A Wild Theory Suggests Eleven Will Have To Fight Max in Stranger Things 5

June 4, 2025

Stranger Things season 5 is expected to be packed with shocking and tragic moments. One fan has put up a wild theory that could be heartbreaking for many fans.

The trailer for the final season was released recently, sending fans into a frenzy. But they were sad to see that Max is still in a coma and Lucas Sinclair is caring for her. Many theories are circulating about how Max will wake up in season 5. Now, a chilling theory suggests that Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) might have to fight her best friend, Max (Sadie Sink) in a battle to save her.

Vecna is Living Inside Max’s Mind

At the end of season 4, Vecna almost killed Max before she was rescued by Eleven. The last scene showed her in a coma with little hope of recovery. And the new teaser confirmed that her condition has not changed at all.

According to a theory on Reddid, Vecna could be hiding inside Max’s mind. At the end of season 4, Vecna was seemingly killed by Nancy, Robin and Steve. But when they looked for his body, it was gone. Later, it was revealed that Vecna survived the injuries.

Fans also recall that Eleven tried to reach Max’s mind but could not find her. This new Reddit theory would explain where both Vecna and Max are.

Vecna is hiding inside of Max’s mind until he recovers which is why Max is in a coma and Eleven can’t find her…he’s hiding.

Another user commented that there is a reason that Max is alive, as she is the only one with a body that Vecna can transfer to.

Yup – there’s a reason she’s still “alive.” The thing that I’m most curious about is what happens when she’s restored. Like – is her body just going to be an agonizing placeholder for her “soul” so that Vecna no longer has it and goes weak? I just don’t see what she can come back to. It seems to me that she could come back as a blind quadriplegic, so I’m curious how they might address this (unless Vecna’s method of healing somehow clues the gang into a way to heal Max).

Eleven Will Have To Fight Max in Stranger Things 5

A Wild Theory Suggests Eleven Will Have To Fight Max in Stranger Things 5

This theory suggests that Vecna is inside Max’s mind until he recovers. Nancy, Robin and Steve may have caused significant damage to Vecna’s body. But given his psychotic powers, it is possible he transferred his soul into Max’s mind.

Hence, the final battle between Eleven and Vecna could be fought in Max’s body. Also, we don’t know if killing Vecna would also kill Max. Would Eleven be forced to destroy her best friend to save the world?

While it would be a shocking twist, Stranger Things has a long history of tragic and emotional reveals. Since it is the final season, nothing is off the table.

What do you think about this Stranger Things 5 theory? Share your thoughts in the comments below.