WWE Raw After WrestleMania 42: Start Time, Preview, What to Expect

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WWE Raw After WrestleMania 42: Start Time, Preview, What to Expect

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Harrison | Last updated Apr 20, 2026 1:56 PM ET

WrestleMania 42 is officially in the history books.

The two-night event delivered surprises, title changes, and multiple passing-of-the-torch moments. Closing it out was Roman Reigns , who defeated CM Punk to win the World Heavyweight Championship and begin his seventh world title reign.

Now comes one of WWE’s most anticipated traditions: the Raw After WrestleMania.

Long known as the most unpredictable episode of the year, the show has evolved from a fan-driven phenomenon into a night WWE actively builds around—where returns, debuts, and major storyline shifts are all but expected.

Here’s what to know heading into tonight.

Roman Reigns celebrates after defeating CM Punk to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 42.Getty Images

What Time Does Raw Start Tonight?

Raw After WrestleMania begins at 8 p.m. ET (7 p.m. CT / 5 p.m. PT). The show takes place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, continuing WWE’s WrestleMania week presence in the city.

Where to Watch Raw Tonight

After a weekend spread across multiple platforms, Raw returns to its weekly home on Netflix.

Will SmackDown Stars Appear?

Trick Williams celebrates after winning the United States Championship at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.Getty Images

With the full roster in Las Vegas, crossover appearances are likely. Still, WWE typically spreads WrestleMania fallout across both brands, so some major developments—particularly involving Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Trick Williams—may be saved for Friday’s SmackDown.

NXT Call-Ups to Watch

The Raw After WrestleMania has become the most reliable stage for NXT call-ups, and this year should be no different.

Ethan Page is a strong candidate following his recent loss to Tony D’Angelo, while Jacy Jayne could also make her main roster debut. Other names to watch include Ricky Saints and Joe Hendry, though WWE may hold one or two surprises for later in the week.

Brock Lesnar Fallout

WWE is expected to acknowledge Brock Lesnar after his emotional retirement moment, when he left his gloves and boots in the ring following his loss to Oba Femi.

That also brings immediate focus to Oba Femi, whose win felt like a defining moment. His first appearance since WrestleMania could signal how quickly WWE plans to elevate him.

Bron Breakker’s Return

Another name to watch is Bron Breakker , who returned on Night One of WrestleMania. Still aligned with Paul Heyman, Breakker’s re-entry adds another major piece to WWE’s evolving main event picture.

Athlon Sports will have full coverage of Raw After WrestleMania throughout the night, including live updates, results, and breaking news.

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

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