WrestleMania 42: The Vegas Takeover

WWE is returning to Las Vegas for WrestleMania 42, cementing the entertainment capital as the global hub of professional wrestling. For fans heading to the city, the weekend offers far more than just the main event. Here is a breakdown of the essential happenings scheduled during this massive celebration.


Official WWE Programming

  • SmackDown Before WrestleMania: Taking place at T-Mobile Arena on Friday, this event follows last year’s successful rebranding of the pre-Mania Friday show.
  • WWE Hall of Fame 2026: Hosted at Dolby Live at Park MGM on Friday, April 17, the ceremony will induct figures such as AJ Styles, Stephanie McMahon, and the legendary group Demolition.
  • Kill Tony: WrestleMania: Tony Hinchcliffe returns on Saturday, April 18, at Dolby Live for a live show featuring wrestlers and managers testing their comedic chops.
  • Gronk Beach: WrestleMania After Dark: The official afterparty will be held at The Cosmopolitan’s Marquee nightclub on Sunday, hosted by Rob Gronkowski.
  • Raw After WrestleMania: Returning to T-Mobile Arena on Monday, this high-energy show remains a staple for post-event storylines and surprises.

Independent Wrestling Showcases

The indie scene is stronger than ever during Mania weekend. Notable events include:

“Independent promotions offer a necessary alternative to the major corporate spectacle, often delivering more intimate, high-octane action for the hardcore fanbase.”

  • New Texas Pro Wrestling: Their “Sin City Stampede” at Bizarre Bar (April 16) features several championship bouts.
  • RISE Underground: For fans of ultraviolent deathmatch wrestling, this show at The Dive Bar on April 16 promises an intense atmosphere.
  • WrestleCon Supershow: A massive event at the Horseshoe on April 16 featuring stars like Ricochet and Bandido.
  • GCW Events: Game Changer Wrestling dominates the schedule, with standout shows including Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XV (April 17) and Joey Janela’s Spring Break X (April 17).
  • Stardom: The premier all-women Japanese promotion brings the “American Dream 2026” show to the Pearl Theater on April 17.

Fan Events, Conventions, and Parties

Beyond the ring, fans can participate in a variety of auxiliary events across the city:

  • Mick Foley’s 40 Years: The wrestling legend performs his one-man show at Ghostbar on April 15.
  • WrestleCon: Held at the Horseshoe from Thursday through Sunday, this massive convention offers autograph sessions and meet-and-greets with hundreds of stars.
  • Ric Flair at Wynn: The 16-time world champion makes a special appearance at the Encore Beach Club on April 18.
  • Circa Mania: Stadium Swim at the Circa Resort will host massive pool-side watch parties throughout the weekend.
  • RVD’s Afterparty: Rob Van Dam hosts an event at The Nerd on Sunday, April 19, to cap off the weekend festivities.