The lead-up to WrestleMania 41 has sparked considerable discussion among the WWE Universe. Opinions on the event’s build have been varied, with some critics lambasting the hype surrounding certain matches while others believe the enthusiasm for these matchups has only intensified in the final weeks. As fans engage in predictions about the outcomes, it’s equally important to evaluate which storylines and rivalries have enriched this WrestleMania season. Given the controversy reminiscent of WrestleMania 2025, let’s explore the standout story arcs as well as those that miss the mark.
13
Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez vs. Bayley and Lyra Valkyrie – E
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match
Although the build for this match didn’t commence until just over a week before WrestleMania, the disappointment lies primarily in Liv Morgan not being featured in a significant match. After a standout 2024, in which Morgan led the women’s division as its World Champion, fans had hoped for a more prominent spotlight at Mania. Instead, she finds herself in a hastily assembled bout alongside Raquel Rodriguez against Bayley and Lyra Valkyrie, who appear to have been paired up merely to fill a spot. Ultimately, this match does little to elevate the struggling Women’s Tag division.
12
LA Knight vs. Jacob Fatu – D
WWE United States Championship Match
Fans expected more from Jacob Fatu heading into this match, particularly following the intrigue of his anticipated feud with Solo Sikoa, which abruptly ended. Sikoa secured his spot as a leading heel post-WrestleMania 40, and his absence from the card is puzzling. While Fatu’s brief engagement with Braun Strowman provided some excitement, the overall storyline leading to this championship clash feels underwhelming.
11
The War Raiders vs. The New Day – D
WWE World Tag Team Championships Match
The New Day’s persona shift to heel status has created a polarizing narrative. After creating substantial heat through the dismissal of Big E, expectations were high for a compelling storyline. However, the ensuing developments have felt lackluster as they gear up for another run at the tag titles. Fans may hope for a redeeming WrestleMania victory, but the path there hasn’t been engaging enough.
10
Iyo Sky vs. Bianca Belair vs. Rhea Ripley – D
Triple Threat Match for the WWE Women’s World Championship
This storyline has generated significant controversy, mainly due to Rhea Ripley’s persistent attempts to insert herself into the championship narrative, which many fans have criticized. While Iyo Sky’s surprising title win was a highlight, viewers have expressed dissatisfaction with the convoluted methods employed to create this matchup. Many believe a straightforward contest between Belair and Sky would have sufficed.
9
AJ Styles vs. Logan Paul – D
Singles Match
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The rivalry between AJ Styles and Logan Paul hasn’t been catastrophic, but it lacks the necessary spark to captivate the audience fully. The standout moments have revolved more around Karrion Kross’s involvement, which has injected some drama with his commentary on the repercussions of Styles’ potential loss. This subplot raises the stakes by linking Styles’ reputation to the match’s outcome, though it still feels inadequate to elevate the overall narrative.
8
Bron Breakker vs. Finn Bálor vs. Penta vs. Dominik Mysterio – C
Fatal Four-Way Match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship
This storyline mainly revolves around Finn Bálor and Dominik Mysterio, with Bron Breakker and Penta playing secondary roles. The overall dynamic feels disconnected, as the former’s feud appears overshadowed by their internal discord, leaving fans somewhat indifferent. Nonetheless, Breakker’s physicality has been entertaining, and the potential for complications among the participants adds an intriguing layer.
7
Tiffany Stratton vs. Charlotte Flair – C
WWE Women’s Championship Match
Once viewed as a premier feud for WrestleMania, the anticipation for Charlotte Flair versus Tiffany Stratton has dwindled due to a lackluster buildup. Stratton’s miscasting as a babyface has hindered her character’s resonance, making it challenging for fans to connect. Meanwhile, Flair’s heel persona hasn’t landed well either, leading to a narrative that feels tired. A redeeming segment from the Attitude Era revitalized some interest in Stratton, but there remains a sense of urgency to rekindle enthusiasm ahead of their clash.
6
Gunther vs. Jey Uso – C
WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match
WrestleMania this year will air later than usual, affecting storyline development for several matches, including Jey Uso vs. Gunther. Despite a slow start, recent activity, including a shocking assault on Jimmy Uso and a passionate promo from Jey, has revitalized interest as the event approaches. Some might argue this turnaround is too late, yet it’s still a welcome improvement in momentum.
5
Damian Priest vs. Drew McIntyre – B
Singles Match
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The buildup to Damian Priest versus Drew McIntyre has been brewing for an entire year since Priest’s cash-in at WrestleMania 40. The escalating tensions following his Rumble elimination and decisive victory in the Elimination Chamber have laid a solid foundation for their clash. Their verbal exchanges have entertained viewers, while the physical confrontations in the lead-up suggest that fans can anticipate an explosive encounter at Mania.
4
Rey Mysterio vs. El Grande Americano – B
Singles Match
This storyline featuring El Grande Americano and the rumored identity of Chad Gable has become one of WWE’s most unique narratives. The comedic and mysterious elements have resonated with fans, creating an engaging storyline that keeps them guessing. Gable’s rise, whether under the mask or not, has garnered attention, making this matchup a sleeper highlight for WrestleMania.
3
Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena – B
WWE Championship Match
John Cena’s unexpected heel turn has injected new life into the WrestleMania 41 WWE Championship landscape. His willingness to cut scathing promos against a crowd that has long booed him transforms his farewell tour into an ambitious mission to break records and “ruin wrestling.” Cody Rhodes, embodying the hero archetype, stands poised to challenge this narrative. While Cena’s sporadic appearances hinder momentum, they also cleverly reinforce his new character’s theme of being larger-than-life.
2
Roman Reigns vs. CM Punk vs. Seth Rollins – A
Triple Threat Match
Wrestling skeptics might argue about the effectiveness of non-title main events lacking stakes, but this triple threat with Roman Reigns, CM Punk, and Seth Rollins, alongside the unpredictability of Paul Heyman, transcends such expectations. The combined star power and history create a compelling narrative that promises high stakes. Punk and Rollins build upon last year’s best feud, while Reigns’ intertwined past with both competitors sets the stage for a must-see encounter.
1
Naomi vs. Jade Cargill – A
The Best Feud Heading into WWE WrestleMania 41
The intrigue surrounding the mystery of who attacked Jade Cargill in a parking lot creates a dramatic backdrop for her conflict with Naomi. As Naomi stepped into a new role during Cargill’s absence, suspicions arose, making for a captivating twist. The depth of their storytelling, marked by impactful moments and strong crowd reactions, culminates in what promises to be the first non-title women’s singles match at WrestleMania. WWE has excelled in crafting this engaging storyline, shining a light on women’s wrestling beyond the championship titles.