Five potential WWE WrestleMania 42 opponents for Women's US Champion Giulia

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The Beautiful Madness is in her second title reign ahead of WrestleMania.
Women’s United States Champion Giulia regained the title in a rematch against Chelsea Green on the first SmackDown of 2026. However, much like her initial reign, her second run with the championship has once again left fans disappointed, largely due to underwhelming booking.
Giulia’s title reign has surpassed 50 days; however, she has only defended the title once against Alexa Bliss. The title defense against such a big name was likely booked to legitimize the title, but felt flat as nothing followed it, and instead, Giulia, along with her manager Kiana James, was competing in tag teams.
The worrying trend of the Women’s US title not being defended at any WWE PLE has continued, and, except for Chelsea Green’s inaugural run, the title has been an afterthought for WWE.
This could soon change, as WWE may kick off an intriguing storyline on the Road to WrestleMania 42 by giving Giulia a more compelling opponent. Here are the top five opponents she could face on the ‘Grandest Stage of Them All.’
5. Candie LeRae

Despite an amazing resume, Candice LeRae’s booking on the main roster in recent times has been disappointing to say the least. LeRae, since last year, has either been a side character or completely absent from programming.
While she is currently involved in a storyline with her husband, Johnny Gargano, mostly in backstage segments or ring-side appearances, WWE should instead book her against Giulia. LeRae, together with Giulia, will definitely elevate the title and give fans an incredible showdown.
Also Read: All matches announced for WWE WrestleMania 42 so far
4. Alexa Bliss

As mentioned, Giulia’s first and only title defense until now is against multi-time World Champion Alexa Bliss, who is currently set to compete in the women’s Elimination Chamber match in Chicago on February 28.
If Bliss comes up short in the match, she can challenge Giulia to a rematch and add the Women’s US title to her resume that already features World titles and Tag Team titles. A star of Bliss’ caliber will also help elevate the title.
3. Jordynne Grace

‘The Juggernaut’ Jordynne Grace came up short in her attempt to capture the WWE Women’s title against Jade Cargill recently on SmackDown. Despite multiple attempts, Grace has been unable to capture any title in the WWE since her TNA departure.
However, Grace should course-correct and focus on capturing a mid-card championship, with the Women’s United States Title serving as the perfect first step to establish herself and build momentum on the main roster.
2. Chelsea Green

Chelsea Green is currently sidelined due to an injury she sustained during the women’s Elimination Chamber Qualifying match. However, despite the injury, Green has continued to work and contribute in segments, and remains one of the fan-favorites.
Green’s title reign arguably represents the most compelling period in recent history for the Women’s United States Title, which has otherwise struggled to stay relevant.
WWE’s decision at the end of 2025 to briefly put the title on Green before having Giulia reclaim it fell flat and did little for either competitor or the championship. A well-crafted feud culminating in a rematch at WrestleMania could reignite fan interest and give both stars the spotlight they deserve.
1. Kiana James
Another intriguing idea that is surely going to be a hit among fans is Kiana James turning on her client, Giulia, setting up the title match for WrestleMania. The betrayal would turn Giulia’s face, hence turning the match into a babyface vs heel match.
Reports suggest that the promotion appears to be leaning toward the view that Kiana James has emerged as a bigger star. This has been evident in recent weeks, as James secured a spot in the Women’s Chamber match by pinning Charlotte Flair. The victory was celebrated by fans, who cheered loudly for James as further evidence of her rising stardom.
Furthermore, a clash between Giulia and James would inject fresh energy into the SmackDown brand, putting the Women’s United States Title front and center and marking the first time it features on a PLE, and that too on the ‘Grandest Stage of Them All.’
When and where will WrestleMania 42 take place?
The 42nd edition of WrestleMania will take place as a two-night event on Saturday, April 18 and 19, at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada.
What matches have been announced for WWE WrestleMania 42?
• CM Punk (c) vs Roman Reigns – World Heavyweight Championship
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Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.