Episode 17 of The Challenge: Battle of the Eras season 40, aired on December 18, 2024, was the last elimination before the final leg. In this episode, the participants moved to the Philippines, signaling the beginning of the final stretch. Before the ultimate showdown could commence, the women faced off in a high-stakes elimination round to determine who would advance.
At the end of the episode, Cara Maria Sorbello was voted off the island and thus did not reach the last stage of the season. The elimination challenge was a tense, dramatic battle of willpower, showcasing the mental and physical endurance required to succeed in The Challenge.
Cara Maria’s elimination marked the end of her journey in season 40, leaving the remaining contestants vying for a chance at the ultimate prize.
The Challenge season 40 episode 17 elimination: Who was sent home, and who's still competing?
Who was sent home
The main event of episode 17 was the "Final Elimination," in which Tori and Cara Maria faced off in a brutal endurance challenge. Both competitors were required to tread water for as long as possible, and sea creatures added an extra layer of difficulty. Despite Cara Maria's known aversion to swimming challenges, she fought hard against Tori, refusing to give up.
However, after more than two-and-a-half hours, Cara Maria was the first to dip below the surface, thus ending her participation in the game. Tori’s victory allowed her to move forward to the final.
Who is Cara Maria?
Cara Maria Sorbello is a reality television personality known for her appearances on The Challenge. She made her reality TV career debut on the show's 12th season, Fresh Meat II, in 2010.
Throughout her Challenge career, she participated in many seasons, including Battle of the Exes, Rivals, and Bloodlines. She won Battle of the Bloodlines and Vendettas and reached the final in several others.
Since then, she has competed in multiple seasons, with 44 daily wins and 21 eliminations (14 wins and seven losses). Her time on The Challenge has contributed to her significant social media following, which now includes over 550,000 followers on Instagram.
Born on May 12, 1986, in Methuen, Massachusetts, Cara Maria has earned over $600,000 from her time on The Challenge. She has also participated in Champs vs. Pros (which she won) and All Stars 4, where she reached the final.
The remaining contestants
With Cara Maria Sorbello eliminated, the eight remaining contestants went into the final challenge, and some of the best players will be ready for the season's final stretch. Having successfully navigated many challenges and several eliminations, all of these contestants can be considered familiar faces and competitive players who will fight to take the last prize.
The remaining players in the game are:
- Johnny "Bananas" Devenanzio
- Derek Chavez
- Jenny West
- Jordan Wiseley
- Kyland Young
- Michele Fitzgerald
- Rachel Robinson
- Tori Deal
As the final approaches, fans will see more intense challenges and emotional moments as the remaining contestants fight for the coveted prize. The dynamics of the remaining players will surely shift as alliances are tested and the pressure of the final builds.
Stay tuned to see who will come out on top and claim victory in The Challenge Season 40. Don’t miss the next episode on MTV, and keep following The Challenge for more updates on the intense journey toward the final!