Jade Cargill was originally set to defend the WWE Women’s Championship against Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 42, according to the Wrestling Observer. The plan was for Belair to earn a title opportunity by winning either the Women’s Royal Rumble or the Women’s Elimination Chamber match, setting up a high-profile showdown with her former tag team partner.
However, Belair’s recovery from a finger injury delayed her return, forcing WWE to alter the WrestleMania storyline. Instead of Belair, Rhea Ripley captured victory in the Women’s Elimination Chamber match, securing her spot to challenge Cargill for the title at the marquee event. Cargill and Ripley were scheduled to face off on the SmackDown episode preceding WrestleMania 42, building anticipation for their clash at the Show of Shows.
Kelly Kelly’s Return to WWE Video Games After Over a Decade
In related WWE news, former Divas Champion Kelly Kelly will reappear in WWE video games after a 13-year absence, her last appearance being in WWE ’13. She is confirmed to join the roster for WWE 2K26 as part of the Ringside Pass Season 2 release this April.
Kelly Kelly expressed her excitement on social media, thanking fans for their support in securing her inclusion. When the initial WWE 2K26 roster was announced earlier this year, she was notably absent, causing fans and Kelly herself to feel overlooked. Ultimately, fan feedback prompted 2K to reinstate her character. Kelly Kelly last took part in an in-ring match during WWE’s 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble.
Road Dogg’s Voluntary Departure from WWE Creative Team
Amidst speculation about a creative overhaul at WWE, Brian James, popularly known as Road Dogg, chose to resign from his creative team role rather than being dismissed. PWInsider reports that James handed in his resignation in person, citing dissatisfaction with his shrinking responsibilities.
Cory Hays from Bodyslam detailed,
“Road Dogg was upset with his diminishing role in creative in recent months and decided to walk away today. One person I’ve spoken to stated that it seemed like it was almost inevitable that Road Dogg was on the way out.”
Despite the timing coinciding with WWE announcing a meet-and-greet event featuring him in Las Vegas, James’ Legends agreement means he will likely continue making appearances for fan events, even though he no longer contributes behind the scenes.
Implications of Changes for WWE’s Storylines and Talent
The sudden adjustment to Jade Cargill’s WrestleMania 42 plans underscores the unpredictability of professional wrestling booking, especially when injuries affect key performers like Bianca Belair. Rhea Ripley’s elevation to challenger status ramps up the stakes for WrestleMania’s women’s division and reshapes ongoing rivalries.
Kelly Kelly’s video game return highlights the power of fan influence in shaping WWE’s content decisions, marking a nostalgic yet timely comeback for the WWE 2K franchise. Meanwhile, Road Dogg’s exit from a creative role reflects potential tension within WWE’s backstage environment, though his continued fan engagement suggests his legacy remains valued by the company.
