Bold WWE Predictions for 2026: John Cena, NXT Stars, and Major Creative Shifts

2025 was a mixed bag for the WWE, as it marked numerous milestones but also left fans wanting more. From the Monday Night Raw debut on Netflix to ESPN becoming the new home for Premium Live Events, 2025 was a revenue generator for the WWE. 

On the flip side, Triple H and co. delivered a few whimpers along the way. Whether it was “Main Event” Jey Usos' singles run, John Cena’s heel run, or Brock’s return, WWE sometimes left a sour taste in people’s mouths. 

With 2026 right around the corner, it is time for some bold predictions for the upcoming year.

John Cena is the host of WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas

He said on December 13th, his time was up as he left his wristbands and shoes in the middle of the ring before saluting on his way out. No more wrestling for “Big Match John,” but that does not mean he will not be making any more appearances for the company he has been loyal to. 

With WM in Vegas, look for WWE to lure Cena back into the spotlight again to be the host. The hardest part of it all would be keeping it a secret, but even if fans know he will be hosting, they would cheer for him anyway. Whether or not he gives anyone an Attitude Adjustment is a different story. Either way, it would be a heartwarming moment for both Cena and fans alike.

An NXT superstar will win either the Royal Rumble or MITB

This one might seem a little far-fetched, but it is possible. The Royal Rumble takes place in Saudi Arabia this year, so surprises could be a few. WWE likely will not plan on any returns (sans Bianca Belair), so who isn’t to suggest that an NXT superstar punches their ticket to WM? A huge name that could debut at the Rumble is Oba Femi, and he would be a favorite to win it too.

As for MITB, it is a great opportunity for the company to show the fanbase they believe in a rising star. Who could that rising star be? Jacy Jane or Je’von Evans. WWE’s handling of the briefcase over the years does not have a great tracking record. Last year, Drew McIytre won before CM Punk cost him his opportunity later in the show. The year before that, Damian Priest won and is now in mid-card purgatory. 

Let us hope WWE makes both the Rumble and MITB worth something special this year.

ESPN’s deal with WWE flops

When WWE made a blockbuster deal with ESPN for five years and $325 million, it looked like a new era for the brand. However, Wrestlepalooza did not live up to the hype. The first PLE under the ESPN umbrella was supposed to be massive. Instead, it opened with John Cena getting squashed by Brock Lesnar in controversial fashion. Stephanie Vaquer and Iyo Sky had a great match, along with the heartwarming return of AJ Lee to the ring. For what was supposed to be another edition of WM resulted in a C-level event for WWE.

Let us turn to the second event, Survivor Series WarGames. Vaquer’s match against Nikki Bella was a dud, and critics alike agree that both WarGames matches left many wanting more. Whether or not the ESPN deal has backlash, 2026 needs to be the year WWE shakes up creatively and provides a better on-screen product.

There will be a heel turn/face turn that fans do not see coming

One superstar who could turn to the dark side is Randy Orton. He has been beloved by fans since returning at Survivor Series years ago. However, a date with Cody Rhodes at WM could be in the cards. The mentor against the protégé (both were in the Legacy faction), what a story to be told. Imagine the heat Orton could get as a slimy heel, like when he faced Edge.

On the women’s side, Kairi Sane would be a great choice to turn face. She has had enough of Asuka, and that leads to a triple threat between her, Asuka, and Iyo Sky. That would be one heck of a matchup.

Evolution becomes a regular staple in the WWE PLE rotation

In 2018, WWE showcased the first-ever Evolution PPV. An all-women’s event that included Ronda Rousey, Trish Stratus, Lita, and Becky Lynch. Then, suddenly, the company dropped the concept altogether. That was until this past year, when they decided to bring it back. The event included Naomi cashing in her MITB briefcase to become the new Women’s Champion. It also included Tiffany Stratton beating Trish Stratus for the title.

There is not any announcement in regards to the Evolution PLE, but stay tuned because it will be coming back. WWE is host to the greatest women’s division in the world, and it would be a mistake not to showcase them once a year. Whether it is to highlight the current roster or shine a light on the past, WWE needs to keep this gravy train.

These are just five predictions for the WWE calendar year. Look for WWE to bounce back from this underwhelming creative year as the Road to WrestleMania heats up.