John Cena to host WWE's 'WrestleMania 42'

The former 17-time world champion will return to WWE for the company's biggest annual event.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a WWE wrestling match or event, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form that capture the dynamic action and energy of the sport.The geometric, fractured style of Picasso's cubist paintings captures the raw energy and movement of a WWE wrestling event.

John Cena, the legendary 17-time WWE world champion, will be returning to the company to host its biggest annual event, WrestleMania 42, which will take place on April 18-19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

Why it matters

Cena's return to WWE for WrestleMania is a major event, as he is one of the most iconic and successful wrestlers in the company's history. His hosting duties will generate significant interest and excitement among WWE fans.

The details

Cena announced his WrestleMania hosting duties on X on Monday, alongside a video of himself on the set of his upcoming Netflix film, One Attempt Remaining. Cena retired from in-ring competition following his loss to Gunther at Saturday Night's Main Event in December.

  • Cena announced his WrestleMania hosting duties on March 30, 2026.
  • WrestleMania 42 will take place on April 18-19, 2026.

The players

John Cena

A former 17-time WWE world champion who is returning to the company to host its biggest annual event, WrestleMania 42.

Gunther

The wrestler who defeated Cena in his final match before retirement at Saturday Night's Main Event in December.

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What they’re saying

“Since retirement, my 'road' has looked a little different... but now I can officially say I'm headed to WrestleMania!!!! See you in Las Vegas!”

— John Cena

What’s next

Fans will be eagerly anticipating Cena's return to WWE and his hosting duties at WrestleMania 42, which is set to take place on April 18-19, 2026 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

The takeaway

John Cena's return to WWE for WrestleMania 42 is a highly anticipated event, as the former 17-time world champion is one of the most iconic and successful wrestlers in the company's history. His hosting duties will generate significant interest and excitement among WWE fans.