WWE’s next major event leading up to WrestleMania 42 is the Elimination Chamber, where the victor will earn a world title opportunity at the biggest show of the year. Roman Reigns, having won the Royal Rumble, selected CM Punk as his opponent for the World Heavyweight Championship on the latest episode of WWE RAW.
During the broadcast, it was revealed that the qualifying match for the 2026 Elimination Chamber will take place on next week’s RAW (February 9th). While the competitors for this match have not yet been announced, there’s speculation that one of WWE’s top stars might be sidelined.
Rey Mysterio’s ability to compete in the Elimination Chamber and its qualifiers is now uncertain. Michael Cole disclosed on RAW that the WWE Hall of Famer sustained an injury during Saturday’s Royal Rumble. Although it remains unconfirmed if the injury is genuine, Mysterio was absent from ringside during the Penta vs. Bronson Reed match on RAW. He had forced his way into the Rumble despite injury concerns that almost prevented his participation.
Mysterio reportedly hurt his shoulder in a singles match against Austin Theory on RAW (January 26), where he was notably not involved in Vision’s post-match attack and the referee showed the “X” sign indicating potential injury. At 51 years old, the injury was initially thought to be minor enough for him to enter the Rumble, though he was eliminated just 2 minutes and 43 seconds in by Oba Femi. This came shortly after he returned from a seven-month hiatus due to a torn groin.
There’s currently no clarity about Rey’s status or qualification for the Elimination Chamber, but his son, Dominik Mysterio, might not have the same issues. Dominik, the Intercontinental Champion, returned to RAW last night and seems to have recovered from a shoulder injury sustained in December.
With Roman Reigns set to challenge CM Punk, the Elimination Chamber match becomes even more significant. The winner is likely to face the Undisputed WWE Champion at WrestleMania, who at the moment is Drew McIntyre. Although the title could change hands before WrestleMania, it appears McIntyre will defend his championship at the event in Allegiant Stadium, Paradise, Nevada.
Reports suggest WWE plans a third match between McIntyre and Cody Rhodes, after McIntyre sabotaged Rhodes during the Royal Rumble and attacked him with a Claymore kick from outside the ring. Rhodes is currently viewed as the frontrunner to win the Chamber and secure another shot against McIntyre. However, some fans have shown fatigue with the frequent top babyfaces from SmackDown.
Another potential twist WWE might introduce is adding Jacob Fatu to WrestleMania’s WWE Championship match, turning it into a triple threat. Fatu, who has been feuding with Rhodes lately, could inject fresh energy into the storyline. Winning the Chamber would elevate Fatu as a major player with a significant victory. Meanwhile, Rhodes might embark on a relentless pursuit to force his inclusion in the title picture, aligning with fan debates about there being too many opportunities handed out recently.
Fan Take: This upcoming Elimination Chamber event is crucial as it could shake up the WWE title scene and introduce new challengers, keeping the WrestleMania build fresh and unpredictable. For fans, it means high-stakes drama and the potential rise of new stars, which is essential for the sport’s ongoing excitement and evolution.
