Bianca Belair’s ongoing finger injury has forced WWE to revise its plans for WrestleMania 42, originally set to feature her as a key competitor. The event, scheduled for April 18 and 19, 2026, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, no longer includes the proposed title match between Belair and Jade Cargill due to her prolonged recovery.
Initial Plans Involving Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill
WWE had intended for Belair to be a major contender by having her win either the Royal Rumble or the Elimination Chamber to challenge Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Championship. These plans, reported by Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, envisioned a high-profile match in front of the Las Vegas crowd. However, complications stemming from Belair’s finger surgery have derailed this storyline.
Details of Belair’s Injury and Recovery Setbacks
Belair sustained a broken knuckle during a Triple Threat match at WrestleMania 41 against Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY. While initially expected to take just a few months to heal, her rehabilitation has extended considerably longer than anticipated. She recently explained the difficulties of her recovery on social media, saying,
“My finger stiffens back up, and I have to restart therapy every hour.” – Bianca Belair
The persistent stiffness and discomfort have prevented her from returning to in-ring action and forced WWE to adapt creatively.
Creative Adjustments and New Contenders in the Women’s Division
With Belair sidelined, WWE shifted focus to new challengers for the SmackDown women’s title. Rhea Ripley seized the opportunity by winning the Women’s Elimination Chamber match in Chicago earlier this year, earning a title shot against Jade Cargill at WrestleMania 42. This adjustment altered the dynamic of the women’s championship storyline heading into the event.
Expanded Women’s Matches for WrestleMania 42
Belair’s absence has opened room for more women’s matches than ever before at WrestleMania. Reports suggest that up to six women’s bouts could take place across the two nights of the show. Highlighted matches include Stephanie Vaquer defending the Women’s World Championship against Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan. Additionally, a potential rematch for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship between AJ Lee and Becky Lynch is reportedly being considered.
Uncertain Timeline for Belair’s Return and Possible Involvement
Despite the evolving WrestleMania card, WWE has not provided an official date for Bianca Belair’s comeback. Internally, there remains hope that she might make an appearance during WrestleMania 42 weekend in a non-competitive role, although no confirmation exists. Currently, Belair remains on the roster with no defined timetable for her return to wrestling.
Implications for WWE’s Women’s Division and Future Storylines
The unexpected changes due to Bianca Belair’s injury have forced WWE to adapt swiftly, showcasing the depth and flexibility of the women’s division. Rhea Ripley’s elevation adds momentum to her career, while the expanded women’s match lineup highlights WWE’s ongoing investment in female talent. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these shifts influence the narrative beyond WrestleMania and whether Belair’s return might reignite the original plans surrounding her and Jade Cargill.
