The highly anticipated Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble matches will return on January 31, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant event in WWE’s calendar. Among the excitement, speculation is growing around several WWE stars who may be stepping into the ring for what could be their final WWE Royal Rumble appearances.
This article examines five wrestlers widely believed to take part in their last Royal Rumble matches, highlighting the uncertainty and tension surrounding their futures in the squared circle as the 2026 event approaches.
Chris Jericho’s Possible Last Royal Rumble Comeback
Recently, Chris Jericho has captured attention with rumors of a return to WWE after ending his association with AEW. Fans have been eager to see Jericho’s comeback within the Stamford-based company, and many expect that if he does compete in the 2026 Royal Rumble, it may mark his final entry in this iconic over-the-top-rope battle.
The veteran star’s potential return has sparked hope among the WWE Universe that Jericho’s final run will bring a memorable closing chapter to his Royal Rumble legacy.
AJ Styles Confirms Retirement Timing Matches Final Rumble Appearance
AJ Styles, known as The Phenomenal One, has officially announced plans to retire in 2026. This declaration makes it clear that the 2026 Royal Rumble will be the culminating match of his WWE career, concluding his current tenure in the promotion.
Styles’ impending retirement adds a layer of anticipation and gravity to the upcoming Royal Rumble, as fans look forward to witnessing the final moments of his in-ring performances at a major WWE event.
R-Truth’s Retirement Plans Center Around Final Royal Rumble Bout
At 53 years old, R-Truth has recently discussed plans for retirement, naming The Miz as his desired last opponent. Though speculation exists that this year’s Royal Rumble could be his last competitive match, his status as a fan favorite leaves the door open for potential comedic or cameo appearances in future Royal Rumbles, even if he steps away from active competition.
The possibility of R-Truth’s final in-ring involvement keeps fans uncertain yet hopeful regarding his WWE presence beyond 2026.
Rey Mysterio’s Retirement Still Remains Unconfirmed but Imminent
In June 2025, Rey Mysterio hinted that his WWE retirement was “really close,” though the company has not formalized any retirement plans for the Hall of Famer. Given this uncertainty, the 2026 Royal Rumble may represent Mysterio’s last over-the-top-rope challenge, making the occasion potentially historic within his celebrated WWE journey.
This ongoing uncertainty casts a tense atmosphere around Mysterio’s future appearances as fans await definitive announcements.
Brock Lesnar’s Career Could Culminate at the 2026 Royal Rumble
Brock Lesnar, known as The Beast Incarnate, is confirmed to participate in the 2026 event, fueling speculation that this might be his final year actively competing. Rumors suggest that Gunther may be positioned as the challenger who could effectively retire Lesnar in the ring, marking the end of a legendary chapter dubbed “Mayor of Suplex City.”
If true, the upcoming Royal Rumble will stand as the closing highlight of Lesnar’s WWE career, intensifying the drama surrounding the event’s main draw.
Significance of the 2026 Royal Rumble for WWE’s Veteran Stars
The 2026 Royal Rumble in Riyadh is shaping up to be a landmark event, possibly marking the final over-the-top-rope matches for several WWE veterans including Chris Jericho, AJ Styles, R-Truth, Rey Mysterio, and Brock Lesnar. Their potential exits raise the stakes amid the high-energy atmosphere expected in Saudi Arabia.
As fans anxiously await the event, these possible farewells underscore a period of transition for WWE, highlighting both the passage of time and the evolving nature of the promotion. The outcomes and retirements resulting from this event will likely influence storylines and roster dynamics moving forward.
Chris Jericho — Royal Rumble 2026 pic.twitter.com/RCikVtmoPc
— A L L D A Y 🚀 (@AllDAYZ77) August 18, 2025
