LAS VEGAS — Night 1 of WrestleMania 42 delivered exactly what fans expected and then some. Inside Allegiant Stadium, a packed crowd witnessed a seven-match card filled with title changes, shocking returns, and storyline twists that set the tone for the remainder of WWE’s biggest weekend.
In the night’s main event, Cody Rhodes retained the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton in a slow burning, methodical clash. The finish, however, was anything but traditional.
Pat McAfee initially removed from the equation after interference involving Jelly Roll reemerged as a key factor late. Orton’s attack on McAfee created a distraction, allowing Rhodes to capitalize with the Cross Rhodes for the win.
But the story didn’t end there. Rhodes leaned into a more aggressive and at times questionable style throughout the match, signaling a potential shift in character. Still, it was Orton who had the final word, standing tall after the bell and holding the championship over his fallen rival.
Paige Returns, Titles Change Hands
The biggest shock of the night came early. Paige made her long-awaited WWE return her first match since 2017 stepping in for the injured Nikki Bella. Teaming with Brie Bella, Paige delivered the decisive pinfall in a Fatal 4-Way to capture the Women’s Tag Team Championships.
The surprises didn’t stop there.
- Liv Morgan captured the Women’s World Championship
- Becky Lynch claimed the Women’s Intercontinental Championship
Both title matches featured outside interference and controversial finishes, suggesting their respective rivalries are far from over.
While titles changed hands, the best in-ring performances came outside the championship picture. Seth Rollins and Gunther delivered a technical, hard-hitting classic that lived up to its billing, further elevated by the return of Bron Breakker. Meanwhile, Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre brought pure chaos in an unsanctioned match that set the tone early in the night with its physical, no-rules brutality.
Cena Hosts, Belair Stuns
WrestleMania host John Cena announced an official attendance of 50,816 before being interrupted by one of the night’s most heartfelt moments.
Bianca Belair absent since WrestleMania 41 due to injury returned to reveal she is pregnant, drawing a massive ovation from the Las Vegas crowd and sparking an emotional highlight that transcended storylines.
Setting the Stage for Night 2
Night 1 delivered the drama, but it also raised questions.
- Is Rhodes beginning a darker turn?
- Will the women’s title changes hold—or flip again?
- What role will returning stars play in Night 2?
If Saturday was any indication, WrestleMania 42 is far from finished delivering moments.
Jai Herbert Survives Early Chaos, Finishes Nallo in Wild UFC Fight Night 273 Shootout
Welcome to Dice City Sports — where we provide premium, exclusive, up-to-date news and analysis surrounding the Las Vegas sports scene. Follow along on social media, and check back for new articles daily!
Robert LaMar is a Deputy Editor for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @RobertLaMar26
