With less than two weeks remaining until WrestleMania 42, WWE is working swiftly to build momentum for what promises to be an extraordinary two-night event. Scheduled for April 18 and 19 at the iconic Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, the event has encountered several hurdles in its buildup.
Controversial booking choices, lackluster storylines, and an overreliance on celebrity appearances have dampened the initial excitement among fans. Instead of compelling narratives, WWE has leaned heavily on viral moments and media stunts to capture attention. Despite these challenges, a handful of carefully planned last-minute additions could shift the narrative and make this WrestleMania unforgettable.
Currently, 14 matches are expected, with 12 officially announced. One anticipated contest is a grudge match between two of WWE’s most technically skilled wrestlers: Iyo Sky and Asuka. Their rivalry, which escalated after last year’s fallout, is expected to deliver a high-level display of wrestling prowess. Rumors also suggest a possible character transformation for Kairi Sane, adding further intrigue. While the buildup has lacked dramatic intensity, the athletes’ talents alone could elevate the show. A hard-hitting, emotionally charged match between Sky and Asuka could serve as a standout moment, refocusing attention on wrestling excellence.
Another match generating considerable buzz features The Usos teaming with LA Knight against The Vision, a trio consisting of Logan Paul, Austin Theory, and IShowSpeed. WWE has been teasing this confrontation following a chaotic segment where Speed accidentally knocked out Knight, enabling Logan and Theory to win the World Tag Team titles from The Usos. Knight retaliated by interrupting Speed’s livestream, intensifying the rivalry. Although some critics feel the celebrity involvement could have been better utilized, this match holds potential to surprise. Speed, despite being relatively new, might display unexpected in-ring skill, and an official announcement could deliver the viral moment WWE desires.
Meanwhile, Carmelo Hayes’ recent loss of the United States Championship to Sami Zayn removed a highly anticipated showdown with Ilja Dragunov from the WrestleMania card. Many fans had expected Hayes to deliver a breakout performance on the grand stage. Instead, WWE seems ready to spotlight Trick Williams, possibly involving a double-turn scenario. The exclusion of Hayes has disappointed some fans, but reintroducing him could transform the match into a thrilling triple-threat, raising the stakes and ensuring the US Title segment resonates strongly.
The main event of Night 1, featuring Randy Orton versus Cody Rhodes, has received mixed responses, particularly due to Pat McAfee’s recent involvement. While Rhodes delivered a promo that sparked some interest, McAfee’s role has led to questions about his necessity in the storyline. The feud between Orton and Rhodes is deeply rooted in personal history, and adding a significant stipulation could elevate the match. Options like a no-disqualification or steel cage match would heighten the drama, emphasizing their rivalry and minimizing external interference. By focusing on their shared past, WWE could deliver an emotionally charged and unforgettable main event for the first night.
Beyond individual matches, WrestleMania 42 holds potential for surprises. WWE has a history of last-minute card changes, unexpected returns, and shocking twists that can ignite fan excitement despite uneven buildups. Audiences crave moments that feel genuine and earned rather than manufactured, and the promotion still has time to address narrative gaps that have hindered the event’s hype. Strategic additions combined with thoughtful storytelling could transform this WrestleMania from a celebrity-heavy spectacle into a must-watch wrestling event.
Ultimately, WrestleMania 42’s success may depend on a blend of in-ring quality, refined narratives, and smart use of star power. Matches like Sky versus Asuka or a potential triple-threat involving Hayes could offer the wrestling excellence fans desire, while high-profile celebrity clashes might attract mainstream attention if executed well. Ensuring that the Orton-Rhodes feud reaches its full potential through meaningful stipulations or deeper storytelling could cement the main event as a classic.
Although WWE has faced challenges with ticket sales and fan enthusiasm, these five possible last-minute additions have the potential to significantly enhance the event. If WWE makes the right moves, what began as a shaky buildup could evolve into a WrestleMania to remember, leaving fans talking long after the final bell.
