As the 2026 Royal Rumble draws near, excitement grows for WWE’s landmark event set to take place in Saudi Arabia for the first time ever. The spotlight shines on the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble Favorites, with contenders battling to secure a place at WrestleMania 42 and possibly change the course of their careers.
Tiffany Stratton’s Comeback Potential
Among the top favorites is Tiffany Stratton, who enjoyed a breakout year in 2025 as WWE Women’s Champion before stepping away from in-ring action. Anticipation surrounds her expected return, with fans and insiders speculating that she could be a surprise entrant and even potentially capture the Royal Rumble victory. Stratton is also poised for a highly charged rivalry with Jade Cargill on SmackDown, hinting that her next chapter may involve seeking revenge and another title run. WWE fast-tracked her to main event status when she debuted, and her rapid rise makes her a legitimate threat to win her first-ever Rumble in 2026.
Raquel Rodriguez’s Rise to Main Event Contention
Raquel Rodriguez distinguished herself as a standout performer in 2025 and nearly clinched the Women’s World Title on more than one occasion. Her intense pursuit of Stephanie Vaquer and the Women’s World Title has kept her in the spotlight, and a dominant showing in the Royal Rumble could be the stepping stone to her long-awaited breakthrough at WrestleMania. Although she may not have the same name recognition as some rivals, Rodriguez’s mix of size, drive, and recent momentum puts her firmly in contention for a surprise Rumble win.
Rhea Ripley Remains a Formidable Favorite
Rhea Ripley, the 2023 Women’s Royal Rumble winner, cannot be counted out. Her performance from the number one spot in 2023 solidified her as one of the division’s most dominant talents. While Ripley has not held the world title for nearly a year, her strength, popularity, and big-match experience ensure she remains at the forefront of every Rumble conversation. Some believe WWE may hold off before propelling Ripley back into the main event, but her chances of returning to the world title picture ahead of WrestleMania 42 remain strong.
Iyo Sky’s Ongoing Pursuit of Rumble Glory
Iyo Sky stands out as one of WWE’s most consistent and celebrated talents, yet a Royal Rumble victory has so far eluded her. Her reputation as both a crowd-favorite and a skilled competitor, along with a record as a multi-time world and tag team champion, positions Sky among the prominent 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble favorites. Each year, expectations mount for her to finally add the Rumble win to her accolades and solidify her place in WWE history.
Bianca Belair’s Anticipated Return
Bianca Belair has been absent from WWE competition since a loss at WrestleMania 41, leaving fans eagerly awaiting her return. Her past triumph in the 2021 Women’s Royal Rumble showcases her winning pedigree, and speculation is rampant that a surprise entry in 2026 could see her claim the match a second time. A major storyline possibility looms, as Belair’s former tag partner Jade Cargill now holds the WWE Women’s Championship as a heel, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown between two of the division’s top athletes at WrestleMania 42.
Liv Morgan Emerges as the Leading Contender
Liv Morgan is widely regarded as the clear favorite entering the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble, on the heels of a triumphant comeback after an injury at Survivor Series 2025. Multiple runner-up finishes in past Rumbles and her growing popularity with fans have positioned her firmly in the main event conversation. She has signaled her intent to pursue the Women’s World Title, particularly a possible clash with Stephanie Vaquer. Given that only one woman has ever won the Rumble more than once, and Morgan has yet to claim victory in this storied event, 2026 may mark the moment she finally seizes the opportunity.
The Road to WrestleMania and What Lies Ahead
With WWE’s women’s division showcasing a deep pool of talent and dynamic storylines, the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble promises unpredictability and high stakes. Each of these contenders—Tiffany Stratton, Raquel Rodriguez, Rhea Ripley, Iyo Sky, Bianca Belair, and Liv Morgan—brings unique strengths and compelling story arcs to the match. The outcome of this year’s Rumble will shape the landscape of WrestleMania 42 and set the stage for new rivalries and championship pursuits, reinforcing the event’s significance in WWE lore.
