Getty Images

Could WWE Strip Penta of the Intercontinental Title Before WrestleMania 42?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Manuel Meza Cienfuegos | Last updated Apr 9, 2026 12:35 PM ET

We are just days away from WrestleMania 42, which promises to be an unprecedented event for WWE despite the criticism the company has faced in recent months. Confirmed for this marquee event is Penta, who is currently the Intercontinental Champion.

However, there is some uncertainty and secrecy surrounding what will happen with El Zero Miedo heading into WrestleMania 42, as reports suggest he could arrive at the event without the WWE Intercontinental Championship. What is known about Penta's immediate future?

Penta makes his entrance during Monday Night RAW at Madison Square Garden on March 30, 2026, in New York, New York. Getty Images

Could Penta Lose the Intercontinental Championship Before WrestleMania 42?

The first thing to keep in mind is that WrestleMania 42 takes place next weekend, April 18 and 19. A ladder match is scheduled for the event in which Penta will defend his Intercontinental title against four midcard wrestlers.

However, this same weekend, Penta will defend the Intercontinental Championship at an AAA event taking place at the Juan de la Barrera gym against El Hijo del Vikingo, who, according to rumors, could also be part of WrestleMania 42 -- though nothing is official at this point.

Given this situation, speculation has emerged that WWE could strip Penta of the belt and give it to El Vikingo, with El Zero Miedo then reclaiming it at WrestleMania 42. It should be noted, however, that these are theories that have no official backing from the wrestling company at this time.

In this ladder match, in addition to Penta and the possible participation of El Hijo del Vikingo, wrestlers such as JD McDonagh, Rey Mysterio, Rusev, Je'Von Evans, and Mexican star Dragon Lee are also set to compete.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: