Roman Reigns’ WrestleMania 42 Role Faces Backstage Creative Tensions

Backstage discussions within WWE have intensified as WrestleMania 42 approaches, centering on a reported creative disagreement between top star Roman Reigns and Chief Content Officer Triple H regarding Reigns’ role at the company’s biggest annual event. Sources indicate a divergence in vision for Reigns’ involvement, moving away from a previously anticipated third encounter with Cody Rhodes and instead exploring fresh, potentially shocking new directions for the ‘Head of the Table’ and other major figures.

The creative tensions, as reported by Wrestling-World.com, are not merely part of a storyline but reflect a genuine power dynamic over the strategic direction of WrestleMania. Early plans had reportedly focused on a trilogy bout between Reigns and Cody Rhodes, a matchup that has headlined two major events previously. However, Triple H, who oversees WWE’s creative, is said to have pushed for a fresh approach, believing that fans desired new matchups rather than a familiar pairing. This shift has opened the door for a wave of speculation and potential major surprises that could redefine WrestleMania 42.

Backstage Tensions Over Reigns’ Role

The reported clash highlights the significant influence both Roman Reigns and Triple H wield in shaping WWE’s flagship event. Reigns, a dominant figure for years, has historically had a substantial say in his character’s trajectory and major storylines. Triple H, since taking over creative control, has emphasized evolving narratives and presenting fresh content to the WWE Universe. This confluence of strong creative visions appears to have led to the current impasse regarding Reigns’ specific path to WrestleMania 42.

The decision to pivot away from a third Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes match is particularly noteworthy. Their previous encounters, especially the WrestleMania 40 main event, were highly acclaimed and saw Rhodes finally ‘finish his story’ by defeating Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. While a rubber match might seem logical to some, the reported desire for novelty from Triple H’s side suggests a strategic effort to prevent fan fatigue and introduce new marquee attractions. This creative flexibility could lead to a more unpredictable and exciting WrestleMania season, keeping fans guessing about the ultimate direction of key superstars.

WrestleMania 42 Creative Shifts and Title Scene

With the Cody Rhodes trilogy reportedly off the table for Reigns, the focus shifts to other possibilities that could anchor WrestleMania 42. The current WWE Championship picture has already seen significant developments, including Drew McIntyre capturing the WWE Championship in a brutal ‘Three Stages of Hell’ match earlier this month. This match reportedly concluded with the involvement of Jacob Fatu, a development that has introduced new layers of unpredictability and potential alliances into the title scene. These evolving storylines suggest that WWE’s creative team is actively laying groundwork for multiple compelling narratives leading into April’s grand spectacle.

Roman Reigns is expected to make his return around the Royal Rumble, a crucial period when WWE traditionally finalizes its WrestleMania plans. His return will undoubtedly clarify his immediate future, determining whether he will vie for a championship or engage in a non-title, high-profile feud. The uncertainty surrounding Reigns’ role adds an intriguing element to the upcoming months, forcing fans and analysts to speculate on the creative team’s ultimate vision for one of WWE’s most dominant performers.

Potential Shockers and High-Stakes Returns

Beyond the internal creative discussions, WrestleMania 42 is being primed for several major surprises that could significantly impact WWE’s landscape for the coming year. Asianet News reports on three potential ‘shockers’ Triple H could deploy to electrify fans. One of the most anticipated involves the dramatic return of Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. Absent since Elimination Chamber 2025, The Rock could reportedly attack Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42, potentially spoiling an expected triumph for Reigns and setting the stage for their long-awaited, generational family feud at WrestleMania 43, rumored to take place in Saudi Arabia. This intervention would not only provide a massive moment but also create a blockbuster narrative for the subsequent year, capitalizing on the immense star power of both cousins.

Another significant surprise could see Brock Lesnar capturing his eighth WWE Championship. With rumors circulating about Lesnar’s potential retirement at SummerSlam in Minnesota, a title run at WrestleMania 42 could serve as a powerful farewell storyline. A proposed triple-threat contest involving Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre could see external interference, possibly from The Rock, giving Lesnar the edge to secure a shocking victory. Crowning ‘The Beast Incarnate’ as champion would undoubtedly create a memorable WrestleMania moment and provide a compelling narrative arc for his final months with the company, leveraging his enduring popularity.

The Future of the Undisputed Championship and Rollins’ Return

The Undisputed WWE Universal Championship picture remains central to WrestleMania’s allure. Should Roman Reigns indeed win the Royal Rumble and reclaim the title, The Rock’s interference would immediately inject high drama into his reign. Alternatively, a Brock Lesnar victory would set up a powerful, if potentially short, championship run, providing a fitting send-off for a legendary figure. These scenarios underscore WWE’s commitment to making the Undisputed Championship a focal point of its biggest event, ensuring that the title remains at the center of compelling, high-stakes storytelling.

Adding another layer of intrigue, Seth Rollins, who was written off television last October after his faction ‘The Vision’ disbanded, is also rumored for a dramatic return at WrestleMania 42. Rollins could target Bron Breakker, potentially costing him the World Heavyweight Championship against CM Punk. This move could see Rollins aligning with Punk to dismantle ‘The Vision’ (if it reforms or is still a factor), or simply pursuing a fresh rivalry. Paul Heyman, a figure well-versed in WWE’s inner workings, has previously lauded Rollins’ in-ring prowess, calling him the ‘best in-ring performer since 2012’ and stating he is ‘just now entering his prime,’ according to Fightful. Heyman was also aligned with Rollins as part of ‘The Vision’ following WrestleMania 41, adding a layer of history to any potential interaction. Rollins’ return would not only provide a major shock but also reshape the main event picture for Night 1, injecting a new dynamic into the World Heavyweight Championship scene.

The confluence of reported backstage creative discussions, the potential for major returns, and the evolving championship landscape suggests that WrestleMania 42 is being meticulously crafted to deliver a series of high-impact moments. By reportedly pushing for fresh matchups and embracing unpredictability, WWE aims to ensure its biggest show of the year captivates its global audience, moving beyond established rivalries to forge new, compelling narratives for its top stars.