The highly anticipated reunion for The Challenge: Battle of the Eras Season 40 aired on January 15, 2025, delivering an in-depth look at the season’s most defining moments and unresolved drama. This season, which pitted legends from past eras against rising stars, concluded with Jordan Wiseley, Rachel Robinson, and Jenny West crowned as champions.
However, as Part 1 of the reunion revealed, the competition may have ended, but the rivalries, relationships, and personal dynamics continue to evolve. The reunion, hosted in front of a live audience, brought together contestants to discuss the highs and lows of the game. From rekindled friendships to bitter conflicts, the cast left no stone unturned in revisiting the season’s pivotal events.
Key moments from The Challenge: Battle of the Eras Season 40 reunion part 1
1) Cara Maria and Laurel share glam time
One notable moment occurred backstage when long-time rivals Cara Maria and Laurel ended up in the same room for hair and makeup. Fellow competitor Jodi immediately sensed the palpable tension between them. This scheduling choice by production set the tone for their later discussions onstage.
2) Nehemiah’s sudden exit
Tina began the reunion by sharing her candid thoughts on the show’s evolution, describing it as having "gone to s**t." Her comments were interrupted when Nehemiah left the stage abruptly, reportedly feeling unwell due to a hangover. Olivia confirmed he became sick offstage, and his microphone accidentally amplified the sounds for everyone present.
3) Tina calls out Jordan
Jordan Wiseley addressed his dominant performance in the final, stating he was surprised not to face any eliminations. Tina took the opportunity to accuse Jordan of manipulation, calling him an "a**hole," and questioning his worthiness as a champion. However, Tina admitted her remarks were rooted in frustration over her own elimination, partially orchestrated by Jordan.
4. Amanda makes a surprise appearance
At The Challenge reunion, Devin revisited comments he made about Amanda in previous seasons, explaining that her actions had crossed boundaries with people he cares about, including Tori and Michele. Amanda then made a surprise entrance dressed in a bold red outfit and accused Devin and Michele of lacking authenticity in their relationship.
Despite her dramatic appearance, Amanda offered little additional input, perhaps reflecting her early elimination from the competition.
5) Cory and Josh’s ongoing rivalry
Cory joined the reunion virtually and revealed he had made a deal with Nia, before Amanda attempted to strike an alliance with him. This prompted a heated exchange between Cory and Josh, as the latter was criticized for maintaining alliances with nearly everyone in the house. Their rivalry reignited debates about gameplay decisions made during The Challenge: USA.
6) Olivia and Theo’s relationship update
During The Challenge reunion, Olivia and Theo revealed they are still together, with Theo sharing plans to move to the US after securing his visa. Olivia disclosed she has a tattoo of Theo’s name behind her ear but noted she could remove it if necessary, as she owns a tattoo shop. Josh mentioned seeing Theo cry when he left Olivia in the game, further confirming their strong connection.
7.) Devin and Michele’s pre-season romance
Devin and Michele also confirmed they are still in a relationship. Michele revealed she developed feelings before Devin, who described their dynamic as beginning with "preseason activity." While Devin expressed doubts about being the "marriage type," he admitted Michele would be the one exception.
8) Bananas revisits past disputes
At The Challenge reunion, Bananas addressed his previous attempt to intervene in Devin and Michele’s relationship, framing it as a move to protect his own game. Devin called his reasoning invalid, and the discussion revisited moments from the season and earlier podcasts. Ultimately, the three reconciled onstage, with Bananas jokingly attempting to kiss Michele.
9) Aneesa and Rachel’s conflict
Aneesa expressed feeling "disposable" during Era 1, which Rachel attributed to Aneesa’s performance during the Era Invitational. Rachel argued that their elimination vote was based on fairness, while Aneesa contended it was a betrayal. Aneesa stated she would not have made a similar decision and criticized Rachel for prioritizing her own game.
10) The Laurel and Cara Maria disagreement
During The Challenge reunion, Laurel and Cara Maria addressed their ongoing tension, with Laurel stating she didn’t deserve the animosity directed at her by Cara. In response, Cara accused Laurel of making deeply personal comments that crossed boundaries. Laurel expressed hope for Cara’s healing and peace, while Cara indicated she wanted to move past the conflict.
Despite their differences, Cara confirmed she would continue participating in seasons together if necessary, though their dynamic remains strained.
Don't miss out on The Challenge: Battle of the Eras Reunion Part 2 on Wednesday, January 22, at 8 pm ET on MTV.