(Image source: 20th Century Studios)
The recently released first trailer for "Predator: Badlands," the sixth installment in the "Predator" franchise, directed by Dan Trachtenberg, who also helmed "Prey," has sent shockwaves through the global fanbase. The trailer revealed that Elle Fanning's new protagonist is a synthetic human manufactured by the Weyland-Yutani Corporation from the "Alien" universe, signaling another direct connection between the "Predator" and "Alien" worldviews. This revelation has ignited anticipation among many fans for a long-awaited revival and new installment in the "Alien vs. Predator" series.
The crossover in "Badlands" appears to be just the beginning. Renowned entertainment journalist Jeff Sneider recently revealed on his podcast, "The Hot Mic," that according to his inside sources, a Predator has also been written into the script for the upcoming "Alien: Romulus" sequel. Sneider did not specify whether the Predator's role would be a cameo or a central character. 
(Image source: 20th Century Studios)
Fede Álvarez, the director of "Romulus," has previously expressed his willingness to bring the Alien and Predator together again, noting that he had discussed the idea with Trachtenberg. He even enthusiastically suggested that he and Trachtenberg could co-direct a future "Alien vs. Predator" film, perhaps in a style similar to Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez's "From Dusk Till Dawn." Just two months ago, Álvarez also shared his vision for how a "dream" "Alien vs. Predator" movie could surprise audiences, suggesting that the best "Alien vs. Predator" film would be one where the audience doesn't know it's an "Alien vs. Predator" movie until one of the creatures unexpectedly appears.
From the studio executive perspective, 20th Century Studios President Steve Asbell also expressed his interest last year in making another "Alien vs. Predator" film. However, he emphasized that he wants the reconnection of these two franchises to happen organically, rather than being forced. All current indications suggest that "Badlands" and the "Romulus" sequel are laying groundwork with individual plot points, gradually building connections until the two iconic creatures officially clash.