In a notable development, WWE has made substantial adjustments to its WrestleMania 42 plans, fueling widespread discussion among fans and insiders. The changes, made last week, could see the highly anticipated match between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns scrapped, with alternative matchups under consideration as excitement builds for the major event in Las Vegas.
Internal Decision Leads to Speculation Over Main Event
According to Dave Meltzer from Wrestling Observer Radio, WWE management decided on a new direction for WrestleMania 42 in the middle of last week. The immediate result was the move to have Drew McIntyre win the WWE Championship—an action that has put other planned matches into question.
“WrestleMania changed on Wednesday of last week, which was when they made the decision to go with the McIntyre title win,”
Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Journalist, stated. He continued,
“So that wasn’t decided until Wednesday. I don’t know what the new matches are, although they may be doing a three-way with McIntyre, Jacob Fatu, and Cody Rhodes. That may not necessarily be at Mania, but that’s kind of — that’s not even 100 percent, but I was told that that’s kind of like, it’s a possibility. The Cody Rhodes/Roman Reigns thing is probably not happening. But whatever it is, the Mania plans were changed on Wednesday when they made the decision to change the championship.”
—Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Journalist.
Although full details about the revised WrestleMania card remain undisclosed, one possibility is a triple threat bout involving Drew McIntyre, Jacob Fatu, and Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship. Meltzer emphasized that this potential match may take place at an event other than WrestleMania, underscoring the uncertainty around WWE’s creative direction.
McIntyre’s Championship Victory Sets the Stage
The shift in WrestleMania 42 plans hinges partly on Drew McIntyre’s recent victory. On January 9, McIntyre beat Cody Rhodes in a grueling Three Stages of Hell match during WWE’s European tour, with the title changing hands in Germany. This title win marks a pivotal moment, as McIntyre is now positioned as a central figure in WWE’s evolving long-term plans.
Following the victory, McIntyre is slated to appear on SmackDown in London this week, further cementing his status in the WWE Championship storyline. Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and Jacob Fatu remain important players, and the final match arrangements for WrestleMania 42 are expected soon.
Upcoming Events to Clarify WrestleMania 42 Plans
The reasons behind WWE’s decision-making shift have not been officially disclosed, but speculation suggests the goal was to add unpredictability to the WrestleMania 42 event and to spotlight new champions like McIntyre. Fans and industry observers are now closely watching for clues about the final card.
Further details are expected at the Royal Rumble 2026, scheduled for the end of this month in Saudi Arabia. The outcome of the Royal Rumble, along with McIntyre’s ongoing appearances, will provide more context for WWE’s new direction. WrestleMania 42 will be held in Las Vegas on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, making it one of the most anticipated sports entertainment events of the year.
