With Royal Rumble 2026 returns generating major excitement, WWE is setting the stage for one of its most anticipated premium live events, happening for the first time in Saudi Arabia next month. This year’s event is already attracting attention, especially after Randy Orton made a stunning comeback on SmackDown, raising speculation about which other big names might be next.
Royal Rumble is renowned for its jaw-dropping surprises and high-profile comebacks, making it a must-watch for fans worldwide. As WWE fills out its roster for the historic show, several absent superstars are rumored to be on the verge of returning. Here are five of the most unexpected WWE names who could appear before Royal Rumble 2026, adding energy and drama to the buildup.
Jacob Fatu’s Potential Impactful Comeback
Jacob Fatu, known as The Samoan Werewolf, has not been seen on WWE programming since a mysterious backstage incident on SmackDown back in October. Discussions behind the scenes suggest WWE is making plans for Fatu’s imminent reappearance, most likely on SmackDown, just ahead of Royal Rumble 2026.
Fatu previously held the United States Championship and played a crucial role in SmackDown’s mid-card division, a tier that currently lacks star power. His anticipated return is poised to spark new rivalries and energize the lead-up to the event, potentially restoring balance and enthusiasm within that part of the roster. Fans can expect Fatu to reclaim his spot and become instrumental in the evolving storylines on the blue brand, with Royal Rumble 2026 returns at the center of this renewed interest.
Roman Reigns Poised for a High-Profile Reappearance
Roman Reigns, last seen at Survivor Series in San Diego, has made it known that the Undisputed WWE Championship is in his sights upon his return. With Reigns among the favorites to win this year’s Men’s Royal Rumble, speculation swirls about his next move and WWE’s strategy for his comeback.
Rather than saving the surprise for Royal Rumble night, WWE may showcase Reigns ahead of time, possibly having him declare his participation on Monday Night RAW. Such an approach would amplify excitement and marketability, while also laying the groundwork for another superstar’s surprise Royal Rumble moment. Reigns making his intentions known might create a domino effect of expected and unexpected Royal Rumble 2026 returns, deepening anticipation for the event.
LA Knight’s Storyline Revenge and Potential Entry
LA Knight has been absent from the ring since being blindsided by The Vision during a recent episode of RAW. With no official announcement regarding his recovery or return, it’s plausible that WWE is intentionally holding back Knight’s reemergence for maximum effect right before Royal Rumble.
If Knight returns in the weeks leading up to the event, he could immediately reignite his feud with The Vision and position himself as a contender in the Men’s Royal Rumble 2026, a move fans have been rallying behind. His comeback would raise the stakes for the show, setting up new rivalries and heightening viewer investment in the outcome of the Rumble match.
Tiffany Stratton’s Expected Return to SmackDown
Since losing the WWE Women’s Championship, Tiffany Stratton has been noticeably absent from SmackDown, though she is reportedly injury-free. This suggests that WWE may be reserving her comeback for an opportune moment, potentially to shake up the Women’s Royal Rumble 2026.
Stratton has maintained her status as a leading female athlete in WWE for more than a year, making her a credible and compelling favorite to win the upcoming Rumble. Initiating her return before the event could invigorate fan interest, with Stratton taking center stage through interviews and matches as part of the event’s high-profile build.
Chris Jericho’s Homecoming Could Be a Game-Changer
Chris Jericho, one of the wrestling world’s most iconic veterans, is reportedly on the verge of making a sensational return to WWE following the expiration of his AEW contract. Sources indicate that Jericho and WWE have been engaged in discussions for some time, heightening the buzz around his expected comeback.
With WWE promoting next week’s Monday Night RAW in Brooklyn, New York as a special Netflix anniversary episode, the timing appears ideal for Jericho’s return. His reappearance could serve as a headline attraction, igniting excitement and positioning him at the heart of Royal Rumble 2026 returns talk. Jericho’s involvement in the lead-up to the Rumble would provide WWE with a major storyline, add star power, and capture the attention of both long-time fans and new viewers.
These possible returns—featuring seasoned champions, rising stars, and global icons—underscore WWE’s commitment to delivering unforgettable moments as Royal Rumble 2026 approaches. As anticipation grows, the unfolding weeks promise intense storylines, potential rivalries, and monumental comebacks that could reshape the road to WrestleMania and beyond.
Tiffany Stratton shares new gym photo 💪 pic.twitter.com/4MvFbCVXX4
— WrestlingWorldCC (@WrestlingWCC) January 2, 2026
