The Elimination Chamber PLE takes over Chicago this weekend. Several high-profile matches, including two chamber bouts, have been scheduled for the show. Since it is the last significant roadblock on the Road to WrestleMania, fans can expect a few surprises.
Thus far, the buildup to Mania has been stale, and ticket sales have been disappointing. However, all hope is not lost. Last year, WWE pulled off a massive swerve with an unexpected John Cena heel turn at Elimination Chamber 2025. The turn gave Mania season the impetus it needed.
On that note, let’s take a look at 4 huge swerves WWE could pull off at Elimination Chamber 2026.
#4. Finn Balor Defeats CM Punk to Win the World Heavyweight Championship
CM Punk will defend his World Heavyweight Championship against Finn Balor in his hometown of Chicago this weekend. A handful of outcomes are possible, including a major upset that would see Balor win the World Title.
The Second City Saint successfully defended his belt against Balor in the latter’s hometown. To return the favor, the Prince could dethrone Punk in front of the Chicago native’s friends and family. If Balor does win the World Heavyweight Championship, it would put a major dent in the current main event of WrestleMania 42.
#3. Charlotte Flair Betrays Alexa Bliss at Elimination Chamber
Six women will step inside the Elimination Chamber to secure a World Championship shot at WrestleMania. The field comprises Tiffany Stratton, Asuka, Raquel Rodriguez, Rhea Ripley, Kiana James, and Alexa Bliss. Although Bliss qualified for the Women’s Chamber, her friend and partner, Charlotte Flair, couldn’t do the same.
The Queen claims to be “fine” with the loss and remains cordial towards Bliss. However, Flair is a proud woman who has been out of the World Title scene for far too long. It must irritate the 14-time World Champion that her friend is competing in the Elimination Chamber, while she sits on the sidelines.
Flair already eliminated Bliss from the Royal Rumble match, suggesting that she isn’t afraid to step over her friend for individual success. Therefore, a jealous Flair could invade the Women’s Chamber match and lay waste to Little Miss Bliss, betraying her tag team partner.
#2. Brock Lesnar Attacks LA Knight to Take His Place in the Men’s Elimination Chamber
Brock Lesnar returned to WWE TV on RAW this past week. The Beast Incarnate put out an open challenge to any Superstar in the locker room. Simultaneously, Paul Heyman revealed Lesnar’s Mania schedule. According to his schedule, Lesnar is not scheduled to appear at Elimination Chamber, but the Conqueror could take a trip to Chicago.
The rumor mill suggests that LA Knight may end up facing the Beast at the Show of Shows. The Megastar is currently scheduled to compete in the Men’s Elimination Chamber match. Reminiscent of the way Edge attacked and replaced Kofi Kingston at No Way Out 2009, Lesnar could brutalize and replace Knight this weekend in Chicago.
Knight has been a thorn in the Vision’s path, and Lesnar is Heyman’s greatest weapon. Thus, it makes sense for the Beast to target Knight. However, Lesnar is unlikely to win the chamber.
#1. Chris Jericho Returns
Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis have had to deal with a wooden crate that is to be opened on February 28 at Elimination Chamber. Both General Managers will open the crate in Chicago this weekend. Fans have some wild theories about what’s inside the box, but no one knows what to expect.
Chris Jericho has been heavily rumored to return for a final WWE run. We were expecting him in the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble, but Y2J was nowhere to be seen. Nonetheless, many reports indicate that the legend will make a grand comeback to the Stamford-based promotion.
The inaugural Undisputed Champion could be behind the mystery crate. Y2J is known for playing mind games and pranks. This could be his way of teasing everyone before making a surprise return to WWE.
