Following the WWE Royal Rumble 2026 event, it was confirmed on Monday Night RAW that Roman Reigns and CM Punk will face off in the main event of WrestleMania 42. This announcement has stirred intense speculation among WWE veterans, who have recently shared their predictions about which superstar will emerge victorious in this highly anticipated clash.
The Hardy Boyz, longtime figures in professional wrestling, discussed their thoughts on the upcoming bout during an appearance on the 1Wrestling podcast, analyzing factors that could influence the outcome of the match.
The Hardy Boyz Share Their Predictions for the Match
Jeff Hardy expressed clear confidence in Roman Reigns retaining his title, stating,
Definitely Roman Reigns is gonna be the champion after that match.
?Jeff Hardy, WWE Veteran
Matt Hardy provided a more conditional perspective, weighing Reigns’ potential availability for WWE events against CM Punk’s chances. He said,
I have no idea what Roman’s schedule is right now, if he’s working a lot. If he’s gonna stick around and be able to make WWE bookings throughout the summer and whatnot, I’m gonna say Roman. If I learn he is gonna be shooting movies all throughout the summer, I’m gonna be going with Punk.
?Matt Hardy, WWE Veteran
Reflections on AJ Styles’ Retirement Match
The Hardy Boyz also reflected on AJ Styles’ recent retirement bout against GUNTHER. Matt Hardy highlighted Styles’ own words regarding his WWE career conclusion,
His exact terminology was, ‘If you do beat me, GUNTHER, it will be the end of my WWE career.’ That was very specific. He has a genuine, very real, authentic love for TNA, so I would love to have him back at TNA, and he would really help us thrive as a company.
?Matt Hardy, WWE Veteran
Jeff Hardy added his admiration for Styles and the possibilities his return to TNA could bring,
I feel like (Styles vs Mike Santana) is a dream match that kinda has to happen now. I heard Mike Santana talk about it in an interview, and it just felt like, ‘Whoa, that would be amazing. AJ, when the world ends, if armageddon happens and all professional wrestling is over, AJ might be the ultimate GOAT, man.
He is just an incredible human being and has done an amazing job in his career. For him to come back to TNA would be incredible, and it would mean so much to all of us.
?Jeff Hardy, WWE Veteran
Matt Hardy Comments on Triple H’s Leadership in WWE
Matt Hardy offered insights into how Triple H has guided WWE since taking a leadership role. He acknowledged the challenges and successes under Triple H’s management, stating,
You have to look at how successful WWE’s been. TKO, some people have been critical about how they have made ticket prices much higher than they should be and whatever else, but he’s still bringing people into the building. He is constantly creating compelling characters, compelling stories, compelling moments.
?Matt Hardy, WWE Veteran
Some people say, ‘Oh, he just does it for the pop’ – but that’s what pro-wrestling is. I think Paul Levesque has done an excellent job, and it’s nice to have someone a little younger – he’s an old school guy, but he’s much more on the pulse of modern day pop culture than Vince was.
?Matt Hardy, WWE Veteran
Roman Reigns’ Status as WWE Universal Champion
Roman Reigns, as the longest-reigning WWE Universal Champion, represents a significant presence in wrestling. He comes from the renowned Anoa’i family, which includes his father, Sika Anoa’i, and his brother, further underscoring his wrestling heritage and influence within WWE.
Implications and Expectations for WrestleMania 42
The predictions from established veterans like The Hardy Boyz highlight the uncertainty and excitement surrounding the WrestleMania 42 main event. With Reigns’ dominance and potential outside commitments influencing his availability, and CM Punk’s rising profile, the match outcome could shape WWE’s direction for the summer season. Fans and industry insiders alike are watching closely as this storyline unfolds, anticipating a high-stakes confrontation that will leave lasting effects on the WWE landscape.
