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The annual WWE Elimination Chamber event is set to descend upon Chicago on February 28, 2026, marking a pivotal juncture on the Road to WrestleMania 42. Live from the city often dubbed "The Second City," the event will stream exclusively on ESPN Unlimited, with the main card commencing at 6 p.m. ET. This year’s Elimination Chamber is highlighted by a world championship defense, two titular Elimination Chamber matches promising direct pathways to WrestleMania, and a highly anticipated Women’s Intercontinental Championship bout.
CM Punk, the reigning World Heavyweight Champion, returns to his hometown for a high-stakes defense against Finn Balor. The match serves as a crucial test for Punk, with Royal Rumble winner Roman Reigns awaiting the World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas. Punk’s championship reign, which began at the Royal Rumble where he defeated Seth Rollins, has seen him successfully defend the title against various challengers, solidifying his status at the top of the Raw brand. His return to Chicago as champion adds a significant layer of personal narrative to this already intense rivalry.
The animosity between Punk and Balor escalated following their initial championship encounter in Balor’s home nation of Ireland. Despite a hard-fought contest that saw Punk retain, the initial post-match show of respect between the two quickly dissolved. Balor, a former Universal Champion and a key figure within The Judgment Day faction, was reportedly fueled by accusations of complacency from his stablemate, Liv Morgan, prompting a renewed aggression in his pursuit of championship gold. When Raw General Manager Adam Pearce denied Balor an immediate rematch, the challenger took matters into his own hands, orchestrating a series of confrontational attacks on Punk, ultimately provoking the champion into granting the rematch at Elimination Chamber. Balor’s calculated tactics have positioned him for another shot at a world title, a pursuit that has been a consistent theme for him since his return from injury in 2022.
Beyond the World Heavyweight Championship, two Elimination Chamber matches are scheduled, with the winners earning world title opportunities at WrestleMania 42. These formidable steel structures, known for their unforgiving nature, feature six competitors locked within individual pods, entering the fray at timed intervals. The last competitor standing in each match will punch their ticket to WWE’s flagship event.
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In the men’s Elimination Chamber match, the stakes are an undisputed WWE title shot at WrestleMania. Two competitors have already secured their places: Randy Orton and LA Knight. Orton, a fourteen-time world champion and a future Hall of Famer, qualified by overcoming Aleister Black and Solo Sikoa in a grueling triple threat match. His veteran prowess and experience in high-pressure situations make him a perennial threat. LA Knight, who has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity over the past year, earned his spot by defeating Austin Theory and Penta. Knight’s charismatic appeal and in-ring tenacity have made him a fan favorite, and his inclusion in the Chamber underscores his main event aspirations.
The remaining four spots in the men’s Chamber are subject to ongoing qualifying matches, each featuring a trio of elite competitors. One highly anticipated qualifier pits Cody Rhodes, Jacob Fatu, and Sami Zayn against each other. Rhodes, "The American Nightmare," has been on a two-year quest to finish his story and capture the Undisputed WWE Championship, a title that has eluded him despite consecutive main event appearances at WrestleMania. His journey has resonated deeply with the WWE Universe, making him a strong favorite in any contest. Jacob Fatu, a recent and impactful acquisition from the independent circuit, brings a unique blend of power and agility, along with the undeniable legacy of the Samoan Dynasty. His presence immediately adds a new dynamic to the main event scene. Sami Zayn, a former Undisputed Tag Team Champion and a fan favorite, consistently demonstrates his ability to perform at the highest level, making this triple threat match a potential show-stealer.
Another qualifying match features Gunther, Dominik Mysterio, and Je’Evon Evans. Gunther, renowned for his dominant and record-breaking Intercontinental Championship reign, possesses a formidable blend of striking and mat wrestling, making him a dangerous contender for any world title. Dominik Mysterio, a member of The Judgment Day, has perfected his role as a antagonist, consistently drawing the ire of the audience. His presence in such a high-stakes match would undoubtedly add a layer of unpredictability. Je’Evon Evans, a rising star from NXT, has garnered attention for his innovative offense and athletic prowess, and a victory here would signal a significant breakthrough onto the main roster’s championship picture.
The women’s Elimination Chamber match carries equally high stakes, with the winner earning a shot at either the Raw Women’s Championship or the SmackDown Women’s Championship at WrestleMania. This choice is particularly intriguing given that Royal Rumble winner Liv Morgan has yet to declare which champion she will challenge. Rhea Ripley, a dominant force and former Women’s World Champion, has already secured her spot, demonstrating her power and ruthlessness by overcoming Lyra Valkyria and Ivy Nile in a qualifying match on Raw. Her physical dominance and main event experience make her a top contender. Tiffany Stratton, a former NXT Women’s Champion, qualified by defeating Lash Legend and Chelsea Green on SmackDown. Stratton’s athleticism, charisma, and rapid ascent through the ranks position her as a strong challenger for a world title opportunity.
The remaining four slots in the women’s Chamber will be filled by winners of upcoming qualifying matches. Alexa Bliss, a multi-time women’s champion making a highly anticipated return, will face Giulia and Zelina Vega. Bliss’s past success and unique character could make her a dark horse. Giulia, an acclaimed international superstar recently signed by WWE, brings a reputation for intense in-ring competition and a devoted following. Her debut in such a high-profile match could signal a significant shift in the women’s division. Zelina Vega, known for her strategic mind and LWO affiliation, has consistently challenged for championships and could surprise.
Another women’s qualifier pits Asuka, Bayley, and Nattie (Natalya) against each other. Asuka, "The Empress of Tomorrow," is a former Raw and SmackDown Women’s Champion, known for her unique submission style and striking ability. Bayley, the leader of Damage CTRL and a Grand Slam Champion, is a seasoned veteran with a deep understanding of high-stakes competition. Her recent internal struggles within Damage CTRL could add an unpredictable element. Natalya, a cornerstone of the women’s division and a Guinness World Record holder for most matches by a female in WWE history, brings unparalleled experience and technical skill to the contest.
Adding to the Chicago homecoming theme, the Women’s Intercontinental Championship will be defended as Becky Lynch faces AJ Lee. Both competitors are immensely popular, with the match representing a significant moment for Lee, who seeks to join her husband, CM Punk, as an active champion. Lee’s return to the ring after a decade-long retirement has been met with widespread acclaim. Since her comeback, she holds a 2-0 record against Lynch, having defeated her in a mixed tag team match and a WarGames bout, demonstrating her immediate impact and undiminished skill. Lynch, "The Man," a multiple-time world champion and one of WWE’s most decorated stars, holds the prestigious Women’s Intercontinental Title. The match was reportedly initiated by Lynch, but only agreed upon after Lee, demonstrating her unwavering determination, refused to wrestle her otherwise, underscoring the personal animosity and competitive drive between these two iconic figures.
Looking ahead to the Undisputed WWE Championship landscape, current champion Drew McIntyre faces a complex path to WrestleMania. While Cody Rhodes remains a strong favorite to challenge McIntyre, a compelling narrative is also forming around Jacob Fatu. WWE’s booking, which placed Rhodes and Fatu in the same Elimination Chamber qualifying match, has subverted expectations, suggesting multiple potential avenues for the Undisputed WWE Title. McIntyre, who captured the title from Seth Rollins at Survivor Series, has cultivated a persona of a relentless, dominant champion, and his reign has been marked by a series of hard-fought defenses. Analysts suggest that even if Fatu does not win his qualifying match, his powerful presence and connection to the Samoan Dynasty could see him orbit McIntyre in the coming months, potentially setting up a separate title opportunity. This intricate web of rivalries and championship aspirations guarantees a thrilling build to WrestleMania 42, with the Elimination Chamber serving as a critical proving ground for all involved.
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