5 WWE stars who must be at SummerSlam 2026 after missing WrestleMania 42

A number of prominent WWE stars, who are currently popular with fans, were unexpectedly absent from WrestleMania 42 this year, despite many expecting their participation.

Several of these stars are either current champions or have held titles in 2026, yet they missed their chance to shine at the Show of Shows, much to the surprise of many. The WWE roster, consisting of both young and veteran talent, couldn’t accommodate all stars, even with a two-night WrestleMania event.

With SummerSlam approaching, WWE has another chance to put together a two-night event. It would be great to see some of the major stars who missed out on the Showcase of the Immortals perform at the Biggest Party of the Summer. This article highlights five wrestlers who should appear at SummerSlam.

WWE United States Champion Tiffany Stratton

Tiffany Stratton made her return to WWE earlier this year after recovering from an injury and quickly claimed the Women’s United States Championship, which she still holds. Stratton participated in the Elimination Chamber match at the event of the same name, ultimately won by Rhea Ripley. Then-WWE Champion Jade Cargill expressed surprise in an interview that Ripley won instead of Stratton.

Unfortunately for Stratton, she had to compete against Giulia on SmackDown the night before WrestleMania 42. Now holding the US Title, she has the opportunity to feud with several women, including Jade Cargill and former rival Chelsea Green, making it unlikely she’ll miss SummerSlam.

Chad Gable

Chad Gable has returned to his own persona in WWE after playing the Original El Grande Ameriano Luchador. During WrestleMania season, Gable was preparing for a mask vs. mask match on AAA Worldwide against Ludwig Kaiser, the other El Grande Americano. Despite their frequent TV appearances, Gable, Kaiser, and other luchadors didn’t secure a spot on the WrestleMania 42 card.

After losing the mask vs. mask match and being unmasked per the stipulation, Gable can now pursue other rivalries. WWE is reportedly planning a feud between him and Sami Zayn, who recently lost his WWE title to CM Punk, for SummerSlam. Featuring Gable at SummerSlam, given his current popularity with fans, would be a wise decision for the company.

The Street Profits

The Street Profits made a significant comeback on WWE TV, immediately impacting by feuding with the Vision, especially Logan Paul and Austin Theory, who were Tag Team Champions at that time. They eventually captured the titles a couple of weeks ago by defeating Theory and Bron Breakker, who substituted for an injured Logan Paul.

However, the Profits have since lost their titles, as the Vision reclaimed them last Monday on RAW, aided unexpectedly by Maxxine Dupri. Dupri has officially joined the faction and is now Austin Theory’s on-screen girlfriend.

The Street Profits may attempt to regain their titles or possibly break up as a team. Regardless, these talented stars should feature at SummerSlam.

Bron Breakker

Bron Breakker endured a hernia following the Royal Rumble, forcing WWE to repeatedly alter plans for the Unpredictable Badass at WrestleMania 42. Although Breakker made an appearance at the event, it was only to spear Seth Rollins and start a rivalry, which was postponed due to injuries to both men at different times.

Breakker now holds the World Tag Team Championship with Austin Theory, and they are expected to face challengers for their titles at SummerSlam. Whether it’s the Street Profits seeking a rematch or another tag team, Breakker must be part of the SummerSlam card, given his status as one of the company’s promising rising stars.

Carmelo Hayes

Carmelo Hayes is perhaps the most notable wrestler fans believe was unjustly excluded from the Show of Shows. Hayes captured the United States Title by defeating Ilja Dragunov in an open challenge and enjoyed a successful title run. However, things changed when Sami Zayn took the title from him, inadvertently aided by Trick Williams.

Zayn then faced Williams at WrestleMania 42 as the United States Champion, ultimately losing on the night of ‘Mania. This sidelined Hayes, and while he has shared segments with Williams, his former NXT rival, a proper feud between them would be ideal for SummerSlam. If not, Hayes should still appear in some capacity, as fans will likely grow frustrated with WWE if he doesn’t.

It will be intriguing to see how these stars might participate in SummerSlam, should they be included.

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Edited by Harikesh Shekhar