Rey Mysterio Confirmed for WrestleMania 42 Ladder Match After WWE RAW Return

Mysterio inserts himself into the Intercontinental Championship ladder match, raising the stakes for the high-risk contest.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:37am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the intense, high-flying action of a WWE ladder match, with the wrestlers' forms dissolving into dynamic brushstrokes and splatters of paint.The chaotic, high-risk atmosphere of a WWE ladder match explodes onto the canvas, capturing the unpredictable energy that will define the Intercontinental Championship showdown at WrestleMania 42.Las Vegas Today

In a surprise move on WWE RAW, veteran superstar Rey Mysterio returned from injury and inserted himself into the already loaded Intercontinental Championship ladder match at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. Mysterio spoke with RAW General Manager Adam Pearce and secured his spot in the multi-man contest, which will now feature champion Penta defending against Mysterio, Je'Von Evans, Dragon Lee, Rusev, and JD McDonagh.

Why it matters

Mysterio's addition to the ladder match changes the dynamic of an already high-stakes contest, bringing both his experience and unpredictability to the table. The match now features a mix of established names and rising talent, adding even more intrigue heading into WrestleMania weekend.

The details

The night on WWE RAW featured a six-man tag team match where Penta, Je'Von Evans, and Dragon Lee secured a victory over El Grande Americano and Los Americanos. However, the real moment came after the bell, when Mysterio's familiar theme hit and he addressed the situation directly in the ring. Mysterio revealed that he had spoken with RAW General Manager Adam Pearce and made the case for one more entrant in the already loaded ladder match — himself.

  • On April 6, Mysterio made his return on WWE RAW.
  • The Intercontinental Championship ladder match will take place at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas on April 27, 2026.

The players

Rey Mysterio

A veteran WWE superstar who has won multiple championships, including the Intercontinental title, and is known for his high-flying and risk-taking style.

Penta

The current Intercontinental Champion, who will now defend his title against Mysterio and several other competitors in the ladder match at WrestleMania 42.

Adam Pearce

The RAW General Manager, who approved Mysterio's request to be added to the Intercontinental Championship ladder match.

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What they’re saying

“Let's make history.”

— Penta, Intercontinental Champion

What’s next

The Intercontinental Championship ladder match at WrestleMania 42 will determine the new champion, with Mysterio's addition adding an extra layer of unpredictability and excitement to the high-risk contest.

The takeaway

Mysterio's surprise return and insertion into the WrestleMania 42 Intercontinental Championship ladder match raises the stakes for the already chaotic contest. The mix of veteran experience and rising talent promises a thrilling match that could produce a new champion and make history in the process.