WrestleMania 42: Full Match Card, Predictions, and Start Time – Complete Guide

The grandest stage of them all is almost here.

WrestleMania 42 promises to be one of the most unforgettable weekends in professional wrestling history. With a stacked card already taking shape, surprise returns lurking around every corner, and championship gold on the line across multiple nights, this year’s event has all the ingredients to deliver something truly special.

Whether you are planning your watch party, placing friendly bets with friends, or simply want to know what to expect when the biggest stars in WWE collide, this complete guide has everything you need.

Let’s break down the confirmed matches, the predicted bouts, the start times, the location, and the superstars you absolutely cannot afford to miss.

WrestleMania 42: Event Overview

Before we dive into the match card, let’s cover the essential details every fan needs to know.

Date and Start Time

WrestleMania 42 will take place over two nights, continuing the tradition that has made the event a can’t-miss weekend extravaganza.

Night 1: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Night 2: Sunday, April 12, 2026

Start Times:

• Kickoff Show: 6:00 PM Eastern Time (both nights)
• Main Card: 7:00 PM Eastern Time (both nights)
• Peacock Streaming: Available immediately with start of Kickoff Show

For international viewers:

• United Kingdom: 11:00 PM BST (Saturday) / 12:00 AM BST (Sunday)
• Australia: 8:00 AM AEST (Sunday) / 9:00 AM AEST (Monday)
• Germany: 12:00 AM CEST (Sunday) / 1:00 AM CEST (Monday)
• India: 4:30 AM IST (Sunday) / 5:30 AM IST (Monday)

Location and Arena

WrestleMania 42 heads to the heart of Texas.

Venue: AT&T Stadium
City: Arlington, Texas
Capacity: Over 100,000 fans (configuration dependent)

AT&T Stadium is no stranger to massive events. The home of the Dallas Cowboys has hosted WrestleMania 32 in 2016, drawing the highest attended wrestling event in history with 101,763 fans. The venue’s massive video board, stretching from 20-yard line to 20-yard line, ensures every fan has a perfect view of the action.

The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex has embraced WrestleMania week with open arms. From WrestleCon to independent shows at the Toyota Music Factory, the entire region transforms into wrestling central for the week leading up to the big event.

How to Watch

WrestleMania 42 will be available through multiple platforms:

United States:

• Peacock: Exclusive streaming home for WWE Premium Live Events
• Monthly Subscription: $5.99 (with ads) / $11.99 (ad-free)
• Annual Subscription: Available for significant savings

International:

• WWE Network: Available in most international markets
• Local Broadcast Partners: Check WWE.com for specific providers in your region

Pay-Per-View:
Traditional pay-per-view options remain available through cable and satellite providers, though streaming has become the preferred method for most fans.

Complete Confirmed Match Card

Following the Elimination Chamber premium live event on February 28, the entire championship card is now officially set. Here are the confirmed matches.

Note: The specific nights for the women’s championship matches and the Lesnar open challenge have not yet been announced by WWE.

Match-by-Match Breakdown

Night 1 Main Event – Undisputed WWE Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton

The Road to This Match

The journey to this moment has been over fifteen years in the making.

Cody Rhodes captured the Undisputed WWE Championship on the March 6 episode of SmackDown in Portland, Oregon. He defeated Drew McIntyre in a chaotic main event that featured interference from Jacob Fatu, who prevented McIntyre from using a steel chair. Rhodes capitalized with a super Cody Cutter and the Cross Rhodes for the victory, becoming a three-time champion.

Randy Orton earned his opportunity by winning the Men’s Elimination Chamber match in Chicago. On the same night Rhodes lost the title to McIntyre earlier this year, Orton made his statement by outlasting LA Knight, Je’Von Evans, Trick Williams, Logan Paul, and the controversial new signee Jacob Fatu.

But the defining moment came after the bell. Orton turned on his celebrating friend, hitting an RKO on a shocked Rhodes and reigniting a rivalry that dates back to their days in Legacy.

The History

From 2008 to 2010, a young Cody Rhodes stood alongside Randy Orton as part of The Legacy stable. Orton was the mentor, the established star, the veteran teaching the next generation. Rhodes was the eager student, learning the business from one of the best to ever step inside the ring.

Their relationship was complicated. Orton pushed Rhodes hard, sometimes crossing lines. But the foundation of respect was always there. Until now.

What’s at Stake

For Rhodes, this is his first defense since regaining the championship. A victory would validate his return to the top and prove he can defeat the man who taught him everything.

For Orton, this is about respect. He has made it clear that he doesn’t believe Rhodes has earned his place. A win would give Orton his 15th world championship and add another legendary chapter to his career.

Night 2 Main Event – World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns

The Road to This Match

This is the match that has dominated wrestling conversations for months.

CM Punk has been an unstoppable champion since November 2025, successfully defending his World Heavyweight Championship against all comers. His latest victory came at Elimination Chamber, where he defeated Finn Balor in a grueling match that forced Balor to submit.

Roman Reigns earned his title shot by winning the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble. After months of speculation about which champion he would challenge, Reigns made his choice clear during the February 28 episode of SmackDown. He wants CM Punk. He wants the World Heavyweight Championship. And he wants it on the grandest stage of them all.

Reigns has not competed in a title match since dropping the Undisputed WWE Championship to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40. His return to the championship scene has been carefully orchestrated, and Punk represents the ultimate obstacle.

The Dynamic

Punk represents the defiant champion who fought his way back to the top after years away from the company. His journey has been about proving doubters wrong and reclaiming the spot he believes he always deserved.

Reigns represents the dominant force who believes the title should have never left his waist. His aura of invincibility was shattered when he lost to Rhodes, and reclaiming championship gold at WrestleMania would restore his position as the top star in the industry.

Their paths have crossed verbally for months on social media and in promos. Now they settle it in the ring.

What’s at Stake

For Punk, this is about cementing his legacy. A victory over Reigns at WrestleMania would be the defining moment of his second WWE run.

For Reigns, this is about redemption. Losing to Rhodes haunted him. Beating Punk would erase those memories and reestablish him as the standard by which all champions are measured.

WWE Women’s Championship: Jade Cargill (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

The Road to This Match

The clash of titans in the women’s division is officially set.

Jade Cargill has been a dominant champion since capturing the WWE Women’s Championship earlier this year. Her physical presence and undeniable star power have elevated the title, but questions about her experience have followed her throughout her reign.

Rhea Ripley punched her ticket to Las Vegas by winning the Women’s Elimination Chamber match in Chicago. Entering at the fifth spot, Ripley outlasted a field that included Tiffany Stratton, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Kiana James, and Raquel Rodriguez, finally pinning Stratton to secure the victory.

The Tension

The buildup to this match has been anything but traditional. Following Elimination Chamber, Cargill and Ripley engaged in a heated exchange on social media.

Cargill reminded Ripley that she was “the second option” after Bianca Belair’s injury forced creative to find a new challenger. Ripley fired back questioning Cargill’s work ethic and suggesting she had coasted on natural ability without putting in the necessary work.

Cargill then accused Ripley of spending excessive time in creative meetings, a jab at her opponent’s backstage influence. The exchange turned personal quickly, with both women taking shots at each other’s character and commitment.

Reports have suggested legitimate tension between the two, with some talent critical of Cargill’s professionalism. Whether real or manufactured for television, the animosity has made this feud must-see.

What’s at Stake

For Cargill, this is about proving she belongs. Critics have questioned whether she can deliver at the highest level. A victory over Ripley would silence those doubts forever.

For Ripley, this is about reclaiming championship glory. She hasn’t held gold since March 2025, and her hunger has never been more visible. Beating Cargill would return her to the throne she believes is rightfully hers.

Women’s World Championship: Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Liv Morgan

The Road to This Match

This match became personal on the February 23 episode of Raw in Atlanta.

Liv Morgan won the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble, earning the right to challenge for a world championship at WrestleMania. For weeks, she weighed her options between WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill and Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer.

The decision crystallized when Vaquer questioned Morgan’s journey and integrity in a heated verbal exchange. Vaquer’s words brought Morgan to tears, a rare moment of vulnerability for the popular babyface.

The Moment That Changed Everything

On Raw, Morgan came to the ring with Dominik Mysterio at her side. She invited both champions to hear her decision. The crowd waited in anticipation.

Morgan spoke about how Vaquer’s comments affected her. She talked about the years of hard work, the setbacks, the moments when she wondered if she would ever reach the top. Tears streamed down her face as she described the pain of having her journey questioned.

Then, without warning, Morgan turned and struck Vaquer with the microphone. The champion crumpled to the mat as Morgan stood over her, the tears replaced by cold determination.

The message was clear. Liv Morgan chooses Stephanie Vaquer. And she’s not asking. She’s taking.

What’s at Stake

For Morgan, this is about validation. She has been a beloved underdog for years. Now she has the chance to prove she can be a champion.

For Vaquer, this is about defending not just her title but her honor. She was blindsided by someone she underestimated. She won’t make that mistake again.

Open Challenge: Brock Lesnar vs. TBD

The Challenge

The Beast Incarnate is coming to WrestleMania, but his opponent remains a mystery.

Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman appeared on Raw before Elimination Chamber and issued an open challenge to anyone in the WWE locker room. The message was simple. If you want to face Lesnar at WrestleMania, step up.

Heyman stood beside his client and dared anyone to answer. The challenge was clear. No restrictions. No limitations. Any superstar, from any brand, can step forward and demand a match with one of the most dominant forces in wrestling history.

Potential Opponents

Several names have emerged as potential opponents:

Jacob Fatu

The Samoan Werewolf had an electric stare-down with Lesnar at the Royal Rumble. Both men stood nose to nose, neither backing down, as the crowd sensed something special. Creative has reportedly discussed a future match between the two, and WrestleMania would be the perfect stage.

A “beast versus beast” contest would instantly establish Fatu as a main event player. The Samoan Werewolf has the intensity and family pedigree to stand toe-to-toe with Lesnar. His connection to the Anoa’i dynasty adds layers of storytelling potential.

Oba Femi

Femi has been on a dominant run since arriving on the main roster. His combination of power and athleticism has drawn comparisons to a young Lesnar. The stare-down at the Royal Rumble suggested this is a match both men want.

Femi accepting the challenge would be a massive moment. A victory would be even bigger, launching him into the stratosphere as a future world champion.

LA Knight

The clash of styles and personalities would be massive. Knight’s connection with the crowd versus Lesnar’s pure destruction creates natural drama.

Knight has proven he can hang with anyone on the microphone and in the ring. A match with Lesnar would be his biggest test and his biggest opportunity.

Gunther

The Ring General has previously hinted at wanting this match. Gunther versus Lesnar is a dream bout that writes itself. Two of the most intense, physical competitors in WWE history colliding at WrestleMania.

Kevin Owens

Absent from in-ring competition for an extended period, Owens could make a shocking return to challenge Lesnar on the biggest stage. Owens has history with Lesnar, having faced him before, and their matches have delivered intensity.

What’s at Stake

For whoever answers, this is the opportunity of a lifetime. A match with Lesnar at WrestleMania elevates any career. A victory would be legendary.

For Lesnar, this is about reminding everyone why he is called The Beast. He has nothing to prove, but he has everything to gain by delivering another iconic WrestleMania moment.

Predictions for Every Match

Undisputed WWE Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton

Prediction: Cody Rhodes retains

The story here is too rich to end with a loss. Rhodes finally captured the championship that eluded him for so long, and his first defense comes against the man who taught him the business.

Expect a hard-fought match that plays on their history. Orton will control long stretches, using his veteran cunning. He will target Rhodes’ knee, his back, any weakness he can find. The Viper doesn’t win by accident. He wins by breaking down his opponents piece by piece.

Rhodes will fire back with the heart that made him a champion. He will absorb punishment and keep coming forward. The crowd will be firmly behind him, willing him to survive.

In the end, Rhodes hits the Cross Rhodes. One. Two. Three.

Orton raises his hand afterward. Not out of obligation, but out of respect. The student has become the teacher. This chapter closes with both men standing tall.

World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns

Prediction: CM Punk retains

This is the toughest call on the card. Both men have strong cases.

Reigns winning would restore him to the championship position he held for years. It would validate his Royal Rumble victory and send the message that the Head of the Table is back where he belongs.

Punk winning would validate his incredible comeback and extend his historic reign. It would prove that his return was not just a nostalgia act but a legitimate championship run.

The deciding factor may be timing. Reigns can afford to lose and chase again. His position in the company is secure regardless of the outcome. Punk’s window as champion feels more finite. He has spoken openly about the twilight of his career.

Punk retains in what will be the most talked-about match of the weekend. The finish may involve controversy, potentially interference from The Usos or Solo Sikoa, setting up continued tension between Reigns and his family.

WWE Women’s Championship: Jade Cargill (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

Prediction: Rhea Ripley wins

The reports of backstage tension and Cargill’s perceived insecurity among peers suggest that a title change could be in order.

Ripley is a proven commodity. She is a multi-time champion who has delivered on every big stage. Her intensity is unmatched, and her hunger has never been greater after a year without gold.

Cargill losing her first major WrestleMania singles match would be a setback, but it could also fuel a redemption arc. The best champions are often forged in defeat, learning from failure and coming back stronger.

Ripley regaining the championship restores order to the division. It sets up fresh challengers for the months ahead and positions Ripley as the top star she was always meant to be.

Women’s World Championship: Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Liv Morgan

Prediction: Liv Morgan wins

Morgan’s story has been building since her Royal Rumble victory. The emotional vulnerability she showed, followed by the aggressive turn on Vaquer, suggests a champion’s journey.

The underdog narrative has always resonated with Morgan. She has fought for everything she has earned. Now she has the chance to reach the mountaintop.

Morgan winning the title would be a coronation moment. It would validate years of hard work and connection with the audience. The crowd in Las Vegas will erupt when she finally hoists the championship above her head.

Vaquer can lose without damage. She has established herself as a fighting champion throughout her reign. A loss to Morgan, especially under these circumstances, doesn’t diminish what she has accomplished.

Open Challenge: Brock Lesnar vs. TBD

Prediction: Jacob Fatu accepts and wins

Of all the potential opponents, Jacob Fatu makes the most sense.

A member of the Anoa’i family, Fatu has been positioned as a rising force since his debut. His presence at the Royal Rumble, his stare-down with Lesnar, and his interference in championship matches all point to a significant push.

A victory over Lesnar at WrestleMania would be the ultimate rub. It would instantly establish Fatu as a main event player and send shockwaves through the industry.

The visual of Fatu standing over Lesnar, hand raised in victory, would be one of the defining images of WrestleMania 42. It would also continue the Bloodline family drama that has defined WWE for years.

Fatu accepting the challenge on the go-home show before WrestleMania would create massive buzz. The uncertainty of who would answer kept fans guessing. The reveal of Fatu would exceed expectations.

Complete Match Card Predictions Summary

Superstars to Watch at WrestleMania 42

Beyond the championship matches, several performers could define the weekend.

Jacob Fatu

The Samoan Werewolf has been positioned as a major player since his debut. His stare-down with Lesnar at the Royal Rumble was a moment that fans haven’t forgotten. His interference in the Rhodes-McIntyre match on SmackDown suggests he will have a significant role at WrestleMania.

If he answers Lesnar’s open challenge, he becomes must-watch. A victory would be one of the biggest upsets in WrestleMania history and would instantly launch him into the main event scene.

Oba Femi

Femi’s stare-down with Lesnar at the Royal Rumble was equally significant. The young powerhouse has been on a dominant run, and a match with Lesnar would be a massive opportunity.

Even if he doesn’t face Lesnar, Femi is being positioned as a future world champion. Watch for him to have a moment, whether in a match or a significant angle.

Randy Orton

The Viper is in a main event match at WrestleMania against his former protégé. Orton’s veteran presence and ability to tell a story will be on full display.

This could be an all-timer performance from Orton, who has nothing left to prove but everything to gain by delivering another classic.

Liv Morgan

Morgan’s journey from Royal Rumble winner to potential champion has been compelling. Her emotional range, from vulnerability to aggression, has added depth to her character.

Watch for her entrance. Watch for her moments of doubt. Watch for her triumph. This could be her defining night.

Rhea Ripley

Ripley seeks to reclaim championship glory. Her intensity and physical style make every match feel important.

The social media war with Cargill has added a personal edge that we haven’t seen from Ripley in years. She is motivated. She is angry. She is dangerous.

The Mystery Opponent

Whoever answers Lesnar’s challenge becomes an instant story. The surprise factor alone will generate massive buzz.

Whether it’s Fatu, Femi, or someone else entirely, this match will be discussed for years.

WrestleMania Week Events

The excitement extends far beyond the two nights at Allegiant Stadium.

WWE World at WrestleMania

This is the ultimate fan experience. Multiple stages host interviews and panels throughout the week. Merchandise vendors offer exclusive WrestleMania items. Superstars appear for meet and greets, often with limited availability.

NXT Stand & Deliver

NXT Stand & Deliver has become a WrestleMania tradition. The NXT roster consistently outperforms expectations, delivering matches that often rival the main card in quality.

WWE Hall of Fame Ceremony

The Hall of Fame ceremony honors the legends who built the industry. Expect emotional speeches, surprise appearances, and moments that remind us why we love wrestling.

WrestleCon

WrestleCon has grown into the premier independent wrestling convention. Legends from every era appear for photos and autographs. Independent promotions run shows throughout the weekend. The vendor hall offers wrestling memorabilia you won’t find anywhere else.

Independent Wrestling Shows

Multiple independent promotions run shows throughout the weekend. GCW, Impact Wrestling, and various other groups typically announce cards as the date approaches. Check social media for updates as WrestleMania week gets closer.

How the Champions Won Their Titles

Understanding how we got here adds context to each match.

Cody Rhodes – Undisputed WWE Champion

Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre on the March 6 episode of SmackDown in Portland, Oregon. The match featured interference from Jacob Fatu, who prevented McIntyre from using a steel chair. Rhodes capitalized with a super Cody Cutter and the Cross Rhodes for the victory.

This marked Rhodes’ third world championship reign and his first since reclaiming the title he lost earlier in the year.

CM Punk – World Heavyweight Champion

Punk has been champion since November 2025. His most recent defense came at Elimination Chamber, where he defeated Finn Balor in a grueling match. Punk forced Balor to submit to retain his title.

Punk’s reign has been defined by high-quality defenses against a rotating cast of challengers. He has proven that his return was not just a nostalgia act but a legitimate championship run.

Jade Cargill – WWE Women’s Champion

Cargill has been champion since earlier this year. She watched from a suite as Rhea Ripley won the Elimination Chamber to become her WrestleMania opponent.

Cargill’s reign has been dominant but brief. Questions about her experience have followed her, but her physical presence is undeniable.

Stephanie Vaquer – Women’s World Champion

Vaquer has been champion for several months. She was blindsided by Liv Morgan on Raw after Morgan announced her WrestleMania decision.

Vaquer has been a fighting champion, accepting all challenges and proving herself against a deep roster of contenders.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is WrestleMania 42?

WrestleMania 42 takes place Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 2026.

What time does WrestleMania start?

The main card begins at 6:00 PM Eastern / 3:00 PM Pacific both nights. The first hour of each night airs on ESPN2 (Night 1) and ESPN (Night 2).

Where is WrestleMania 42?

Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How can I watch WrestleMania 42?

In the United States, stream on ESPN+. International viewers can watch on Netflix.

What matches are confirmed for WrestleMania 42?

Confirmed matches include:

• Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton – Undisputed WWE Championship (Night 1 Main Event)
• CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns – World Heavyweight Championship (Night 2 Main Event)
• Jade Cargill (c) vs. Rhea Ripley – WWE Women’s Championship
• Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Liv Morgan – Women’s World Championship
• Brock Lesnar vs. TBD – Open Challenge

Who won the Royal Rumble to earn title shots?

Roman Reigns won the Men’s Royal Rumble and chose CM Punk. Liv Morgan won the Women’s Royal Rumble and chose Stephanie Vaquer.

Who won the Elimination Chamber matches?

Randy Orton won the Men’s Elimination Chamber to face Cody Rhodes. Rhea Ripley won the Women’s Elimination Chamber to face Jade Cargill.

How did Cody Rhodes win the Undisputed WWE Championship?

Rhodes defeated Drew McIntyre on the March 6 episode of SmackDown in Portland, Oregon, with interference from Jacob Fatu playing a role in the outcome.

Will The Rock appear at WrestleMania 42?

No confirmation of The Rock’s appearance has been made at this time.

How long is WrestleMania each night?

Typically 4-5 hours including pre-show content.

Can I attend WrestleMania 42 in person?

Tickets remain available through official WWE outlets, with two-night combo packages ranging from under $400 to over $11,000 depending on seating.

Is WrestleMania suitable for children?

WrestleMania is generally family-friendly, though some matches and segments may be intense for very young children. Parental discretion is advised.

What is the Brock Lesnar open challenge?

Brock Lesnar issued an open challenge to anyone in the WWE locker room. The opponent remains a mystery and will likely be revealed on the go-home show before WrestleMania.

Final Thoughts

WrestleMania 42 has shaped up to be one of the most stacked cards in recent memory.

Four world championship matches, each with compelling personal stories. Cody Rhodes defending against his mentor Randy Orton in a match fifteen years in the making. CM Punk putting his historic reign on the line against the Royal Rumble winner Roman Reigns. Jade Cargill and Rhea Ripley settling their differences with the WWE Women’s Championship on the line. Stephanie Vaquer and Liv Morgan taking their personal war to the grandest stage.

And then there’s Brock Lesnar. The Beast Incarnate awaits an opponent, and the mystery adds an element of unpredictability that makes WrestleMania special.

The road has been long. The rivalries are personal. The stakes have never been higher.

Whether you’re watching from the stands at Allegiant Stadium, hosting a watch party at home, or following along on social media, WrestleMania 42 promises memories that will last a lifetime.

See you in Las Vegas.

What matches are you most excited for? Drop your predictions in the comments below and join the conversation. The road to WrestleMania is almost over, and we cannot wait to see what happens when the lights go up.