• Spoiler On WWE’s Plan For Major Heel Turn
WWE’s long-term creative direction includes Rhea Ripley eventually turning heel on IYO SKY, according to WrestleVotes Live on Fightful Select.
The pairing of Ripley and IYO SKY is expected to remain intact through WrestleMania 42, with WWE deliberately taking a slow-burn approach rather than rushing a split. The belief shared was that keeping them aligned allows WWE to maximize their value as a team before pivoting to a singles program.
IYO SKY was described as firmly positioned as a top babyface, making her a natural target for a heel turn from Ripley down the line. The dynamic between the two was framed as one built on jealousy and shifting perception, particularly as IYO’s popularity and standing continue to grow.
Rather than unfolding before WrestleMania, the turn is expected to happen afterward, setting up a major women’s singles program in the months that follow. WrestleMania was discussed as a checkpoint rather than the payoff, with WWE using the event to further establish the partnership before breaking it apart.
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• Current Plan For CM Punk At Elimination Chamber 2026
The road to WrestleMania 42 might feature a massive detour through Chicago for CM Punk. Even though his main-event clash with Roman Reigns is already official, the World Heavyweight Champion looks set to defend his gold one more time at Elimination Chamber.
According to WrestleVotes Radio on Fightful Select, WWE has discussed a high-stakes title defense featuring Punk against Finn Balor. The former Universal Champion has remained fixated on the World Title despite falling short in their last televised encounter on January 19. While Balor has been noticeably absent from the ring since that loss, his hunt for the championship is far from over.
The location of the event is the driving force behind this potential matchup. Since Elimination Chamber is taking place in Chicago, WWE has always planned for Punk to be a centerpiece of the card.
Sean Ross Sapp noted that one creative pitch involves Punk offering Balor a rematch on “his turf” as a follow-up to their recent battle in Ireland. After competing in Balor’s home country, the narrative would see Punk daring Balor to try and take the title in Chicago.
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