WrestleMania 42, slated for this April, will now start earlier than previously planned, according to an announcement from WWE. Ticket holders received an email on Thursday confirming a new kickoff time of 2:30 p.m. Pacific, which has also been updated on the company’s website. Wrestling Observer’s Bryan Alvarez shared additional insight on social media, noting that the live matches will not begin until 3:00 p.m. local time, a full hour ahead of the original 4:00 p.m. start.
Changes Impact NXT Stand & Deliver and Scheduling Adjustments
The adjustment to WrestleMania’s start time comes shortly after WWE revealed that NXT Stand & Deliver would not take place during WrestleMania weekend as it has in recent years. Instead, NXT’s event will occur on Saturday, April 4, at The Factory in Chesterfield, Missouri. Since 2022, NXT Stand & Deliver has been held on the Saturday afternoon of WrestleMania weekend, in the host city of the larger show. One possible factor for moving NXT away from WrestleMania weekend is the early 10:00 a.m. Pacific start last year, which reportedly caused frustration among talent due to early call times.
Confirmed Matches and Current Uncertainty Surrounding WrestleMania’s Card
At present, only two WrestleMania matches have been officially announced: Roman Reigns defending the World Heavyweight Championship against CM Punk, and Liv Morgan facing Stephanie Vaquer for the Women’s World Title. Additional matches are expected to be revealed following the Elimination Chamber event this weekend. However, WWE is reportedly facing challenges with ticket sales, creating uncertainty about the event’s creative plans and future lineup decisions.
Implications of the Updated Schedule and Event Outlook
The decision to move WrestleMania 42’s start time earlier reflects ongoing logistical adjustments, possibly aimed at improving talent experience and attendance. With NXT Stand & Deliver relocated and the WrestleMania card still unsettled, fans and insiders alike are watching closely to see how WWE will navigate these challenges. The outcome could influence ticket demand and the overall presentation of one of professional wrestling’s most significant annual events.
“The event was initially scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m.” – Bryan Alvarez, Wrestling Observer
