Bianca Belair to Undergo Finger Surgery, Delaying WrestleMania Return

The former champion's injury from WrestleMania 41 requires surgery, clouding her WWE comeback timeline.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Bianca Belair, the former WWE champion, has announced that she will be undergoing finger surgery, delaying her in-ring return and casting doubt on her participation at this year's WrestleMania event. Belair suffered the injury during her WrestleMania 41 Triple Threat match and has been absent from WWE programming since then, aside from a brief appearance as a special guest referee. The timing of the surgery makes it highly unlikely that Belair will be ready to compete at WrestleMania, though a surprise appearance is still possible.

Why it matters

Belair is one of WWE's top stars, and her absence has been felt by fans who have been eagerly awaiting her return. The news of her finger surgery raises questions about her future plans, including the possibility of starting a family, which could further extend her time away from the ring.

The details

Belair suffered the finger injury during her WrestleMania 41 Triple Threat match against Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY. She has spoken publicly about the moment the injury occurred and the lingering pain that followed. While finger injuries typically don't sideline performers for long, Belair's case appears to be more complicated, requiring surgical intervention.

  • Belair suffered the finger injury during her WrestleMania 41 Triple Threat match.
  • Belair has not wrestled since WrestleMania 41, aside from a brief appearance as a special guest referee at Evolution.

The players

Bianca Belair

A former WWE champion and one of the company's top stars, who is now sidelined due to a finger injury that requires surgery.

Rhea Ripley

Belair's opponent in the WrestleMania 41 Triple Threat match, where the injury occurred.

IYO SKY

Belair's opponent in the WrestleMania 41 Triple Threat match, where the injury occurred.

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What they’re saying

“While recovery timelines vary, the timing of the procedure makes it highly unlikely she will be ready in time for a full WrestleMania build.”

— Steven Harrison, Wrestling Expert (athlonsports.com)

“If starting a family becomes a priority, her WWE return timeline could extend well beyond WrestleMania season.”

— Steven Harrison, Wrestling Expert (athlonsports.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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