CM Punk vs. Roman Reigns Set for WWE WrestleMania 42

CM Punk’s return to WWE has culminated in a high-stakes matchup against Roman Reigns at WrestleMania 42, confirmed after Punk’s victory over Finn Balor at WWE Elimination Chamber on Saturday, March 1, 2026. Bleacher Report and WWE.com both report the match will be for the World Heavyweight Championship.

Road to WrestleMania 42

The rivalry between Punk and Reigns began to intensify following Reigns’ win in the 2026 Royal Rumble. Reigns initially weighed his options between challenging Punk or Drew McIntyre, ultimately choosing Punk as his WrestleMania opponent. WWE.com details a heated exchange between the two, filled with personal insults regarding their careers and legacies.

Prior to confirming the WrestleMania match, Punk successfully defended his World Heavyweight Championship against Finn Balor at Elimination Chamber. The match saw Punk counter Balor’s Coup de Grace with a sharpshooter and ultimately secure the win with his GTS finisher. Bleacher Report noted this was a rematch of their January 19th bout in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Reigns’ Royal Rumble Victory and Challenge

Roman Reigns earned the right to challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship by winning the 2026 Royal Rumble, eliminating 29 other Superstars. WWE.com highlights Reigns’ dominance in the match and his subsequent confrontation with Punk on Raw.

WrestleMania 42 Details

WrestleMania 42 will be held on Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, at Allegiant Stadium, streaming live at 7 PM ET/4 PM PT. WWE.com provides information on how to watch the event.

The Stakes

This match represents a significant moment for both competitors. For Reigns, it’s another opportunity to headline WrestleMania and add to his legacy. For Punk, it marks his first time headlining the second night of WrestleMania, a milestone in his career. Yahoo Sports reports fans are excited about the prospect of this main event.