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The release of WWE 2K26 is quickly approaching. So far, we’ve seen gameplay improvements, a few entrances, and confirmed Showcase Mode matches. The Showcase Mode trailer sparked some backlash online, with fans complaining that Maryse has had the same character model since WWE 2K19, released seven years ago. An updated model for Maryse has now been confirmed, but that confirmation came after developers received online “death threats.”
Responding to community creations creator WhatsTheStatus on X, WWE 2K developer Bryan Williams posted, “Maryse has been updated,” explaining, “She has a look for Showcase and a brand new alt attire that you’ll be able to unlock from playing Showcase.”
Williams elaborated, “I wasn’t going to mention it, as I thought it’d be a nice surprise to discover, but I’ve read a few angry posts about her, so I figured I’d set the record straight.”
Gameplay and Ringside Pass designer Cornell Gunter also confirmed updates for Maryse in response to accusations that 2K “hates her.” Gunter additionally noted, “I definitely bookmarked all those tweets,” referring to the online backlash, before telling a user, “What you tweeted yesterday wasn’t cool. Death threats aren’t funny.”
Although confirmation of the updated model and new attire is good news for fans, it’s unfortunate that 2K felt compelled to reveal the surprise because of aggressive online backlash. While criticism can be warranted, it’s never acceptable to harass developers or make extreme posts.
We only have to wait a few weeks for WWE 2K26 to launch on March 13, unless you opt for early access starting March 6. There are plenty of exciting additions this year, including four new match types and new roster additions such as Blake Monroe and AJ Lee.
Although currently unconfirmed, there will also likely be talent from the Lucha Libre promotion AAA, including El Hijo del Vikingo.
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