Who Will Rule WrestleMania 42 in the Women’s Title Race?

The Queens of Vegas: Who Will Rule WrestleMania 42 in the Women’s Title Race?

The road to WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas (April 18th-19th, 2026) isn’t just about the men’s championships. The Women’s Royal Rumble 2026 in Riyadh will kickstart a fierce competition. Every superstar will vie for a spot in one of the two main event title matches at Allegiant Stadium.

The landscape is constantly shifting. It is fueled by recent returns, rising stars, and the undeniable force of champions. The question isn’t if the women will main event in Vegas, but who will stand victorious under the bright lights.

Here is an in-depth look at the top contenders. We will examine the reigning champions. Additionally, we will explore the compelling storylines that will define the Women’s Title Race for WrestleMania 42.

🏆 The Reigning Champions and Their Challengers

The current holders of the Women’s World Championship and the Women’s WWE Championship face a gauntlet of returning legends and relentless new threats.

1. Stephanie Vaquer: The Rising Star with a Target on Her Back

The Women’s World Champion, Stephanie Vaquer, has made an undeniable impact since her call-up from NXT. Her technical prowess and fierce demeanor have quickly established her as a formidable champion.

• The Becky Lynch Factor: Vaquer’s win over Becky Lynch for the title, potentially fueled by AJ Lee’s interference at WarGames, sets up an immediate, high-stakes rematch. Lynch, a proven main eventer, will be hungry for revenge and her path to WrestleMania 42 might involve reclaiming her championship.
• The Charlotte Flair Shadow: Charlotte Flair’s consistent presence in the title picture means she’s always a threat. A program with Vaquer could be a clash of styles and generations, elevating Vaquer even further.

2. The Dominant Force: Rhea Ripley’s Path to Vegas

As the current Women’s WWE Champion, Rhea Ripley continues her reign of terror. Her unparalleled strength and character work make her a constant main event fixture.

• Jade Cargill’s Challenge: The highly anticipated Jade Cargill vs. Rhea Ripley showdown is a dream match for many fans. If Cargill continues her dominant run and perhaps wins the Royal Rumble, a clash of titans at WrestleMania 42 for the Women’s WWE Championship is almost inevitable.
• The Betrayal Angle: A possible betrayal or internal conflict within The Judgment Day, perhaps involving Dominik Mysterio or Liv Morgan, could add a dramatic layer to Ripley’s title defense.

🌟 Royal Rumble Favorites and Breakthrough Candidates

The Royal Rumble in Riyadh will be the crucial turning point, offering a direct path to a WrestleMania 42 championship match.

Liv Morgan: The Ultimate Comeback Story

After a significant injury setback, Liv Morgan’s return is highly anticipated. Her emotional connection with the audience and her past championship success make her a prime candidate for a massive comeback.

• The Rumble Victory: A Royal Rumble victory would be the perfect vehicle for Morgan to re-establish herself at the top of the women’s division. The fans are ready for her to ascend again.
• Vengeance Arc: Depending on her return storyline, Morgan could target the champion who rose in her absence or seek revenge for past injustices.

Bianca Belair: The EST of WrestleMania

Bianca Belair is synonymous with WrestleMania, consistently delivering show-stealing performances. Her athletic prowess and charisma make her a perennial contender.

• Consistent Contender: Belair is always in the mix, and a Royal Rumble win would not be a surprise. She has unfinished business with many on the roster and a proven track record of delivering on the biggest stage.
• The Trilogy: If Belair were to face a returning Sasha Banks (Mercedes Moné) at WrestleMania 42, it would be a guaranteed classic and a potential main event.

Jade Cargill: The Next Big Thing

Jade Cargill has been steadily building momentum since her WWE debut. Her impressive physique and undeniable presence mark her as a future champion.

• Impact Player: Cargill is being presented as an unstoppable force. A strong showing at the Royal Rumble, perhaps even winning it, would solidify her as a credible threat to any champion.
• Dream Match Scenario: As mentioned, a clash with Rhea Ripley is highly anticipated and could easily headline one of the WrestleMania nights.

🎯 The Vegas Vision: Which Story Will Captivate?

The Women’s Title Race for WrestleMania 42 is poised to deliver multiple compelling narratives. WWE must decide which story has the greatest emotional resonance. They also need to consider which has the most mainstream appeal for the Las Vegas spectacle.

While a Rhea Ripley vs. Jade Cargill match promises an athletic spectacle, the most compelling long-term narrative points towards Liv Morgan winning the Royal Rumble. She will challenge Stephanie Vaquer for the Women’s World Championship. This sets the stage for a fresh, feel-good story of redemption. It is against a new, dominant champion. This creates a truly memorable WrestleMania moment in Las Vegas.