As WWE steps into 2026, the wrestling world is buzzing with anticipation—and a fair bit of skepticism. After a record-breaking 2025 in profits, the company stumbled creatively, leaving fans and critics alike wondering: Can WWE reclaim its magic this year? With AJ Styles and Austin Theory poised for career-defining moments, the stakes couldn’t be higher. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite its financial success, WWE’s creative decisions in 2025 left much to be desired, sparking debates about whether Triple H’s leadership is truly infallible. And this is the part most people miss: while the roster is stacked with talent, the company’s ability to deliver compelling storylines and matches remains in question.
WWE has a golden opportunity to win back its audience by addressing the missteps of the past year. But will it? From questionable booking to skyrocketing ticket prices that don’t match the product’s quality, the company has its work cut out. Expanding premium live events and adding more programming hours isn’t the answer—focusing on cohesive, engaging storylines is. With a star-studded roster, there’s no excuse for anything less than a fantastic year. But will WWE deliver?
Here are the 10 biggest unanswered questions as WWE enters 2026, each one a potential game-changer for the company’s future.
1. Will WWE’s Creative Direction Finally Improve?
After a creatively inconsistent 2025, WWE’s ability to rebound is under the microscope. Triple H’s early success as a booker seemed untouchable, but last year’s missteps—like John Cena’s retirement tour—proved otherwise. With Cena gone, WWE has a fresh slate, but can they capitalize? All Elite Wrestling’s rising popularity adds pressure, but WWE’s stacked roster should make compelling storytelling a no-brainer. The question remains: Will they rise to the occasion?
2. Who Attacked Jacob Fatu?
Jacob Fatu’s mysterious backstage attack on SmackDown has fans scratching their heads. Drew McIntyre was the obvious suspect, but his denial complicates matters. Randy Orton? Unlikely, given his absence from the show. With Fatu’s world title aspirations overdue, WWE needs to reveal the culprit—or risk this angle fading into obscurity. But here’s the twist: What if the attacker is someone completely unexpected? Could this be a red herring?
3. Can SmackDown Survive Three Hours?
WWE’s decision to expand SmackDown to three hours in 2026 feels like déjà vu. The show struggled with this format a year ago, creatively plummeting despite stable ratings. While the 2026 premiere featured exciting debuts and a title change, sustaining three hours will require more than new faces. Improved storylines and high-quality matches are a must. But will WWE prioritize SmackDown as much as Raw on Netflix? Fans are skeptical.
4. Will Chris Jericho Go Full-Time or Part-Time?
Chris Jericho’s return to WWE is all but confirmed, but the terms of his run are anyone’s guess. Will he make a surprise appearance on Raw or enter the Royal Rumble? A WrestleMania 42 match against LA Knight seems likely, but will Jericho stick around beyond that? At 55, a part-time schedule seems logical, but WWE’s reliance on part-timers makes a more regular role—like CM Punk’s—a better fit. The real question: Can Jericho still deliver at his age?
5. Is Austin Theory a Double Agent for Seth Rollins?
Austin Theory’s addition to The Vision was long overdue, but rumors suggest his stay might be short-lived. Fans speculate he’ll betray the group as a double agent for Seth Rollins, but this could muddy the waters. Are Rollins and Theory babyfaces, heels, or something in between? WWE might be better off keeping Rollins solo and letting Theory build momentum with The Vision. But if this experiment fails, could it be Theory’s last chance to shine?
6. Will AJ Styles’ Retirement Be a Big Deal?
John Cena’s retirement was a spectacle, but will AJ Styles get the same treatment? As one of the greatest wrestlers ever, Styles deserves a grand farewell—ideally at WrestleMania 42. A Royal Rumble win and a world title match would be perfect, but WWE might settle for a midcard spot. The question is: Will WWE give Styles the send-off he deserves, or will they drop the ball?
7. Will Brock Lesnar Actually Retire at SummerSlam?
Brock Lesnar’s potential retirement at SummerSlam has fans divided. With nothing left to prove, a grand sendoff in his home state of Minnesota makes sense. But Lesnar isn’t one for fanfare, and a return for the right price isn’t out of the question. Will Oba Femi or Bron Breakker be the one to end his career? Or will Lesnar’s retirement be as unpredictable as his in-ring style?
8. Will LA Knight Finally Reach the Top?
LA Knight has been a fan favorite for years, but WWE has kept him in the midcard. His rumored return at the Royal Rumble could be his moment to break through. Winning the Rumble, King of the Ring, or Money in the Bank would elevate him to the main event scene. But will WWE finally give him the push he deserves, or will he remain a midcard mainstay? The clock is ticking.
9. Will The Rock Wrestle Again?
The Rock’s sporadic appearances have left fans wondering if he’ll ever step back into the ring. WrestleMania 42 seems unlikely, but WrestleMania 43 in Saudi Arabia could be his retirement match. However, with no indication of his involvement in 2026, fans are losing hope. Will The Great One lace up his boots one last time, or is his in-ring career truly over?
10. Which Fresh Face Will Become the Biggest Star?
WWE’s influx of new talent could shake up the main event scene. While Joe Hendry and Sol Ruca are promising, Oba Femi, Trick Williams, and Je’Von Evans are the ones to watch. Femi, in particular, has the potential to dominate, possibly even facing Brock Lesnar. By year’s end, who will emerge as the biggest breakout star? The possibilities are endless.
Final Thoughts:
WWE’s 2026 is filled with potential, but the company must address these questions head-on to avoid another disappointing year. From creative direction to star power, the decisions made now will shape WWE’s future. But here’s the real question: Will WWE listen to its fans and make the changes needed to thrive? Only time will tell. What do you think? Which of these questions is most critical for WWE’s success? Let’s debate in the comments!
