The WWE Royal Rumble 2026 took place on January 31 in Saudi Arabia, featuring several surprise entrants and culminations, with Liv Morgan and Roman Reigns winning their respective matches. However, notable WWE talents Karrion Kross and Saraya, also known as Paige, were absent from the event. Despite Saraya’s recent desire to return to WWE and Kross’s departure the previous year, neither was invited to participate in the Royal Rumble, according to sources.
Confirmed Reports on Wrestlers Not Approached for Royal Rumble
Fightful Select revealed that neither Karrion Kross nor Saraya received any communication from WWE regarding an invitation to the Royal Rumble. This information was shared on social media by Fightful Wrestling on February 2, 2026. Their exclusion has raised questions among fans, especially considering Saraya’s public intent to come back and Kross’s previous WWE experience.
“Saraya & Karrion Kross were not approached for the WWE Royal Rumble, sources told @FightfulSelect.” ?Fightful Wrestling
Context on Karrion Kross’s and Saraya’s Current Wrestling Status
Karrion Kross parted ways with WWE last year, while Saraya exited All Elite Wrestling and has expressed interest in rejoining WWE in the near future. Their absence at a major event like the Royal Rumble highlights ongoing uncertainty about their roles in the current wrestling landscape. Other matches on the card included those featuring popular wrestlers such as Roman Reigns and Liv Morgan, maintaining their star status in WWE.
Additional Wrestling Updates and Related News
Fans also noted other storylines, such as the loss of Kazuchika Okada’s AEW International Title bag and discussions around potential Royal Rumble appearances from wrestlers like Kit Wilson. Meanwhile, Drew McIntyre commented on Cody Rhodes’ resilience within wrestling management. Live coverage of the Royal Rumble and additional wrestling events continues to engage audiences, with fight results available for related shows like WWE NXT, ALW, GCW Crushed Up, CMLL Sábado De Coliseo, and AAA.
Potential Impact and Future Prospects for Kross and Saraya
The exclusion of Karrion Kross and Saraya from the 2026 Royal Rumble signals potential challenges for their immediate futures in WWE. While fans anticipate Saraya’s hoped-for return and Kross’s wrestling comeback, their current absence emphasizes the competitive and selective nature of booking decisions in major WWE events. Observers will closely watch upcoming developments to see if either star is reintegrated into the WWE roster or pursues alternative wrestling opportunities.
Saraya & Karrion Kross were not approached for the WWE Royal Rumble, sources told @FightfulSelect.
More news now available for Select subscribers. pic.twitter.com/IC56X13MU2
— Fightful Wrestling (@Fightful) February 2, 2026
