WWE’s plans for Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42 are undergoing major changes as Seth Rollins’ injury status leaves his participation in doubt. This uncertainty has prompted the company to consider alternative storylines involving the Original Tribal Chief, with potential implications for the event’s headline matches.
Seth Rollins’ Setback Alters Reigns’ WrestleMania Path
Following Survivor Series, Roman Reigns exited television after his team suffered a loss in the Men’s WarGames match against The Vision. The aftermath saw Reigns confront Cody Rhodes, stating firmly that they would never be allies again. This interaction was not spontaneous, but rather a deliberate move to shift story development in anticipation of possible changes for WrestleMania 42.
Wrestling Observer Newsletter’s Dave Meltzer reports that WWE’s initial intention was to book Roman Reigns versus Seth Rollins. However, Rollins is expected to remain inactive for another three to four months because of his injury. Although there is a chance Rollins could return and compete in time for WrestleMania, WWE leadership is hesitant to plan around such uncertainties.
Reliable sources have shared with Meltzer that while a Reigns versus Rollins match remains possible, it is anything but guaranteed at this stage. This has led to considerable speculation about WWE’s true direction for one of the company’s most dominant figures.
Cody Rhodes Rumored to Step into Spotlight Opposite Reigns
As doubts grow regarding Seth Rollins’ readiness, WWE appears to be considering a high-profile rubber match between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes for the biggest event of the year. Discussions indicate that, although this clash was initially planned for early 2026, it is now emerging as the likely featured contest for WrestleMania 42 according to Meltzer.
This prospective shift suggests decisive outcomes in upcoming storylines, particularly the Three Stages of Hell match involving Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre scheduled to take place in Berlin on January 9. If Reigns and Rhodes are indeed set to meet again at WrestleMania 42, fans might infer the likely results of these intermediate matches, reducing some of the suspense leading into the event.
The wrestling world remains in a state of anticipation as more updates are awaited. With the potential for Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes to headline yet another major show together, the direction of WWE’s flagship event now hangs in the balance, influenced by injuries and rapidly evolving plans. The landscape around WrestleMania 42 could change further in the coming weeks as additional information is revealed, and fans continue to debate the implications for their favorite superstars and storylines.
