Pat McAfee's Controversial Exit from WWE Following WrestleMania 42

WrestleMania 42, held on April 18, 2026, at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, featured a high-stakes main event where Cody Rhodes defended the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton. Pat McAfee, a sports analyst and occasional wrestler, was involved in the match, supporting Orton. However, his participation ended dramatically when he was put through an announcer's table by musician Jelly Roll, leading to his stretcher exit from the event.

Pat McAfee sides with Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, splitting WWE fansWWE WrestleMania 42 Night 1: Pat McAfee makes heated entrance, flips middle fingers to fansWWE: Jelly Roll Smashes Pat McAfee Through a TableNewsweekCody Rhodes Retaliates Against Pat McAfee Before WrestleMania 42Pat McAfee confirms WWE ‘departure’ after leaving WrestleMania 42 on stretcherWWE WrestleMania 42 Night 1: Pat McAfee gives thumb up, middle finger while being stretchered out

During the match, McAfee sustained significant physical attacks, including a Cross Rhodes from Rhodes and an elbow drop from Jelly Roll, which resulted in him being carted off. Despite this, he later returned to the ring wearing a neck brace and referee shirt, attempting to assist Orton. However, Orton turned on McAfee, delivering an RKO that further escalated the chaos. Ultimately, Rhodes retained his championship, defeating Orton.

NewsweekWWE WrestleMania 42 Night 1: Pat McAfee gives thumb up, middle finger while being stretchered outWWE WrestleMania 42 Night 1: Pat McAfee makes heated entrance, flips middle fingers to fansCody Rhodes Retaliates Against Pat McAfee Before WrestleMania 42WWE: Jelly Roll Smashes Pat McAfee Through a TablePat McAfee sides with Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, splitting WWE fansPat McAfee confirms WWE ‘departure’ after leaving WrestleMania 42 on stretcher

Following the match, McAfee confirmed his departure from WWE via social media, stating, “First morning since 2017 babe is completely out of the wrestling business, thanks to [Jelly Roll].” This announcement came after a stipulation he had made prior to the match, which dictated that he would leave WWE if Orton lost. His exit has sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts regarding the implications of celebrity involvement in wrestling narratives.

Pat McAfee confirms WWE ‘departure’ after leaving WrestleMania 42 on stretcher

The Las Vegas crowd exhibited mixed reactions during the event, with audible boos directed at McAfee whenever his name was mentioned. This division among fans has raised questions about the effectiveness of his role in the storyline. WWE executive Triple H defended McAfee's involvement, arguing that his polarizing presence generates conversation and engagement, although many fans expressed frustration over his overshadowing of the championship match.

Pat McAfee sides with Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, splitting WWE fans

In response to the backlash, Triple H stated, “Love him or hate him, he makes people talk.” This sentiment reflects the broader debate within the wrestling community about the balance between celebrity involvement and traditional wrestling narratives. Critics argue that McAfee's role detracted from the main event's integrity, while supporters believe it added necessary drama.

Pat McAfee sides with Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, splitting WWE fans

While McAfee is not expected to participate in the second night of WrestleMania 42, his future in wrestling remains uncertain. His recent activities, including attending a 50 Cent concert in a neck brace, suggest he may continue to engage with fans outside of the wrestling ring. The fallout from WrestleMania 42 will likely influence WWE's approach to celebrity involvement in future events, as they navigate the fine line between entertainment and wrestling authenticity.

Newsweek

• “First morning since 2017 babe is completely out of the wrestling business, thanks to [Jelly Roll],” — Pat McAfee

Pat McAfee confirms WWE ‘departure’ after leaving WrestleMania 42 on stretcher

While McAfee's departure has been confirmed, there are varying opinions on the impact of his involvement in WrestleMania 42. Some sources suggest that his presence was detrimental to the match's narrative, while others argue it successfully generated buzz. Additionally, the physical condition of Randy Orton leading up to the match has been reported differently, with some suggesting it could affect future storylines.

Pat McAfee sides with Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, splitting WWE fans