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Asuka vs. IYO SKY WrestleMania 42 Match Uncertain
WWE may move the bout to Backlash 2026 due to scheduling constraints.
Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:18pm
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The uncertainty surrounding the Asuka vs. IYO SKY match at WrestleMania 42 reflects the complex logistical challenges WWE faces in balancing its premium live event programming.Las Vegas TodayThe status of a potential match between Asuka and IYO SKY at WrestleMania 42 is currently uncertain, with reports indicating that WWE may move the bout to a later event, potentially Backlash 2026, due to scheduling constraints on the second night of WrestleMania.
Why it matters
The match between the two former Damage CTRL partners has been building for months, and shifting it to a later event could impact the narrative development and momentum of the feud. Additionally, the uncertainty highlights the logistical challenges WWE faces in structuring the WrestleMania 42 card across two nights.
The details
According to reports, the decision to potentially move the Asuka vs. IYO SKY match from WrestleMania 42 to Backlash 2026 stems from concerns over the runtime of the second night of the event. The current WrestleMania 42 Night Two card features six announced matches, and adding a seventh bout may not be practical. The match was previously expected to serve as the 14th and final match across the two-night event, but it was not included when WWE announced the full cards on April 7.
- WrestleMania 42 is scheduled for April 18-19, 2026 in Las Vegas.
- Backlash 2026 is scheduled for May 9, 2026.
The players
Asuka
A Japanese professional wrestler currently signed to WWE.
IYO SKY
A Japanese professional wrestler currently signed to WWE and a former member of the Damage CTRL stable.
Kairi Sane
A Japanese professional wrestler who has been involved in the storyline between Asuka and IYO SKY.
Nikki
A WWE superstar whose uncertain health status may be impacting the decision to move the Asuka vs. IYO SKY match.
What they’re saying
“Moving the match to Backlash, which is scheduled for May 9, 2026, could be more than just a contingency.”
— Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer Newsletter
What’s next
If the match is moved to Backlash 2026, WWE will have additional time to further develop the narrative between Asuka and IYO SKY, as their feud has been building since the breakup of the Damage CTRL stable.
The takeaway
The uncertainty surrounding the Asuka vs. IYO SKY match at WrestleMania 42 highlights the logistical challenges WWE faces in structuring its premium live events, particularly when trying to balance the duration and content of a two-night WrestleMania. The potential shift to Backlash 2026 could allow the company to better manage the runtime of WrestleMania 42 while maintaining the momentum of the Asuka-IYO SKY feud.
