WWE in 2026: Major Storylines Expected to Dominate the Year
November 18, 2025
WWE in 2026: Major Storylines Expected to Dominate the Year
The year 2026 is shaping up to be one of WWE’s most unpredictable and explosive years yet. New global events and rising talent are emerging. Major returns are rumored. The championship scenes are evolving. Fans can expect fresh storytelling. There will be shocking twists and career-defining rivalries.
Here are the biggest WWE storylines expected to take over 2026.
⭐ 1. The Road After Royal Rumble 2026 in Riyadh
With the 2026 Royal Rumble taking place in Riyadh, WWE is setting the stage for a unique Road to WrestleMania.
Predictions include:
- A surprise international winner
- A returning legend entering late
- Storyline seeds planted for two split-brand WrestleMania main events
- Potential cross-brand conflict leading into February & March
The global setting could create unexpected fan reactions that influence WWE’s booking direction.
⭐ 2. Cody Rhodes vs Roman Reigns: One More Chapter?
Even after Cody “finished the story,” the rivalry with Roman Reigns isn’t truly over.
2026 may give fans:
- A final, decisive chapter
- Bloodline interference leading to a new angle
- A dramatic twist involving Solo Sikoa
- Cody defending the title against a returning Roman
This rivalry is still one of WWE’s biggest money-makers — and 2026 could provide its ultimate clash.
⭐ 3. CM Punk vs Seth Rollins: The Rivalry That Never Dies
With the rivalry already reignited since Punk’s return, 2026 could feature:
- A WrestleMania main event-level match
- A major heel turn from either superstar
- A championship storyline woven into their feud
- Backstage tension fueling on-screen direction
This feud has longevity, intensity, and real history — perfect for 2026 storytelling.
⭐ 4. The Bloodline Rebuilds: Solo Sikoa’s Takeover Era
With Roman stepping back at times, Solo Sikoa is expected to take greater control of The Bloodline.
Possible storylines:
- Solo becoming the group’s leader
- Jacob Fatu or other family members joining
- Roman returning to challenge Solo’s authority
- A full internal civil war within The Bloodline
WWE has been preparing Solo for a mega push — 2026 could be his breakout year.
⭐ 5. The Rise of New Champions and Future Main-Eventers
2026 is likely to elevate new stars into championship positions.
Possible breakout names:
- Carmelo Hayes
- Bron Breakker
- Jey Uso (another main event run)
- LA Knight
- Ilja Dragunov
WWE is transitioning into a new era. Several rising talents are expected to carry the company through 2026 and beyond.
⭐ 6. Women’s Division: Rhea Ripley’s Dominance & New Challengers
Rhea Ripley is still the centerpiece of the women’s division, but 2026 could give us:
- A major rivalry with Bianca Belair
- A returning Charlotte Flair vs Rhea Part III
- A bold push for Tiffany Stratton
- Jade Cargill entering championship contention
The women’s division is stacked with talent — 2026 will be full of main-event-level rivalries.
⭐ 7. NXT Call-Ups That Could Shake the Main Roster
Several NXT stars are expected to make the leap to Raw or SmackDown in 2026.
Top candidates:
- Trick Williams
- Tiffany Stratton
- Carmelo Hayes (if not already full-time)
- The Meta-Four group
- Roxanne Perez
NXT continues to produce future Superstars, and 2026 will showcase their rise on the main stage.
⭐ 8. Global Expansion Storylines
With WWE hosting more international Premium Live Events, storytelling will focus on:
- New global tournaments
- International superstar pushes
- Multi-country rivalries
- Surprise debuts at global events
2026 may be WWE’s most international year ever.
⭐ 9. Tag Team Division Rebuild
The tag team scene is expected to receive a massive upgrade in 2026:
- New long-term champions
- Big-name teams forming
- Undercard teams finally getting spotlight
- Possibly a Tag Team World Cup
With fan interest rising, WWE could give the division its strongest year yet.
⭐ 10. Shock Returns That Could Change Everything
Several big-name returns are rumored for 2026, including:
- Randy Orton (another run)
- Big E (hopeful recovery return)
- Sasha Banks (possible homecoming)
- The Rock (another cameo or match)
Any one of these returns could reshape a major storyline instantly.
🎬 Final Thoughts
WWE in 2026 is set to be a blockbuster year — full of championship shake-ups, global expansion, and unforgettable rivalries. The next chapter of WWE storytelling is set to be bigger than ever. It features a mix of returning legends, rising stars, and evolving storylines.
The world of wrestling is changing, and 2026 will be a defining year for the company.