WWE’s creative direction for WrestleMania 42 is facing internal challenges, with plans for the Undisputed WWE Title picture remaining uncertain as the event approaches, according to reports. While Roman Reigns is scheduled to challenge CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship, the path to determining Drew McIntyre’s opponent for the Undisputed WWE Title has become increasingly fluid.
Despite McIntyre holding the championship for just over a month, and Cody Rhodes currently favored to win the upcoming Men’s Elimination Chamber match to earn a title shot, Jacob Fatu remains a contender under consideration by WWE’s creative department. According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, there has been a push within WWE to involve Fatu in the title scene at WrestleMania, even though he is not currently slated to participate in the Elimination Chamber match this Saturday.
This potential inclusion would require Fatu to earn his way into the championship match before WrestleMania in April. The uncertainty surrounding the title picture is compounded by reports of “internal panic” within WWE as multiple departments struggle to meet deadlines for promotional materials, fearing the company is falling behind schedule.
WrestleVotes also reported discussions about altering the WrestleMania match format for the Undisputed WWE Title, potentially shifting from a traditional one-on-one contest to a five-pack or six-pack challenge. Randy Orton, Sami Zayn, and Aleister Black have been mentioned as potential participants alongside Fatu and Rhodes. As of this week, only Rhodes and Orton are confirmed to compete in the Elimination Chamber match this Saturday.
Adding to the unfolding events, AJ Styles was announced to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. The announcement was made on Raw, with Styles visibly emotional during the segment, and was delivered by The Undertaker. Styles also signed a novel WWE deal after announcing his in-ring retirement.
Individual event tickets for SmackDown and Raw during WrestleMania 42 Week went on sale Tuesday, February 24. Women’s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer is scheduled to defend her title against Liv Morgan at WrestleMania 42.
