With the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble less than 24 hours away, anticipation is building around Drew McIntyre’s upcoming defense of the Undisputed WWE Championship against Sami Zayn. As excitement peaks, several superstars are poised to potentially interfere, creating unpredictable drama during this critical title match.
Trick Williams’ Rising Influence on SmackDown
Trick Williams, who recently joined the SmackDown roster, has impressed with a series of strong performances. Although he qualified for a Fatal Four-Way Match to become the No. 1 contender for McIntyre’s title, he ultimately fell short. Still, Williams remains a viable threat and could attempt to disrupt the championship bout to solidify his status as a major heel on the main roster.
Randy Orton’s Possible Heel Turn and Interference
Randy Orton, chasing the milestone of becoming a 15-time world champion, failed to secure a spot in the title picture after losing in the Fatal Four-Way Match that determined McIntyre’s challenger. With his babyface run stagnating, there is speculation that Orton may revert to his heel persona. Such a shift could see him interrupt the McIntyre vs. Zayn match, adding a new layer of conflict.
Cody Rhodes’ Quest for Revenge Against McIntyre
Following Drew McIntyre’s recent victory over Cody Rhodes, which included an attack on Rhodes and Jacob Fatu before their match at Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII, tensions have escalated. Rhodes might seek retribution by targeting McIntyre during the Royal Rumble title contest, aiming to derail the defending champion’s momentum.
Jacob Fatu’s Momentum and Potential Impact
Jacob Fatu has generated significant momentum on SmackDown since his return from injury earlier this year. After recently confronting McIntyre on the brand’s latest episode, Fatu remains a possible disruptor in the impending championship match, potentially intervening to change the course of events during the Royal Rumble.
Each of these four stars—Trick Williams, Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, and Jacob Fatu—brings compelling reasons to be considered wildcards in Drew McIntyre’s title defense. Their interference could dramatically alter the outcome of the match and provide WWE fans with memorable moments. The imminent Royal Rumble event promises to deliver unexpected twists, keeping the WWE universe on the edge of their seats.
