As WWE prepares for the upcoming Elimination Chamber event, speculation continues to build regarding potential high-profile returns at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. Among the most talked-about is the possibility of the superstar Bad Bunny making a significant comeback, fueling rumors across sports entertainment circles. This WrestleMania 42 return rumor highlights how WWE may aim to draw attention with star power ahead of one of its biggest annual shows.
Disappointing Update on the Mysterious Crate from RAW
Earlier this week on Monday Night RAW, a mysterious crate was delivered with instructions not to open it until the 28th of February, coinciding with the Elimination Chamber date. The crate’s arrival sparked immediate excitement, as many speculated it might reveal the return of Chris Jericho, a major name absent from WWE since he joined AEW in 2019. However, internal reports indicate this is unlikely. According to Fightful Select, Jericho’s contract situation remains frozen, making any immediate WWE return uncertain.
The crate was redirected from RAW’s General Manager Adam Pearce to Nick Aldis of SmackDown for handling, but no confirmation about its contents has emerged. This development dampens hopes for an imminent Jericho comeback yet leaves fans curious about future surprises.
Bad Bunny’s Growing Stardom and Potential WrestleMania Reappearance
Bad Bunny’s involvement with WWE has been intermittent but impactful. Following a notable hiatus, he returned in 2023 as the initial host of WWE Backlash in San Juan, Puerto Rico, before relinquishing hosting duties to compete in a memorable San Juan Street Fight against Damian Priest. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the greatest celebrity appearances in recent wrestling history.
Now reports from WrestleVotes Radio via Fightful Select suggest WWE intends to bring Bad Bunny back to WrestleMania 42. While it is unclear if he will wrestle, his mere presence in Las Vegas is expected to generate significant buzz. Given his rising mainstream profile after his Super Bowl Halftime Show appearance, Bad Bunny’s involvement could boost anticipation and excitement for the event.
AJ Styles Spotted at WWE Performance Center, Hinting at Future Role
After concluding his in-ring career at the 2026 Royal Rumble with a high-stakes loss to Gunther, AJ Styles’ next steps remain uncertain. Recently, he was seen at the WWE Performance Center, though the exact purpose of the visit was not disclosed. Reports from PWInsider suggest this could signal a new chapter, possibly involving training or mentorship roles, aligning with Styles’ previously expressed interest in helping develop new talent.
Fans will soon receive a tribute to Styles on RAW, underscoring the respect and recognition he commands within WWE. This points to the potential transition of “The Phenomenal One” from performer to influential figure behind the scenes.
John Cena’s Retirement Match Sets a Historic Ticket Sales Record
John Cena’s retirement match in December drew unprecedented attention, achieving a record-breaking gate of $6,553,833 in ticket sales for TKO. The originally planned venue in Boston was moved to Washington D.C. for financial advantages, which paid off significantly.
This gate represents the highest ever recorded for a wrestling arena show, surpassing expectations outside marquee events like WrestleMania. Cena’s retirement tour was widely seen as a key driver of WWE’s business in 2025, sustaining substantial revenue through live events.
However, reports indicate that ticket sales for WrestleMania 42 have not met internal projections, causing some internal concern. This uncertainty raises questions about pricing strategies and fan accessibility moving forward, especially as WWE relies on big names like Cena to fuel interest.
Looking Ahead: The Road to WrestleMania 42 Grows More Complex
With weeks remaining before WrestleMania 42, fan anticipation is tempered by mixed signals. The absence of a confirmed Chris Jericho return dampens one storyline, while the potential reappearance of Bad Bunny offers a promising highlight. Meanwhile, AJ Styles’ evolving role and John Cena’s record-setting farewell continue to shape WWE’s landscape.
These developments illustrate WWE’s balancing act between maintaining marquee star power and managing expectations amid evolving ticket sales dynamics. How these factors converge will influence the success of WrestleMania 42 and WWE’s trajectory into the coming years.
A mystery box arrived ON #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/2U8dMUGmpy
— Lyra Valkyria,Roman Reigns,The Heads Of Industry. (@AldoEmpire2003) February 17, 2026
