It's only October, but WWE is already looking ahead to WrestleMania 43. However, with so much uncertainty surrounding Crown Jewel, the company has a lot to deal with as 2026 starts winding down.
In our latest WWE rumor roundup, we have updates on Roman Reigns vs. Oba Femi, claims about Kevin Owens' frustration over the Saudi Arabia situation, and new speculation about Rusev's WWE return.
You'll also find the latest on Rey Mysterio's potential retirement, Nikki Bella's growing stock backstage, and why WWE is willing to frequently change its women's tag team champions...
- According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Roman Reigns vs. Oba Femi is currently pencilled in to headline Night Two of WrestleMania 43. However, plans for Night One appear to be less settled. Despite recent speculation about CM Punk vs. Cody Rhodes closing the show, that is reportedly "not the current plan."
- Jonathan Coachman has shared an interesting update on WWE's plans for Crown Jewel amid the uncertainty surrounding the company's trip to Saudi Arabia. Speaking on Two Count Tuesday, Coachman claimed a source told him WWE will simply cancel the show and hold it at a later date if the company cannot travel to Riyadh. He also alleged that several wrestlers backstage are unhappy with the situation, specifically naming Kevin Owens as one of those frustrated by the uncertainty.
- Rusev could reportedly be on his way back to WWE, with Self Made Pro claiming the current plan is for him to form a stable alongside Ethan Page and Big Cass. That is an interesting development given recent speculation that Cass has taken the spot originally earmarked for Rusev before the latter suffered an injury.
- Michin and B-Fab's WWE Women's Tag Team Championship victory reportedly had a specific purpose, with the company looking to breathe some life into the division. According to WrestleVotes, WWE wants to "stimulate the tag team division" and is willing to "hot potato" the titles when there is not much else happening in the division.
- The Rock's public praise for AEW President Tony Khan has reportedly continued to generate discussion backstage in WWE. According to the Wrestling Observer, The Final Boss' comments in his tribute to PAC remain a talking point within the company. The Rock sent a message of support to PAC, the Satterley family and the AEW family, but it's his praise for Khan that's raised eyebrows.
- Rey Mysterio could be preparing to bring his legendary wrestling career to a close, with recent reports suggesting WWE is already discussing the possibility of a 2027 retirement. The Wrestling Observer has now shared an update, noting that a retirement tour for the WWE Hall of Famer is "quite possible."
- Nikki Bella is reportedly making a strong impression backstage in WWE, with her social media engagement and merchandise sales said to have exceeded expectations. According to WrestleVotes Radio, a source told the outlet that Bella is “drawing praise” for the impressive social media numbers she generates each week, and WWE now plans to put a "bigger spotlight" on Bella moving forward.