Nonsense.
In the comics, before 2008, other than Civil War where they basically made him public enemy #1, Iron Man was a 2nd-3rd tier character and treated that way. He was never a major player in any major comic cross-over, Cap, Spidey and Wolverine were always front and center in every major event. He was also left out in cross over events with other companies like being left out of the DC vs Marvel event back in the mid 90s, and solo crossovers with rival competitors, how many times has Captain America and Spider-Man teamed up with Batman and/or Superman?
He was never on screen before 2008; Hulk had the tv show, two made for tv movies and major motion picture ('03), Captain America had the tv serial, the two made for tv movies and 1991 movie, and Thor guest starred in one of the Hulk's tv movie. What did Iron Man have? Nothing, zero, zip, zilch, nada! All he's ever had on screen was a short lived animated series, he's never been brought to live action.
So this is all make up, make up for him being left out of everything and finally getting the recognition he deserves and becoming a house hold name.
And I have no problem with it!