On this week’s edition of SmackDown, the road to WrestleMania 42 began with a huge and unexpected creative shift. Instead of Cody Rhodes holding the WWE undisputed title up to the April event, his second reign as champion ended in a “three stages of hell” match against Drew McIntyre.
The shocking pivot suggests chaos in the creative process. However, according to BodySlam.net, the title change has helped solidify creative plans for the two-night show in a few months. With the top of the card allegedly set for WrestleMania 42, we make some bold predictions on what the featured matches will be on April 18 and 19.
Brock Lesnar vs. Gunther
There have been rumblings over the last few months that this could be Brock Lesnar’s final year as an active wrestler. Meaning this will be his last WrestleMania, and he is sure to get a major matchup at the event. However, it surely won’t be for gold.
So what would be the best use of “The Beast” that helps the future of the company, and is still a marquee matchup? It sure seems as likely as ever that we could get that long-rumored match against Gunther. The Austrian probably won’t be in a world title match in April. So beating Lesnar in his last ‘Mania is a fitting way to keep him very strong heading into the summer and spring, and gives the WWE legend a worthy foe.
Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk – World Heavyweight Title
There were recent rumors that WrestleMania 42 would be headlined by Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns III. However, after the former’s title loss last week, it seems like that could be saved for another year. But the former Bloodline leader is sure to be in one of the main events.
That is why we think he will end up facing RAW’s heavyweight king, CM Punk. It would be a massive clash that has a strong possibility of ending with the completion of Reigns’ two-year odyssey back to the mountaintop.
Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton
Speaking of Rhodes, it’s unclear if he will be in the title picture at WrestleMania 42. It’s very possible, but going with fresh title bouts after he competed for the WWE belt at the last three ‘Manias makes sense. But he still needs to be in a major matchup.
That is why another clash with long-time pal Randy Orton is our prediction. Sure, they fought in the King of the Ring final. But this time, things could be more personal. Plus, with a Rhodes turn in 2026 possible, it would make sense if it happened at WrestleMania after his last close friendship falls apart.
Seth Rollins vs. Bron Breakker
It appears to be a real possibility that Seth Rollins will return in time for WrestleMania 42. That means a showdown with the man who led his ouster from the group he formed, Bron Breakker, is sure to go down. Rollins will come back white hot as he looks for revenge. A matchup with him would offer Breakker a massive, legacy-building bout at the biggest show of the year.
Sami Zayn vs. Drew McIntyre – WWE Undisputed Title
Many in the WWE universe truly believe McIntyre’s SmackDown victory perfectly sets up a long-awaited title win for Sami Zayn. And it makes sense, because if not now, then it will never happen.
WWE loves a good underdog tale, especially heading into ‘Mania. The Canadian is one of the most beloved performers on the roster, who has yet to have a world title win. Overcoming the man he has yet to beat in WWE sure seems like the perfect way for Zayn to finally end his own story.
AJ Styles vs. Je’Von Evans
Similar to Lesnar, this is expected to be AJ Styles‘ last year as an active wrestler. Yet, while he is a WWE legend, the company has shown no evidence that they will give him a big moment in his final WrestleMania like they will for Lesnar. However, that doesn’t mean he won’t be in a meaningful match.
The company sees serious potential in 21-year-old star Je’Von Evans. Getting the rub from Styles at the biggest show of the year seems like classic WWE booking. The match itself could be outstanding while being a passing of the torch from one phenomenal athlete to another. But it would also offer the chance for Styles to be victorious at his final ‘Mania.
LA Knight vs. Dominik Mysterio – Intercontinental Title
Similar to Zayn, WWE fans want to see LA Knight get a world title win. But as of now, that seems unlikely on the road to WrestleMania. However, he is a very popular star and deserves a meaningful matchup. That is why a match for the Intercontinental title against Dominik Mysterio fits.
The lead-up to the match would be a ton of fun, and Mysterio is one of the hottest stars in the company right now. It would give Knight a match that would draw a lot of interest and a chance at winning gold again at a major event.
