WWE Raw Heats Up Before WrestleMania 42 in Vegas

The final Raw before the big event features appearances from top stars and potential match announcements.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:33pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a wrestling match, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives conveying the intensity of the upcoming WrestleMania event.The chaotic energy of WWE's biggest event is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration, hinting at the high-stakes action and unresolved rivalries heading into WrestleMania 42.Today in Sacramento

The final stop before WWE WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas is a live episode of WWE Raw from Sacramento, California. Top stars like Roman Reigns and CM Punk are scheduled to appear as the company hypes its biggest event of the year. With so much on the line, expect some heated confrontations and potential match announcements as the road to WrestleMania reaches its final stretch.

Why it matters

WWE Raw is the last chance for the company to build momentum and excitement before WrestleMania 42 takes over Las Vegas. This episode will likely feature major storyline developments and set the stage for the marquee matches at the upcoming pay-per-view.

The details

The main focus of the show will be the World Heavyweight Championship match between Roman Reigns and CM Punk at WrestleMania 42. Both superstars are advertised to appear on Raw, likely to continue their war of words ahead of their title clash. Other potential storylines include a possible match between former allies Asuka and IYO SKY, as well as the ongoing feud between Finn Balor, Dominik Mysterio, and JD McDonagh. Fans can also expect to see some final hype and potential surprises related to the stacked WrestleMania 42 card.

  • WWE Raw airs live on Netflix on April 13, 2026 at 8/7c.
  • WWE WrestleMania 42 takes place on April 18-19, 2026 in Las Vegas.

The players

Roman Reigns

The current WWE World Heavyweight Champion, set to defend his title against CM Punk at WrestleMania 42.

CM Punk

A former WWE Champion who is challenging Reigns for the World Heavyweight title at the upcoming WrestleMania event.

Asuka

A former WWE Women's Champion who has a history with her former protégé, IYO SKY.

IYO SKY

A former WWE Women's Champion who has turned on her former mentor, Asuka.

The Miz

A veteran WWE Superstar who is set to officiate 'shotgun weddings' at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.

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What’s next

The main event of WrestleMania 42 will be the World Heavyweight Championship match between Roman Reigns and CM Punk. Their final confrontation before the big event is sure to be must-see TV on this episode of WWE Raw.

The takeaway

With WrestleMania 42 just days away, this episode of WWE Raw represents the final chance for the company to build momentum and excitement before its biggest event of the year. Fans can expect high-stakes confrontations, potential match announcements, and a last-minute push to get viewers hyped for the upcoming spectacle in Las Vegas.