5 First-time things that must happen in WWE in 2026

The landscape of WWE is shifting at a breakneck pace.

With new eras dawning and legends like John Cena finishing their final chapters, and some other active stars of his generation to possibly follow suit soon, 2026 is expected to be the year where the next generation finally stakes its claim in the Stamford-based promotion.

From long-overdue Grand Slam milestones to the crowning of new faces for the company, here are five first-time moments that must happen in 2026:

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#5. Sheamus could finally win the WWE Intercontinental Championship

It has become the most storied chase in modern WWE history. The Celtic Warrior has done it all, except for this. Despite having a title-filled career, Sheamus has yet to lift the Intercontinental Championship, which is the final piece of the puzzle to making him a Grand Slam Champion.

After classic "bangers" with names like Gunther, Bron Breakker, and Rusev in recent years, fans suggest that 2026 should be the year Sheamus finally hoists the Intercontinental Title.

Not only does he deserve it for his longevity, but the "Grand Slam Sheamus" pop would likely be one of the loudest of the decade.

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#4. Sami Zayn could become a WWE World Champion

Sami Zayn has been the emotional heartbeat of WWE since The Bloodline Saga began. Despite headlining WrestleMania 39 and holding multiple mid-card titles, a World Title has remained just out of reach. Hence, fans expect the company to change that in 2026.

Zayn potentially winning a World Championship wouldn't just be a victory for him, but a victory for the fans who have followed his journey from NXT to the main roster.

Whether it’s a hard-fought battle at a weekly show or a crowning moment at a PLE like SummerSlam or WrestleMania, the 41-year-old reaching the pinnacle would put a feather on the cap of a wonderful fairytale.

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#3. LA Knight could capture his first World Championship in WWE

LA Knight has proven that his popularity isn't a flash in the pan. He has merchandise sales and the crowd reactions to back up being massively over with the WWE Universe.

While The Megastar has already found success with the United States Championship, 2026 could be the year where he finally conquers a World Title, which has eluded him every time he's been in with a shout.

Having Knight win the World Heavyweight Championship may provide a fresh dynamic at the top of the card on RAW. This is because his promos as a champion could be a must-see for fans, and his "YEAH!" movement is seemingly the perfect engine to drive the red brand's ratings through the roof.

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#2. Dominik Mysterio could climb to the top of the mountain

Dominik Mysterio appears to be the most natural heel in the business today. He has transitioned from being just Rey Mysterio's son to a mainstay attraction. By 2026, the heat surrounding Dominik could be at a boiling point, making it the perfect time for the creative team to pull the trigger on crowning him a World Champion.

Having 'Dirty' Dom win his first World Title could establish him as a top villain for years to come and possibly serve as a powerful "I told you so" victory for The Judgment Day member.

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#1. Bron Breakker could win the Royal Rumble

Since his debut, Bron Breakker has been a human wrecking ball. Many believe he has the speed, power, and lineage to be the face of WWE. However, to truly cement him as the chosen one, he might need a definitive, historic achievement.

Fans suggest that in 2026, Breakker should win his first Royal Rumble match. Entering early and outlasting over 20-25 other superstars to punch his ticket to WrestleMania 42 could be the ultimate achievement.

Since winning the Royal Rumble is that one major accolade that could be used to put a rocket on his back and catapult him to enter the main event of 'Mania 42, that is exactly what the promotion should do.

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Edited by Sayantan Niyogi