4 Surprises WWE could’ve revealed at WrestleMania 42, but have already ruined

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In this article, we will take a look at the four surprises WWE could’ve saved for The Showcase of the Immortals but have already ruined.

#4. The resurrection of “Demon” Finn Balor

For years, the WWE Universe has clamored for the return of Finn Balor’s alter ego. Since his exit from The Judgment Day earlier this year, the tension between Balor and Dominik Mysterio has reached its boiling point. A match between The Prince and Mysterio at WrestleMania seemed like the ideal moment to reintroduce the Demon persona.

Imagine Finn Balor facing challenges and showing signs of vulnerability and doubt in the weeks leading up to ‘Mania. Then, on The Grandest Stage of Them All, the lights suddenly go out, and The Demon appears to a thunderous crowd reaction. This would have instantly heightened the excitement of his match and reminded fans of how formidable the character truly is.

However, instead of gradually building up to that moment, WWE revealed its plans too early. The creative team confirmed the return of the Demon character in a backstage vignette on the latest episode of Monday Night RAW.

By prematurely showing the transformation, they turned what could have been an exciting, unforgettable moment for fans into just another routine announcement on the red brand.

#3. Rey Mysterio’s surprise entry into the WWE Intercontinental Championship Ladder Match

A ladder match at WrestleMania is a high-energy, crowd-pleasing showdown known for its exciting moments that often steal the show. When Penta announced that he would defend the gold against four other challengers in a ladder match at ‘Mania 42, something felt missing.

It seemed like there was a conspicuous mystery spot. One that Rey Mysterio would have been a perfect fit for. With this in mind, having The Master of the 619 make an unannounced entrance at The Showcase of the Immortals upon returning from his injury would have done the imagic.

The reveal would have sent the Vegas crowd into a frenzy. Instead, WWE booked Rey Mysterio’s comeback this week on Monday Night RAW, where he announced he was medically cleared to compete. He also managed to insert himself in the IC Ladder Match at The Show of Shows.

While it’s great to see the legend back, Rey’s inclusion in the six-pack ladder match now feels like a formality rather than a heroic comeback.

#2. The identity of Randy Orton’s mystery caller

The most compelling storyline on Friday Night SmackDown over the last month has been the psychological warfare between Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton. The Viper had been seen taking cryptic phone calls from a mentor-figure who he claimed was “the only one who truly understands the venom.”

The creative team loves its mystery angles. It’s the easiest way to increase fan intrigue. It actually worked, as this incident fueled several speculations from fans. The company had a golden opportunity to let the mystery caller reveal himself at WrestleMania 42, perhaps costing Cody the Undisputed WWE Championship. Instead, the beans were spilled on the April 3 episode of the blue brand.

Pat McAfee, the same person who usually sits at the commentary desk, revealed himself as the mastermind in St. Louis. While the heel turn was intriguing, the “who is it?” hype died two weeks too early.

#1. John Cena hosting WrestleMania 42

Since John Cena’s in-ring retirement at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event last December, fans had been eagerly waiting to see when The Greatest of All Time would make a return. With this in mind, a surprise appearance in the middle of the ring at WrestleMania 42, where he would announce himself as the host, would have been the ultimate, jaw-dropping moment for the modern era.

However, in the age of social media engagement, WWE opted for a tweet and a press release. Cena officially announced on March 30, 2026, that he will be the official host for ‘Mania 42. While it helps with promotion and ticket sales, it seemingly sacrifices the emotional payoff of a surprise return at The Showcase of the Immortals.

John Cena’s infrequent appearances in recent years have made each one feel special, adding to his appeal. However, announcing him ahead of time likely takes away the element of surprise. That’s not all. It seemingly turns what could have been a memorable shock into a predictable highlight.

WrestleMania is known for moments that fans don’t see coming. Cena’s role as host could have been one of those surprise moments, but only if it had been kept a secret.

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