WWE Superstar Liv Morgan is widely expected to claim victory in the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble, marking what could be her long-awaited breakthrough after coming close several times in previous years. This event, set for January 31, positions Morgan as the top contender to win, yet the unpredictable nature of the Royal Rumble means several other competitors could still emerge victorious.
While Morgan’s win seems inevitable due to her consistent progress and rising status, WWE has a history of surprising outcomes, as shown last year when Jey Uso emerged from the men’s Royal Rumble against expectations. Morgan’s victory could come soon, but there is also a chance WWE opts to spotlight other talent instead.
Bianca Belair’s Potential Return Could Shake Up the Royal Rumble
Bianca Belair has not competed since suffering a severe finger injury at WrestleMania 41 nearly a year ago, though she made a brief return as a special guest referee at SummerSlam during the Naomi versus Jade Cargill match. Should she recover in time for the Royal Rumble, Belair would instantly become a serious contender based on her previous win and current trajectory.
Belair appears destined for a high-profile match against Jade Cargill for the Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 42. While she might secure her title shot by winning the Elimination Chamber event, a return via the Royal Rumble could dramatically accelerate her push and intensify the buildup to WrestleMania.
Chelsea Green’s Unexpected Rise into the Main Event Picture
Chelsea Green has consistently demonstrated dedication and adaptability within WWE, earning respect as a reliable performer willing to embrace any role given. Though not a typical dominant main event wrestler, Green possesses the potential to shake up the status quo if given the opportunity to win the Royal Rumble.
A victory for Green would represent a low-risk gamble for WWE, as she could be elevated to the top tier and freshen the Friday Night SmackDown main event scene. Her style is unconventional, and she might even clinch the win by quietly entering the ring while others eliminate each other. Such booking would allow WWE to test her appeal before deciding whether to maintain her main event presence or return her to the midcard.
Similar to Sami Zayn’s unexpected rise during his association with the Bloodline faction, Green’s success could come from a surprising Royal Rumble win that opens new storyline possibilities and world title opportunities.
The Possibility of Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky Ending Their Partnership
Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky currently share a strong partnership in WWE’s women’s tag team division, one of the most compelling alliances on television. However, history suggests this friendship will eventually fracture, likely setting up a heated rivalry ahead of WrestleMania 42.
Either Ripley, a former Royal Rumble winner, or Sky, who has yet to claim this particular accolade, could secure the 2026 win. Ripley’s potential to become a two-time Royal Rumble winner would place her in an elite category, while Sky’s victory could fill a notable gap in her list of achievements.
Their eventual feud might ignite if one unintentionally eliminates the other during the match, creating dramatic tension leading into a championship showdown. WWE has demonstrated its capability to weave these storylines effectively, as seen when Sky carried the Women’s World Championship heading into WrestleMania 41, defending successfully against Ripley and Belair.
Why the Outcome Matters for WWE’s Future Storylines
Liv Morgan’s prospective triumph in the Royal Rumble carries significant weight for her career and the broader women’s division. Winning this high-profile event would solidify her status as a top-tier star and likely grant her a championship opportunity at WrestleMania 42. Yet, the unpredictability of the Royal Rumble ensures other wrestlers like Bianca Belair, Chelsea Green, Rhea Ripley, or Iyo Sky remain vital contenders capable of altering WWE’s narrative direction.
The choices made at the Royal Rumble will not only determine who challenges for the Women’s Championship but also set the tone for character developments and rivalries across upcoming WWE programming. As a platform that can launch careers or reshape trajectories, the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble is pivotal, with implications extending well beyond the January event.
