As WrestleMania 42 approaches, WWE fans anticipated a climactic showdown between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes III. However, recent developments suggest WWE may be reconsidering its plans, shifting focus due to factors like Drew McIntyre’s strong title run and changing creative priorities, leaving the door open for new challengers to step into the spotlight.
This article explores five surprising contenders who could face Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42, each bringing a unique dynamic to one of WWE’s biggest events.
Brock Lesnar’s Potential Return Sparks Renewed Rivalry
Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns seemed to have closed their chapter, but their rivalry recently flared back to life in a fierce manner. Their heated confrontation at Survivor Series: WarGames showcased unresolved tension, with both competitors clearly still driven by animosity and rivalry.
Without Paul Heyman mediating between the two, a WrestleMania match between Lesnar and Reigns promises to be an intense battle. Lesnar remains regarded as WWE’s ultimate contender, and after their recent staredown in San Diego, his desire to reclaim supremacy over Reigns appears stronger than ever.
Seth Rollins: A Familiar Challenger Ready to Reignite the Fire
Seth Rollins continues to be viewed as the emergency fallback opponent for Roman Reigns, a match that many fans have long awaited. Their shared history dates back to their time as original members of The Shield, and Rollins possesses a unique ability to mentally disrupt Reigns more than anyone else.
There were internal considerations selecting Rollins for this spot initially, but health concerns put those plans on hold. If Seth can recover and prepare fully for WrestleMania, this battle between former allies could deliver a dramatic and emotionally charged main event.
Jacob Fatu’s Emergence Adds an Unpredictable Threat
The ongoing storyline revolving around Roman Reigns is deeply rooted in family conflict, and Jacob Fatu emerges not merely as a relative but as a formidable force who could challenge Reigns in ways others cannot. Fatu’s recent actions, including orchestrating Drew McIntyre’s championship victory, have turned the title picture upside down.
Should Fatu defeat McIntyre to claim the Undisputed WWE Championship ahead of WrestleMania preparations, this would naturally set the stage for a gripping family feud between the Original Tribal Chief and the Samoan Werewolf, highlighting one of the most intense internal rivalries in WWE history.
Bron Breakker Represents the Future Challenging the Present
WrestleMania 42 might also serve as a launching pad for WWE to officially name the next generation’s leading star, and Bron Breakker fits this role perfectly. Viewed backstage as a younger version of Roman Reigns, Breakker combines exceptional athleticism with fierce passion.
A clash between Reigns and Breakker would be physically demanding and symbolic: for Reigns, a defense of his reign; for Breakker, an opportunity to prove himself and potentially inherit the company’s future spotlight.
CM Punk Emerges as a High-Stakes Rival
Although Roman Reigns and CM Punk recently allied during WarGames, their uneasy partnership resembles a ticking time bomb poised to explode. This looming tension hints at a possible major clash at WrestleMania.
The promise of promos and confrontations between “The Best in the World” and “The Original Tribal Chief” generates considerable excitement. Both men boast significant egos and storied legacies, making this rivalry one of the most compelling options if Cody Rhodes is no longer on the card. Punk vs. Reigns possesses the drawing power of one of WWE’s biggest matchups in recent memory.
