Excitement builds as Roman Reigns is set to make his WWE return at the Royal Rumble Premium Live Event in early 2026, signaling his likely participation in the signature over-the-top-rope battle in Saudi Arabia. With anticipation for Roman Reigns Royal Rumble 2026 running high, several clear indicators suggest the former Undisputed Champion may be favored to win the men’s match.
Renewed Rivalry with Drew McIntyre
The dynamic between Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre has long captured the imagination of WWE fans. Recently, Drew McIntyre captured the Undisputed WWE Championship, while Reigns boasts a history of besting “The Scottish Warrior” during his tenure atop the company. Their heated storylines have delivered intense encounters, reinforcing their rivalry as a main event attraction.
This background fuels speculation that WWE might resurrect this feud for WrestleMania 42. If Reigns secures victory at the Royal Rumble, the stage could be set for a title match against McIntyre at the year’s premier event, “The Showcase of the Immortals.” Every clash between these two stars has delivered memorable bouts, suggesting that another faceoff is highly likely to excite both the live audience and global viewers.
Hints Toward Another Championship Quest
Roman Reigns’ last televised WWE appearance carried significant hints about his intentions. After losing the Survivor Series: WarGames 2025 match, Reigns directly confronted Cody Rhodes—then holding the world title as “The American Nightmare.” While the championship changed hands thereafter, Reigns’ focus on regaining the top prize remains undeterred.
The deliberate teaser at WarGames implies Reigns is not backing down from his pursuit of championship gold. With Drew McIntyre now holding the title, many believe Reigns could channel his efforts into reclaiming the championship in 2026, making a Rumble win an essential step in his journey back to the top.
Absence of Rematch Since WrestleMania XL
Roman Reigns’ historic reign as Undisputed WWE Champion ended at the hands of Cody Rhodes on the second night of WrestleMania XL. Ever since that defeat, Reigns—known as OTC—has not received a rematch for the coveted title.
This notable absence strengthens the theory that the creative minds behind WWE, including Triple H, may be plotting a triumphant Royal Rumble win for Reigns. Such an outcome would pave the way for him to finally challenge for the championship he lost and reclaim his spot in the main event of WrestleMania. His return to the world title picture would not only satisfy longstanding rivalries but also re-establish his legacy at the top of WWE.
As the Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia approaches, all eyes are on Reigns. Whether he conquers the 2026 battle and secures history with another Rumble victory remains an open, hotly debated question among fans and insiders.
Drew’s first title feud should be against.. pic.twitter.com/ZgK4humEdQ
— Roman Reigns SZN 💥 (@reigns_era) January 10, 2026
