Sami Zayn is reportedly experiencing a significant creative push within WWE, positioning him for a potential first world championship match at WrestleMania 42. Recent updates from Fightful Select indicate that Zayn was a central focus during WWE’s recent European tour, suggesting that he is being lined up for a prominent title program.
Zayn solidified his momentum with a victory over Ilja Dragunov on the January 16 episode of SmackDown in London, earning himself a spot in a contenders’ match. This current direction appears to be the culmination of a long-term narrative that started back in 2025 during Zayn’s rivalry with Karrion Kross. The storyline was characterized by Kross’s relentless taunts regarding Zayn’s failure to secure “the big one,” which WWE creative aims to transform into a compelling redemption arc.
Although Kross has since left the company, support for Zayn’s rise remains strong among WWE executives, who believe he deserves to have his defining “underdog” moment on the grand stage of WrestleMania.
Zayn’s immediate challenge arrives on January 24, during Saturday Night’s Main Event in his hometown of Montreal. He is set to compete in a highly anticipated Fatal 4-Way match against Randy Orton, Damian Priest, and Trick Williams, with the winner earning the No. 1 Contender spot for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
The victor of this match will face Drew McIntyre, the current champion, at the Royal Rumble on January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Given Zayn’s strong following in both Montreal and Saudi Arabia, many fans and analysts are considering him the favorite to win and challenge McIntyre.
In addition to vying for the championship, Zayn has also declared his participation in the 30-man Royal Rumble match, thus ensuring his continued presence in the championship conversation as the Road to WrestleMania begins. Zayn’s journey reflects not only his talent and resilience but also illustrates the compelling narratives that continue to engage the WWE audience.