WrestleMania 42 faces significant setbacks as Bianca Belair and Xavier Woods are both expected to miss the event due to injuries. Belair recently underwent finger surgery, while Woods has been advised to recover from a shoulder injury, casting serious doubts over their participation in the Nevada-based WWE show.
Bianca Belair’s Return to WrestleMania 42 in Question After Surgery
Bianca Belair, WWE’s EST, has been sidelined since WrestleMania 41 due to a knuckle injury sustained during the event. Although fans had hoped she would be ready for this year’s WrestleMania, recent updates suggest otherwise. Belair has now required an additional finger surgery, delaying her comeback plans.
According to WrestleVotes, Belair’s return for the upcoming live event appears unlikely, given the recovery timeline. The community was stunned by this announcement, especially after her initial injury sidelined her for an extended period. WWE and Belair appear to be prioritizing her full healing rather than rushing her back to the ring, despite the disappointment this may cause among fans.
WrestleMania 42 Participation of Xavier Woods Also in Doubt
Xavier Woods, a member of WWE’s New Day, revealed on RAW that he has been dealing with a shoulder injury for several months. His tag team partner, Kofi Kingston, delivered the news that doctors have now ordered Woods to take time off for recovery, raising concerns about his availability for WrestleMania 42.
“Shut the hell up and be quiet and listen to what we have to say now. We have some devastating news to report to you idiots. Xavier Woods has been injured. He has been battling a shoulder injury quietly and bravely for the better part of three months now, and the doctors are now forcing him to take time off to take some time to recover.”
This development adds to the growing list of WrestleMania 42 injuries, which already includes Bron Breakker, pointing to potential reshuffling or changes in key matchups as the event approaches.
Implications of These Injuries on WrestleMania 42
The loss of Bianca Belair and Xavier Woods from WrestleMania 42 not only affects WWE’s card but also disappoints fans eager to see these prominent wrestlers perform at the marquee event. Belair’s situation is particularly significant given her high-profile status and the anticipation around her return.
With both performers needing extended recovery times, WWE will likely look for alternate storylines or replacements to fill the void left by these absences. The focus remains on ensuring athletes’ long-term health in light of these setbacks, highlighting the physical toll wrestling takes on top stars and the uncertainty it brings to major live events.
Just saw the Instagram post from Bianca Belair saying she’s getting surgery on her finger tomorrow.
Sigh.
Alright. Jade Cargill vs. Charlotte Flair for Wrestlemania 42 it is.
WWE can always do Bianca Belair vs Jade Cargill next year. pic.twitter.com/jLMwGfcP7z
— Just Alyx (@JustAlyxCentral) February 16, 2026
