
Backstage Update On Possible WWE WrestleMania Plans For Jacob Fatu
A new report suggests that WWE could have major plans for Jacob Fatu at WrestleMania 42. Fatu was not featured at Saturday's Elimination Chamber event.
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A new report suggests that WWE could have major plans for Jacob Fatu at WrestleMania 42. Fatu was not featured at Saturday's Elimination Chamber event.

Ryback announced on Twitter in February 2026 that he has moved past his anger toward WWE, stating he "made peace on my end" over a year ago and encouraging fans to let go of hate related to his issues with the company. The former WWE Intercontinental Champion, who previously made frequent public attacks against WWE leadership including Vince McMahon and Triple H, wrote that "staying angry forever only hurts ourselves" and urged people to "process things, tell your truth, then move forward."

WWE star Austin Theory has responded on social media to critics who say he's "missing something." Theory sent a message addressing those criticisms through his social media accounts.

Jey Uso addressed criticism of his WWE push during an ESPN First Take appearance, telling doubters to "stop hating" and encouraging them to watch his upcoming matches. The 2025 Royal Rumble winner qualified for the Men's Elimination Chamber match by defeating Bronson Reed and El Grande Americano in a Triple Threat match on RAW. Jey will compete in the Elimination Chamber this Saturday against Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, LA Knight, Trick Williams, and Je'Von Evans, with the winner earning an Undisputed WWE Championship match against Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42.

Randy Orton criticized some younger WWE talent for asking for his advice and then ignoring it during an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on February 26, 2026. Orton explained that while he has found fulfillment in mentoring young wrestlers later in his career, he gets frustrated when wrestlers ask him to watch their matches but don't implement any of his feedback. He praised Je'Von Evans and Trick Williams as examples of talent who genuinely want to learn and grow.

A major update on AJ Styles's WWE future indicates that any speculation about him unretiring and continuing his wrestling career elsewhere has been put to rest.

A federal judge denied Ted DiBiase Jr.'s second attempt to declare a mistrial in his criminal case related to Mississippi's welfare fraud scandal, despite his lead attorney Jason Scott Gilbert being sidelined by a serious medical emergency. DiBiase's co-counsel Eric Herschmann argued that proceeding without Gilbert would create legal disadvantages, as Herschmann was only retained for a limited role and is not familiar with the broader case details. DiBiase faces charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, theft of federal funds, and money laundering in connection with an alleged scheme involving more than $77 million in welfare funds.

AJ Styles says he never wanted to overstay his welcome in WWE and confirms he was not planning to wrestle elsewhere after his WWE retirement. Styles hoped to "beat the house" with his WWE departure timing.

WWE has confirmed several major stars for the February 27 SmackDown episode, including Cody Rhodes, Trick Williams, Je'Von Evans, Jey Uso, LA Knight, and Randy Orton, all of whom are scheduled to compete in the Elimination Chamber match where the winner will earn an Undisputed WWE Championship match against Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42. The show will also feature RHIYO (Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky) defending the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship against The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax & Lash Legend), plus matches including Solo Sikoa vs. Uncle Howdy, Candice LeRae vs. Jordynne Grace, and Oba Femi vs. The Miz.

A WWE star has pitched forming an alliance with Cody Rhodes for the Elimination Chamber Match taking place this Saturday in Chicago, IL. The specific WWE star who made this pitch was not identified in the report.

Former WWE star Shelly Martinez responded on Twitter to Kaitlyn's recent revelation about having private photos leaked without consent, stating she has experienced similar situations at autograph signings. Kaitlyn had detailed on her YouTube channel how private images were leaked and that fans have brought printed copies of those leaked photos to wrestling conventions for her to sign, calling the experience devastating and triggering. Martinez confirmed she has faced comparable situations, noting she once refused to sign such material and the fan reacted poorly to her refusal.
WWE is reportedly experiencing internal panic as WrestleMania approaches, with creative plans still unsettled due to injuries and constant changes that have disrupted original plans. According to WrestleVotes Radio, company officials are holding nonstop meetings under intense pressure to finalize the card, with sources indicating decisions must be made this week. The delays are creating ripple effects across multiple departments including marketing, merchandise, and promotional campaigns that depend on knowing the finalized matches.