WrestleMania Returns to the "Big Easy": New Orleans to Host WrestleMania 42 in 2026
New Orleans, Louisiana – The vibrant city of New Orleans, renowned for its captivating culture, music, and food, will once again become the epicenter of the wrestling world as WrestleMania 42 descends upon the Caesars Superdome in 2026.
This announcement marks the third time New Orleans has had the honor of hosting the "Granddaddy of Them All," an event that draws millions of viewers and wrestling enthusiasts worldwide. WrestleMania 34, held at the same venue in 2018, left an indelible mark on the city and its passionate wrestling fanbase.
The two-night extravaganza, scheduled for April 11 and 12, 2026, promises to be an unforgettable spectacle, showcasing the biggest stars and most iconic storylines in WWE. It is also a testament to the city’s unwavering support for professional wrestling and its ability to host major sporting events on a grand scale.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a WWE icon and member of the TKO board, expressed his excitement for the return of WrestleMania to New Orleans.
"Finally, WrestleMania is coming back to New Orleans," Johnson proclaimed in a recent news release. "Next year, 2026, WrestleMania 42, live from the Superdome in one of the greatest cities on earth, New Orleans, Louisiana."
The enthusiasm for WrestleMania 42 extends beyond the wrestling community, with Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry enthusiastically embracing the event’s return to New Orleans.
"We are ecstatic to host WrestleMania 42 in New Orleans next year," Landry declared. "Hosting this iconic event three times in the last 12 years is an honor we do not take lightly. I want to congratulate the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation for their successful efforts on this project. We look forward to showing WWE fans from around the world all our great state has to offer."
In addition to the main event, New Orleans will also play host to other marquee WWE events surrounding WrestleMania 42, including Monday Night Raw, Friday Night SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver, WWE World, and the prestigious WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.
The announcement was initially made by The Rock himself during the latest episode of Friday Night SmackDown, which was held at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
The Rock’s appearance on SmackDown featured a captivating confrontation with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, setting the stage for a captivating storyline leading up to WrestleMania 42.
"The Show" claimed he wanted Rhodes to become "his champion," subtly hinting at a potential alliance or mentorship role.
Rhodes, for his part, has a crucial decision to make, as The Rock’s offer comes at a pivotal moment in his career. The nature of their relationship and its impact on the road to WrestleMania 42 remain to be seen, adding an intriguing layer of suspense to the upcoming event.
The anticipation for WrestleMania 42 is already palpable, with fans around the world eager to witness the action and experience the unique atmosphere of New Orleans. The city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and passionate wrestling fans are sure to make this edition of WrestleMania an unforgettable spectacle for all who attend.
