WrestleMania 41 is shaping up to be one for the ages. The event is known for its dream matches and career-defining moments. This year it features CM Punk’s long-awaited shot at the main event spotlight, as well as John Cena’s potential record-breaking 17th title win before his retirement, announced for the end of the year.
The two-day WrestleMania event, on April 19 and 20 at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, will be live-streamed on Netflix for the first time. Fans can expect big-name returns, rising stars proving themselves and real-life tensions spilling into the ring. Here's a look at five of the most anticipated matches and who we predict will walk out victorious.
Roman Reigns vs CM Punk vs Seth Rollins – Triple Threat Match
It’s a moment that CM Punk has waited his entire career for. In a triple-threat match, he’ll take on Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania on night one. This has the makings of a classic with the apparent real-life animosity between Punk and Rollins adding to the drama, while Rollins and Reigns – who were members of The Shield together before becoming rivals – have plenty of history that will also make things interesting.
Prediction: CM Punk wins his first WrestleMania main event.
Cody Rhodes vs John Cena – Undisputed WWE Champion
Call it a dream match or a long-awaited showdown: two WWE poster boys from different eras are finally facing off. Fans have waited years to see John Cena turn heel after a long run as a beloved face, and his shocking villainous shift at Elimination Chamber stunned fans around the world. Cody Rhodes has surged in popularity since his WWE return, while Cena remains a legend with 16 championship reigns, currently tying for the record with Ric Flair.
Prediction: John Cena defeats Cody Rhodes to become the Undisputed WWE Champion for a record-breaking 17th time.
Tiffany Stratton vs Charlotte Flair – WWE Women’s Championship
What once felt like a boring match-up has gained momentum with tensions rising between the two female wrestlers. Tiffany Stratton, in her first reign as WWE women’s champion, will defend her title against 14-time champion Charlotte Flair. A series of promos hyping up their WrestleMania showdown has featured some harsh jabs (such as mention of Flair’s third divorce), making it seem personal.
Prediction: While Stratton has been a worthy champion and a breath of fresh air in the women’s division, WrestleMania has always been where Flair shines brightest. Expect her to win her 15th title.
Gunther vs Jey Uso – World Heavyweight Championship
Gunther has dominated as WWE World Heavyweight Champion, but Jey Uso – this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble winner – is chasing his first world championship title. What initially seemed like a one-sided match-up has become anything but, as the build up to WrestleMania has shown Uso might be more ready than anyone expected. However, Gunther's long-reigning championship defence has also proven that he won't be easily defeated.
Prediction: Gunther continues his streak as he retains the World Heavyweight championship, with perhaps some outside interference.
Iyo Sky vs Bianca Belair vs Rhea Ripley – Women’s World Championship
As Women’s World Champion, Iyo Sky doesn’t exactly feel respected. In a triple-threat title defence against Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley, she seems like the odd one out. Despite being the champion, Sky – known for her high-flying unpredictability – enters as the underdog against Belair’s raw athleticism and Ripley’s brute toughness.
Prediction: Iyo Sky retains her title against her two toughest challengers. Although she may be smaller, she looks set to come out on top.
