WWE approached WrestleMania 42 bearing an unusual weight of expectation, perhaps more so than in recent memory, following some questionable decisions regarding the buildup with Cody Rhodes.
Many wrestling fans are scratching their heads over the revelation of Pat McAfee as Randy Orton’s mystery caller. The organization also seemed to rely on some illogical promos in a bid to boost ticket sales, especially after deciding to return WrestleMania to Allegiant Stadium for a second consecutive year.
WWE had an opportunity to showcase a classic storyline involving two legendary wrestling families, but their execution left much to be desired. They really need to reflect on their choices here.
With significant stakes and championships up for grabs, The Post’s Joseph Staszewski shares his predictions for the WrestleMania Night 1 card happening on April 18th in Las Vegas (6 p.m., ESPN Unlimited; the initial hour will also air on ESPN2).
Drew McIntyre vs. Jacob Fatu (unsanctioned match)
This time, it’s Fatu’s moment as McIntyre wraps up his brief reign as WWE Champion. Both competitors have been going at it all over the arena leading up to this, and now they have full freedom to unleash on each other. It seems like a fitting match for the first hour on ESPN2.
Fatu, playing the babyface, enjoys a compelling storyline, as the loyalty of Toma Tonga is on the line, especially with the growing tensions involving Solo Sikoa. With the momentum on his side, he could possibly take McIntyre down, perhaps with a little help from Tonga.
Prediction: Jacob Fatu
iShowSpeed, Logan Paul, Austin Theory vs. LA Knight, Jimmy Uso, Jey Uso
The Usos are eager for retribution after Paul and Theory bested them during a World Tag Team Championship match at Madison Square Garden earlier this month. iShowSpeed seems to be under some bad luck, which could turn this match into an entertaining spectacle for casual viewers. If he faces misfortune again, it might open the door for either Speed or Theory to score a pin and give the Usos some much-needed momentum for a title rematch.
Selection: LA Knight and The Usos
Seth Rollins vs. Gunter
This match came about after Gunter’s sudden attack on Rollins during Raw. It has a compelling backstory, with Gunter owing a favor to Paul Heyman and perhaps looking towards a retirement match with Brock Lesnar. He seems to believe Rollins has overlooked him, and he’s motivated to prove himself. WWE has invested a lot in Gunter, especially since he ended John Cena’s career, so a loss could have significant repercussions. Expect Gunter to secure the win, likely supported by the returning Bron Breakker, setting up a much-anticipated rivalry.
Prediction: Gunter
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match, Nia Jax & Rush Legend (c) vs. Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair vs. Lyla Valkyrie & Bayley vs. The Bella Twins
The four teams have worked tirelessly to reach this match, and WWE is giving the reunited Bella Twins a chance to compete for titles that didn’t exist during their prime. With WrestleMania’s mainstream appeal, it’s the perfect stage. However, there are rumors of Nikki Bella’s ankle injury, with Paige possibly stepping in. I suspect if a team is bound to split after this, it might be Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, especially since Flair might want to refocus on the singles scene.
Prediction: Bella Twins
AJ Lee (c) vs. Becky Lynch Women’s Intercontinental Championship
This will be Lee’s first singles match at WrestleMania, and she has already made Lynch tap three times since returning from her hiatus. I wouldn’t be surprised if that trend continues. There’s really no reason to take the title away from Lee right now, although she may not become a constant presence on TV. Meanwhile, Lynch has already held the title for over 200 days. If anyone can turn things around, it’s her. This match could set up Lee for a showdown against high-profile competitors or even pave the way for her to bring Paige back.
Prediction: AJ Lee
Women’s World Championship Stephanie Vachel (c) vs. Liv Morgan
It’s clear that Vachel’s title reign has been lackluster at best, with his most notable feud being with Raquel Rodriguez until Morgan, fresh off her music video release, won the Royal Rumble. Morgan undeniably has the star power here. The two have been trading barbs, hyping the match remarkably well, and Vachel’s earlier aggression towards Morgan has added layers to this rivalry. It’s hard to predict how this will end, but Morgan’s grit might either shine through or be overwhelmed by Vachel’s numbers game.
Prediction: Liv Morgan
Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton Undisputed WWE Championship
This match is generating a lot of buzz, especially following McAfee’s somewhat awkward entrance into the storyline. It seems to be a point of contention among fans. McAfee’s comments added some unnecessary drama regarding Orton’s title aspirations. The stakes feel high, and it remains to be seen how much influence McAfee will have during the match itself. Rhodes and Orton might be unable to showcase their full potential together, given the lack of promotional buildup. However, I’m optimistic they will still deliver.
The overarching narrative here centers on whether Rhodes can tap into his darker side to overcome Orton. So far, he’s resisted, but the aftermath of WrestleMania might either cast him as a hero again or push him towards a more gritty persona.
Prediction: Randy Orton
