Following an injury that sidelined him from returning inside the ring, Big E has shifted his role by joining WWE panels for various events, drawing on his deep experience with the company. As the wrestling community anticipates the upcoming Royal Rumble on January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Big E has placed a major bet of confidence on Oba Femi, the former NXT Champion, to claim victory in the 2026 Royal Rumble match. This event serves as a critical milestone on the Road to WrestleMania, the grand stage where many WWE stars seek career-defining triumphs. The buildup to the Royal Rumble this weekend is charged, with numerous competitors aiming for their breakthrough moments.
Oba Femi’s Path to the Main Event Spotlight
Oba Femi emerged as a dominant figure throughout 2025 while holding the NXT Championship, showcasing both size and agility that defy expectations. Recently, he voluntarily relinquished his NXT title following a key defense, signaling a strategic move towards establishing himself on WWE’s main roster. His announcement to join the Royal Rumble match on RAW has intensified the buzz as fans and insiders speculate about his potential impact in the high-stakes contest. Big E’s remarks underline the exceptional physical capabilities that Femi possesses, making him a formidable contender.
Big E Expresses Confidence in Oba Femi’s Victory Chances
During a RAW Recap segment, Big E openly shared his strong belief in Oba Femi’s ability to win the Royal Rumble. Underscoring his confidence, Big E admitted to having refinanced his house to back Femi’s success, highlighting how sure he is about the outcome. He drew attention to Femi’s rare combination of speed, size, and dexterity, marveling at the way Femi moves with the agility of a much lighter athlete despite weighing around 300 pounds.
“Look, Sam, I’ve refinanced my house ’cause I’m betting it all on Oba Femi. What do you mean, that’s easy money. Shocks the world? Who wouldn’t be shocked? Have you seen this man? Yeah. Have you seen his size, his speed, his dexterity? Have you seen the way he moves? That’s not shocking the world; the man is 300 pounds. Did you see the way he runs towards the corner? He moves like he’s 150 pounds, at 300 pounds. Who wouldn’t be shocked? I wouldn’t be shocked. I think if you’re shocked by Oba Femi winning the Royal Rumble, you’re a fool.” – Big E, Former WWE Champion
Big E’s unwavering support for Oba Femi adds significant weight to the wrestler’s chances, suggesting Femi’s upcoming performance could redefine expectations at the event.
Predictions for the Women’s Royal Rumble Contender
Aside from spotlighting the men’s Royal Rumble prospects, Big E also named Roxanne Perez as a top candidate to win the women’s Royal Rumble match. He noted that Perez, a highly skilled competitor, has the potential to make a significant leap forward this year, making her a standout in a field crowded with talented wrestlers.
“A very, very talented woman who I think, I love when the Rumble is a lot of people who are just really talented, but you’re not expecting that this is the year, but you see them take that leap. I think this is the year that Roxanne Perez takes a big leap.” – Big E, Former WWE Champion
This endorsement highlights Perez as a wrestler to watch in the women’s division as the event sets the scene for WrestleMania.
Significance of the Royal Rumble in the Wrestling Calendar
The Royal Rumble is one of WWE’s most pivotal events, held this year in Riyadh, where every competitor aims for a win that could alter their trajectory heading into WrestleMania. Both established stars and rising talents view the event as a critical proving ground. For Oba Femi and Roxanne Perez, the Royal Rumble offers not just a victory but the chance to solidify their positions among WWE’s top-tier athletes. Big E’s passionate bets underscore the high stakes and intense anticipation surrounding these matches.
