As of February 10, it’s hard to believe that Bianca Belair — one of WWE’s brightest stars — still hasn’t been cleared to return to in-ring action. The injury she sustained at WrestleMania 41 has taken longer to heal than expected, casting uncertainty over her status for WrestleMania 42 in April.
The E-S-T’s absence has left a noticeable void in the women’s division, and while backstage updates suggest there’s hope for her return, nothing has been confirmed just yet.
Bianca Belair’s Injury: What We Know
Belair suffered a broken knuckle during her high-stakes Triple Threat Match against Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY at WrestleMania 41. Initially, the injury didn’t seem like a long-term issue. But according to recent reports from BodySlam, complications during the recovery process have dragged things out far longer than anticipated.
A source described her rehab as “rough,” adding that they’d “never seen anything like it.” Despite the setback, it’s said that Belair has remained positive and focused on her recovery — a testament to the same resilience that made her a former Raw, SmackDown, and NXT Women’s Champion.
Her Surprise WWE Evolution Appearance
Though she’s been out of action for nearly a year, Belair did appear at WWE Evolution as the special guest referee for the No Holds Barred Match between Jade Cargill and Naomi. The appearance reignited buzz about her eventual return — especially given her history with Cargill, both as rivals and allies.
Royal Rumble 2026: A Missed Opportunity
Belair was widely expected to return — and possibly win — the Women’s Royal Rumble Match last month. She was even the betting favorite leading into the event. But she didn’t show up at all, leaving fans shocked and disappointed.
WWE reportedly has her listed internally with “no return date designated,” which signals just how unpredictable her recovery has become.
Could Bianca Belair Return for WrestleMania 42?
Yes — but it’s complicated.
While BodySlam reports that WWE still expects her to be at WrestleMania 42 in some capacity, it’s unclear if she’ll be cleared to wrestle. If she is, the natural storyline would involve Jade Cargill, who is currently the WWE Women’s Champion.
Cargill is set to defend her title against Jordynne Grace this Friday on SmackDown. If she retains, it could set up a WrestleMania dream match between her and Belair — two of the most powerful, athletic women in WWE history.
Can Belair Still Qualify for the Elimination Chamber?
Here’s the catch: for Belair to earn a title match at WrestleMania, she’d likely have to win the Women’s Elimination Chamber Match in just over two weeks. As of now:
- Rhea Ripley and Tiffany Stratton have qualified
- Four more spots are still up for grabs in upcoming qualifying matches
If Belair gets cleared in the next week or so, WWE could throw her into one of those qualifiers — or announce her as a surprise sixth entrant. But with time running out, it’s a long shot unless she receives medical clearance soon.
A Possible Non-Wrestling Role?
If Belair isn’t cleared to compete, WWE may still find a role for her at WrestleMania 42 — possibly in a ringside or special guest capacity to continue teasing her eventual return and ignite a future rivalry with Jade Cargill.
Bianca Belair’s delayed return has been one of the more frustrating storylines heading into WrestleMania season. While the dream matchup with Jade Cargill still feels within reach, it all depends on whether The E-S-T gets medical clearance in time.
If she does, expect WWE to make big moves — and fast. If not, fans may have to wait just a little longer for the return of the strongEST, toughEST, and bEST.
