During the January 23 broadcast of SmackDown, 2K Games announced the Attitude Era edition of WWE 2K26. Information regarding 2K26 has been scarce so far despite an expected March release date, which matches up with previous years’ releases since 2022. The idea is add hype to WrestleMania season. The Attitude Era edition of WWE 2K26 will be available for pre-order starting January 30.
The era that changed everything…
No rules. No filter. No apologies. #WWE2K26 pic.twitter.com/hzMvXxQqkG
— WWE (@WWE) January 24, 2026
The iconic scratch logo was strategically placed in a Logan Paul vlog last week, which heightened fan speculation. Whilst some fans predicted a potential focus on the Ruthless Aggression era, 2k has decided to spotlight the promotion’s golden period instead.
Logan Paul’s latest vlog features a segment with the WWE 2K26 logo in the background, however rather than use the regular design, the version shown uses the old WWE scratch logo.
Could this be a teaser for an Attitude Era or Ruthless Aggression-themed game? Thoughts?#WWE2K26 pic.twitter.com/iTofL1D1Tv
— SmackTalks (@Smacktalks) January 15, 2026
The Attitude Era edition is expected to be the most expensive version of the game, similar to 2K25’s Bloodline edition. This typically includes a season pass, virtual currency, and an earlier release date, etc. A deluxe edition is expected to be announced, which is the mid-tier priced offering.
It is unclear how the Attitude Era theme will be threaded into different game modes, as Mike Straw from Insider Gaming has confirmed that CM Punk will highlight the game’s showcase mode.
This would indicate that the current world heavyweight champion will grace the base game cover, similar to Rey Mysterio, John Cena, and Roman Reigns in past years. Ironically, Punk was the cover star of WWE 13, which also heavily focused on the Attitude Era.
Which Wrestlers Not to Expect in WWE 2K26
Whilst the artwork for the Attitude Era edition looks beautiful and includes a plethora of Hall of Famers, one superstar is notably absent. In December of 2025, Mick Foley announced that he was parting ways with WWE. Foley’s announcement was sparked by President Donald Trump’s controversial comments regarding the tragic death of Hollywood filmmaker, Rob Reiner.
Foley’s personas of Mankind, Dude Love, and Cactus Jack appear in WWE 2K25; however, their involvement in 2K26 is unknown. There is a chance that the Hardcore Legend will still be included as Foley’s deal expires in June.
Names such as Edge and Christian are unlikely to be in WWE 2K26 due to their ties to All Elite Wrestling. However, their rivals, the Hardy Boyz, have a much higher chance of being included. The NXTNA partnership may allow for the current TNA Tag Team Champions to return to the WWE video game franchise. Although just speculation, the inclusion of Matt and Jeff would be ideal given the Attitude Era theme.
Chris Jericho’s status for the video game is still unclear. Despite his contract with AEW having reportedly expired, Y2J remains on the AEW.com roster page. If a WWE return does come to fruition, his inclusion in the game may be part of future DLC. Jericho last appeared in WWE 2K19.
Former chairman Vincent Kennedy McMahon has absolutely zero chance of being involved. Despite being the focal point of weekly television during the Attitude Era, McMahon has not been involved with WWE since the filing of a lawsuit by Janel Grant in January 2024. His character was locked out of WWE 2K24 as it was too late to remove him. McMahon was not in WWE 2K25.
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