Although WrestleMania 42 is yet to occur, WWE has already announced WrestleMania 43 will take place in Saudi Arabia, marking the first time this flagship event will be held outside the United States. This decision continues WWE’s partnership with the Saudi Arabian government, a collaboration that has sparked mixed reactions among fans worldwide. The move, however, opens intriguing possibilities for the return of wrestling veterans, as Saudi Arabia’s significant financial backing often attracts high-profile talent for surprise appearances.
The prospect of WrestleMania 43 featuring iconic legends has excited many fans who favor nostalgia. Given Saudi Arabia’s history of investing heavily in bringing major wrestling stars to its events, the stage is set for unexpected matchups and returns from retired or semi-retired performers, potentially elevating the event’s profile.
Could The Rock Make a Surprise Return at WrestleMania 43?
The Rock, known globally for his wrestling legacy and Hollywood success, remains one of WWE’s biggest stars. Although his demanding film career limits his in-ring appearances, reports suggest he may be willing to step back into the ring for WrestleMania 43 if offered a substantial package. The Wrestling Observer Newsletter indicated he is tentatively scheduled to compete, a development sure to thrill WWE fans.
Potential storylines involving The Rock face popular names such as Roman Reigns or Cody Rhodes, both current top WWE stars. His last match was the 2024 WrestleMania 40 tag team bout alongside Roman Reigns against Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins, showcasing the narrative possibilities if he returns for this landmark Saudi Arabia event.
Shawn Michaels: Mr. WrestleMania Could Return to the Saudi Ring
Shawn Michaels, dubbed “Mr. WrestleMania” for his history of delivering standout performances on WWE’s biggest stage, officially retired in 2010 after his iconic WrestleMania match against The Undertaker. Nevertheless, Michaels returned for a special high-profile match at the Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia in 2018, teaming with Triple H versus The Brothers of Destruction.
Given Michaels’ previous willingness to compete in Saudi Arabia when enticed by lucrative offers, speculation about his appearance at WrestleMania 43 remains viable. Fans would welcome dream matches involving Michaels, who possesses the skill and charisma to perform impressively even after years away from regular competition.
Sting’s Potential WWE Return after AEW Run
Sting, whose WWE tenure was brief but memorable, recently showcased his wrestling prowess in AEW, participating in a 2024 match with Darby Allin against The Young Bucks. Despite facing physical challenges and a career-threatening neck injury sustained in WWE, he continues to prove his commitment to delivering engaging matches alongside younger talent.
As WrestleMania 43 approaches, Sting’s age will be advanced, yet his competitive spirit and risk-taking make his participation plausible. Sting never concluded his WWE career on his terms, and a return could offer closure while also adding intrigue in WWE’s competition with AEW.
John Cena: Possible Post-Retirement Appearance
John Cena’s official retirement is scheduled for December 2025, and while he has expressed intent to stop wrestling, history shows retirements in professional wrestling are often temporary. By WrestleMania 43, Cena would be a few years out of the ring, which could generate significant excitement if he made a comeback.
Cena has faced numerous top-tier opponents during his farewell run but still has potential high-profile matchups WWE could build toward. Given Saudi Arabia’s influence on the event, there is precedent for the government to encourage Cena’s involvement to attract mainstream attention.
Daniel Bryan’s Possible WWE Return at WrestleMania 43
Currently contracted with AEW and active through 2024, Daniel Bryan could be available to return to WWE by the time WrestleMania 43 occurs. Bryan can still wrestle at an elite level, and his return could be positioned as a major draw, especially if combined with a WWE Hall of Fame induction to capitalize on his enduring popularity.
Known for his passionate fan base and underdog spirit, Bryan represents one of the few young legends whose story with WWE feels unfinished, making his potential return a compelling option for enhancing the event’s significance.
Goldberg Likely to Reappear Despite Retirement Storylines
Goldberg, who retired following a storyline defeat to Gunther in early 2025, has expressed dissatisfaction with how his final match was handled. This discontent suggests he might embrace an opportunity to return for WrestleMania 43, especially given Saudi Arabia’s previous efforts to feature him prominently in their WWE shows.
Despite mixed reactions from the broader WWE audience, Goldberg remains a recognizable figure whose trademark moves—the Spear and Jackhammer—could add spectacle to the event, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s penchant for leveraging star power in its wrestling events.
The Undertaker: A Possible Final Showcase at WrestleMania 43
The Undertaker is synonymous with WrestleMania, known for his legendary undefeated streak and captivating performances. Though he officially retired in 2020 after a no-fan match against AJ Styles—due to pandemic restrictions—he remains involved backstage and expresses lingering interest in wrestling again if the circumstances are right.
Unlike his prior farewell, WrestleMania 43 could provide a genuine closing chapter in front of a live audience. WWE’s ability to craft a meaningful storyline and allow sufficient preparation time may entice The Undertaker to return for one last memorable match on the grandest stage.
Steve Austin’s Potential Return Could Ignite WrestleMania 43
Considered retired since 2003, Steve Austin shocked fans with an in-ring appearance at WrestleMania 38 in 2022, engaging in a thrilling match against Kevin Owens at the age of 57. This surprising return demonstrated that Austin still has the capacity to perform in high-stakes situations despite long absences.
Austin has hinted he might wrestle once more if the story fits, and Saudi Arabia’s affection for drawing wrestling legends to its events makes his participation plausible. A return by The Texas Rattlesnake would undoubtedly create a headline-grabbing moment and reinforce WrestleMania 43’s stature.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of Legend Returns on WrestleMania 43
WrestleMania 43’s setting in Saudi Arabia offers not just a geographical shift for WWE’s marquee event but also the chance to blend nostalgia with current storylines. The presence of legends like The Rock, Shawn Michaels, or The Undertaker would significantly enhance the event’s appeal, attracting viewers across generations.
These potential appearances reflect WWE’s strategy of utilizing Saudi Arabia’s funding to secure top-tier talent, ensuring WrestleMania maintains its status as the premier wrestling spectacle worldwide. Fans eagerly await further announcements as WWE fine-tunes the card, with the likelihood that legends will play a key role in creating unforgettable moments at this historic event.
