The New Day Captures WWE Tag Team Championship at WrestleMania 41

ARLINGTON, Texas — The New Day has claimed the WWE World Tag Team Championship for the twelfth time after a thrilling victory over The War Raiders on the first night of WrestleMania 41, held April 19, 2025. Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods executed a strategic game plan, targeting the previously injured necks of their opponents.

The match saw a back-and-forth exchange, with Erik initially dominating after tagging in Ivar. Weighing over 300 pounds, Ivar delivered a breathtaking Doom-Sault from the top rope, igniting the crowd’s excitement. However, despite their best efforts, The War Raiders could not secure a pinfall when Woods countered with his Limitbreaker elbow drop.

After cutting off a War Machine double team on Woods, Kingston and Woods eliminated Erik from contention before delivering their signature finisher, Daylight, on Ivar. Kingston held down Ivar’s foot as Woods made the pivotal pin, culminating in a title win that marks the New Day’s first championship in over two years.

Post-match, Kingston expressed elation in their victory, stating, “This win means so much to us after everything we’ve been through. We’ve fought hard to get here, and it’s amazing to be crowned champions once again.”

The New Day, known for their fun-loving persona, has taken on a darker attitude recently, officially turning heel for the first time since 2016. Their strategic changes in character were evident during their relentless assault against The War Raiders.

The War Raiders, comprising Erik and Ivar, previously competed in Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling before joining WWE. Known as War Machine in their earlier days, the team has solidified its position in the tag team division, with a record of 1-1 at WrestleMania events. Their previous history saw them victorious at WrestleMania 34 but fall short at WrestleMania 37.

Analysts predict that the New Day’s latest title run could lead to two possible outcomes following WrestleMania 41. The duo could continue their heel trajectory, growing more aggressive in future rivalries, or face internal strife, potentially marking the end of their partnership.

The WrestleMania 41 victory poses both challenges and prospects for Kingston and Woods, as they attempt to navigate this new chapter, combined with tensions exacerbated by their recent heel turn. Future storylines will be intriguing as the New Day adjusts to their evolving role in the WWE landscape.