With WrestleMania 41 just a month away, WWE fans are eagerly awaiting the biggest event of the year. Several high-stakes matches have already been confirmed, including John Cena vs. Cody Rhodes, IYO SKY vs. Bianca Belair, and Jey Uso vs. Gunther. However, one major WWE superstar currently finds himself without a clear road to WrestleMania—Sami Zayn.
Following his brutal unsanctioned match against Kevin Owens at Elimination Chamber Toronto, many are questioning whether Zayn will even make it to The Show of Shows. If he does return, who could he feud with leading up to WrestleMania 41?
Here are four potential rivals for Sami Zayn if he returns before WWE’s biggest event of the year.
#4. Sami Zayn vs. Karrion Kross – A Mind Game-Fueled Rivalry
Karrion Kross, a former NXT Champion, has made a name for himself on Monday Night RAW alongside Scarlett. Despite his intimidating presence, he has yet to capture gold on the main roster, but he remains a dangerous threat.
In the past, Kross has targeted Zayn, both in WWE storylines and on social media. He has attempted to manipulate and corrupt the former Intercontinental Champion, but Sami has resisted his mind games.
A returning Zayn could renew his rivalry with Kross, leading to a heated WrestleMania match. While this bout may not be the most high-profile on the card, the storytelling and intensity of the feud could make it a standout undercard match.
#3. A Triple Threat Feud with Kevin Owens and Randy Orton
Sami Zayn’s last WWE appearance saw him battered and bruised after his match with Kevin Owens at Elimination Chamber Toronto. Owens delivered a devastating Powerbomb onto the ring apron, but that wasn’t even the most brutal moment of the match.
Immediately after Owens’ victory, Randy Orton made his shocking return and attacked Owens. While some may see Orton’s arrival as preventing further harm to Zayn, Sami might feel that The Viper stole his spotlight.
Zayn could return and insert himself into the Owens-Orton feud, leading to a highly anticipated Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania 41. Given the intensity and in-ring skill of all three competitors, this match could be an instant classic.
#2. Sheamus vs. Sami Zayn – A Battle of Resilience
Sheamus is one of the most decorated superstars in WWE history. A former WWE Champion, World Heavyweight Champion, United States Champion, and tag team champion, he has also won the Royal Rumble and King of the Ring.
However, despite his accolades, The Celtic Warrior has been absent from WWE television since the 2025 Royal Rumble. Fans expected Sheamus to compete for the Intercontinental Championship, but with Gunther facing Jey Uso, it seems that plan is off the table.
A match between Sami Zayn and Sheamus at WrestleMania 41 could be a fantastic way to bring both men back into the spotlight. Their hard-hitting styles and underdog mentalities would create an electric bout for the WWE Universe.
#1. Sami Zayn vs. Ilja Dragunov – A Match for the Ages
Few WWE superstars bring the intensity and passion of Ilja Dragunov. The Mad Dragon has proven himself in both NXT UK and NXT, winning top championships before being drafted to Monday Night RAW.
Unfortunately, Dragunov has been sidelined due to an injury sustained in a live event match against Gunther. If Ilja is ready to return, a feud with Sami Zayn could be the best possible way to reintroduce him to WWE television.
Dragunov’s ferocious, no-quit attitude combined with Sami’s underdog spirit would make for an epic WrestleMania showdown. This match has the potential to steal the show if given the right amount of time and build.
Will Sami Zayn Make it to WrestleMania 41?
As WrestleMania 41 approaches, the question remains—will Sami Zayn be part of the event? His injuries from Elimination Chamber Toronto have kept him off television, but if he returns, any of these four feuds could lead to an unforgettable match at The Show of Shows.
Regardless of who he faces, WWE must ensure that one of its most beloved stars has a meaningful role at WrestleMania 41.
FAQs
Will Sami Zayn compete at WrestleMania 41?
Sami Zayn’s WrestleMania 41 status is uncertain due to injuries sustained at Elimination Chamber Toronto, but a return before the event is possible.
Who could Sami Zayn feud with before WrestleMania?
Possible opponents include Karrion Kross, Randy Orton, Kevin Owens, Sheamus, and Ilja Dragunov.
Why has Sami Zayn been absent from WWE TV?
Sami Zayn suffered serious injuries during his Unsanctioned Match against Kevin Owens at Elimination Chamber Toronto and has been recovering since.
Could Sami Zayn face Ilja Dragunov at WrestleMania?
If Ilja Dragunov is medically cleared to return, a match between him and Sami Zayn could be an exciting WrestleMania 41 showdown.
Will WWE book a Triple Threat Match involving Sami Zayn?
A possible Triple Threat Match between Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, and Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41 could be a major addition to the card.
