. Magneto meets his end whilst managing to suppress this catastrophic weapon, dying in an act of sacrifice to protect innocent lives as Xavier witnesses the tragic conclusion of his decades-long rival and occasional ally.