WWE Discussing Stipulations for Key WrestleMania 42 Matches

WrestleMania 42 is just weeks away — but behind the scenes, WWE may already be looking at ways to tweak the card to pull in more viewers.

According to WrestleVotes Radio on March 12, 2026, WWE officials are reportedly exploring “natural adjustments” to the WrestleMania 42 lineup — specifically the possibility of adding stipulations to some of the show’s marquee matches. Sources noted that the idea isn’t to overhaul the entire card, but rather to strategically add certain match types that could make the event more appealing to casual viewers.

The reported reasoning behind the move comes down to viewership strategy. WWE is looking for ways to turn people casually watching preview segments on traditional television into paying subscribers for the full broadcast.

One concept being discussed internally involves placing a stipulation match early in the show — particularly during the opening portion that may air as a preview on ESPN channels. The thinking is that a flashy or high-stakes match type could immediately grab viewers’ attention. By putting an eye-catching stipulation match in front of a wider audience, WWE hopes viewers will stick around long enough to transition from the preview segment into the full WrestleMania broadcast on ESPN.

In other words, the company wants the opening match to serve as a hook — something exciting enough to make casual viewers feel like they don’t want to miss the rest of the show. With WrestleMania 42 set for April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, WWE still has time to finalize the lineup. But if these discussions turn into reality, fans could see a few added twists to some of the biggest matches on the card.

Do you think adding stipulations to WrestleMania matches is a smart move to attract new viewers, or should WWE keep the show simple and let the rivalries carry the event? Let us know your thoughts below.