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John Cena Confirms WrestleMania 42 Role in Major WWE Update

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Harrison | Last updated Mar 30, 2026 10:34 AM ET

John Cena revealed in a video posted across WWE’s social media platforms that he will serve as the guest host of WrestleMania 42. The announcement provides a major boost to WrestleMania weekend, as it will mark Cena’s first appearance on WWE television since his retirement.

WWE first introduced the guest host concept when Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson headlined WrestleMania 27 in that role—an appearance that ultimately set the stage for his blockbuster match with Cena the following year.

The guest host role can vary from a brief cameo to a pivotal presence woven into the show’s biggest storylines. Either way, Cena’s involvement instantly elevates the event, making him one of its top attractions. Even without competing in the ring or wearing his traditional gear, his return promises a special, must-see moment for the WWE Universe.

John Cena will guest host WrestleMania 42.Getty Images

WWE WrestleMania 42 Match Card

World Heavyweight Championship
CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns

Undisputed WWE Championship
Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton

WWE Women’s Championship
Jade Cargill (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

Women’s World Championship
Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Liv Morgan

“The Beast” vs. “The Ruler”
Brock Lesnar vs. Oba Femi

Women’s Intercontinental Championship
AJ Lee (c) vs. Becky Lynch

United States Championship
Sami Zayn (c) vs. Trick Williams

Unsanctioned Match
Drew McIntyre vs. Jacob Fatu

How to Watch WrestleMania 42

Dates: Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, 2026
Main Card Start Time: 6:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. CT / 3:00 p.m. PT
Location: Allegiant Stadium — Las Vegas, Nevada

Streaming:

United States: ESPN
International: Netflix

WWE has also announced that the first hour of WrestleMania Saturday will air on ESPN2, while the first hour of WrestleMania Sunday will stream on ESPN. Full coverage of both nights will be available via the ESPN app with the ESPN Unlimited plan.

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

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