A WWE Hall of Famer has shared concerns about the level of excitement surrounding WrestleMania 42 as the company prepares to return to Las Vegas for its biggest event of the year.
Last year’s WrestleMania 41 was widely praised by WWE and industry observers as the most successful event in the company’s history. However, speaking on Busted Open Radio, Bully Ray said he is not yet convinced that this year’s show will generate the same level of enthusiasm.
Ray pointed to what he described as relatively low fan excitement leading up to the event, citing ticket sales and social media reactions as signs that interest has not been as strong as expected.
“I know about the first quarter dividend being reported by TKO, and they’re making money hand over fist,” Ray said. “However, they’re in a spot right now. Enthusiasm isn’t exactly through the roof.”
Ray acknowledged that recent developments in WWE storylines could help boost interest, including Randy Orton‘s win in the Men’s Elimination Chamber, the ongoing Roman Reigns–CM Punk rivalry, and the arrival of Danhausen.
“Yes, things are lining up for them to switch this around, clean up the spilt milk, card subject to change, head in a different direction,” Ray said.
Bully Ray Says If WrestleMania 42 Doesn’t Impress, Fans Could Stop Watching The Product
Still, Bully Ray warned that if WrestleMania does not deliver a strong show, it could impact long-term fan engagement.
“If the WWE does not have a great WrestleMania, people are going to be like, ‘You know what? I’ve had my fill over the past four to five years. I think I’m going to give it a little bit of a break.’”
Some fans have pointed to increased ticket prices as a reason for declining interest, while others have criticised reported changes to WWE’s creative plans in recent weeks.
Ray suggested that shifting plans may actually help WWE regain momentum.
“Numbers were down at WrestleMania, about 8,000 short of where they were last year. Interest is kind of waning a little bit,” Ray said. “Let’s stop running the ball and let’s throw up some Hail Marys.”
He noted that WWE has recently made adjustments to its storylines, including moving Rhea Ripley back into the women’s title picture and pivoting toward Randy Orton challenging Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
According to reports, the Rhodes vs. Orton match came together in recent weeks after WWE moved away from other potential plans, including a multi-man championship match or a Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre rematch.
Elsewhere, Rhea Ripley secured a title opportunity against WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill after winning the Women’s Elimination Chamber match.
With WrestleMania 42 scheduled for April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium, Ray believes WWE still has time to build excitement if it fully commits to its creative direction in the weeks ahead.
