Report: Major WrestleMania 42 Card Changes; Roman Reigns Plans Scrapped
The landscape for Las Vegas has shifted dramatically. A new report details how Drew McIntyre’s title win has caused a ripple effect that may cancel the biggest rematch of the decade.
Backstage Report: The Wednesday Pivot
According to Dave Meltzer on Wrestling Observer Radio, the creative direction for WrestleMania 42 underwent a massive overhaul last week.
Key Takeaways:
- Decision Time: Plans changed last Wednesday.
- Catalyst: Drew McIntyre’s title win in Germany.
- Scrapped: Cody Rhodes vs. Roman Reigns is “probably not happening.”
- New Concept: Possible Triple Threat involving Jacob Fatu.
Source: Wrestling Observer Radio
For months, the wrestling world operated under the assumption that WrestleMania 42 card changes were unlikely, with a rematch between Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns serving as the anchor for the Las Vegas spectacle. However, a shocking title change in Germany has reportedly upended the entire creative board.
The End of the Rematch?
Drew McIntyre’s victory over Cody Rhodes in a “Three Stages of Hell” match on January 9th was not just a shock for the live crowd in Europe—it was the catalyst for a total rewrite of the road to WrestleMania. According to Dave Meltzer, the decision to put the WWE Championship on McIntyre signaled a departure from the long-term plan.
“WrestleMania changed on Wednesday of last week, which was when they made the decision to go with the McIntyre title win,” Meltzer stated on Wrestling Observer Radio. He elaborated that while the full scope of the new card isn’t 100% finalized, one major pillar has likely fallen:
“The Cody Rhodes/Roman Reigns thing is probably not happening. But whatever it is, the Mania plans were changed on Wednesday when they made the decision to change the championship.”
This news is significant, as the “Tribal Chief” vs. the “American Nightmare” in Las Vegas was widely considered the most lucrative main event available to TKO Group Holdings.
New Direction: Enter Jacob Fatu
With the marquee singles match off the table, WWE creative is exploring new dynamics. Meltzer reports that one possibility being discussed is a Triple Threat match for the WWE Championship featuring the new champion Drew McIntyre, the former champion Cody Rhodes, and the “Samoan Werewolf” Jacob Fatu.
While Meltzer noted that this specific match “may not necessarily be at Mania,” it is being discussed as a strong possibility for the upcoming PLE cycle. This inclusion of Jacob Fatu in the world title picture signifies a massive vote of confidence in the former Bloodline enforcer, positioning him as a top-tier player alongside established main eventers.
PWS Analysis: Why Scrap the Money Match?
The reported WrestleMania 42 card changes suggest that WWE is prioritizing unpredictability over “safe” booking. By moving the title to McIntyre in Germany—a rare occurrence for a world title change—WWE has effectively reset the board.
Removing Roman Reigns from the title picture invites speculation about his role in Las Vegas. If he isn’t fighting for the gold, could this open the door for a non-title mega-match against The Rock? Regardless, locking McIntyre in as champion rewards his stellar workhorse run throughout 2025.
What Comes Next?
The fallout from these decisions will begin to materialize immediately. Drew McIntyre is scheduled to appear on SmackDown this Friday in London, where he will likely address his future as champion.
Furthermore, with the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia fast approaching at the end of the month, the winner of the 30-man match will provide the definitive answer to who challenges McIntyre in Las Vegas. If the reports hold true, fans should expect a chaotic and unpredictable “Road to WrestleMania” unlike any in recent memory.
For continuing coverage on these developing plans, stay tuned to our WWE News Hub.