As WWE builds anticipation for the upcoming 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble, speculation about the next 2026 Royal Rumble winner prediction is running high, with mounting signs pointing towards Sami Zayn‘s potential victory. Recent developments on WWE programming and Zayn’s unique fan connection have added to the belief that he might secure the coveted win in Riyadh.
Sami Zayn’s Recent SmackDown Segments Suggest a New Chapter
The WWE Universe witnessed Sami Zayn take center stage on SmackDown, boldly proclaiming his intentions to capture the World Championship. During this show, The Honorary Uce’s declaration was met with mockery from Trick Williams, who called attention to Zayn’s lack of a World title. The episode also featured a backstage interaction with Cody Rhodes, intensifying speculation about Zayn’s direction within WWE storylines.
These on-screen moments have fueled speculation that WWE may finally set the stage for Sami Zayn to rise as champion. Given his evident frustration over not yet claiming the top prize, it seems plausible that a heel turn—an alignment shift to a more antagonistic role—could serve as the key to not only winning the Rumble but also earning his first World Championship opportunity at WWE WrestleMania 42.
Massive Support in Saudi Arabia Offers Strategic Advantage
For the first time in history, the Royal Rumble 2026 will be hosted internationally as a live event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Sami Zayn previously received an extraordinary response from the local crowd during WWE’s last event in the region, highlighting his status as one of the roster members with the largest fan base there.
This strong connection with fans in Saudi Arabia could influence Triple H’s booking decisions, positioning Zayn as a crowd-favored winner for this year’s Rumble. A victory on such an international stage would propel Zayn to main event status for the TKO-led promotion heading into WrestleMania 42, making for an emotionally charged “Road to WrestleMania.”
An Underdog’s Journey: The Story WWE Has Yet to Tell
Although stars like Cody Rhodes have already completed their long-term quests for gold—Rhodes notably dethroned Roman Reigns at WrestleMania with his “Finish the Story” narrative—Sami Zayn’s persistent status as a WWE World Title underdog remains. The chance to crown Zayn as champion through a 2026 Royal Rumble victory gives WWE an opportunity to craft a storyline centered on a fan-favorite who has never quite reached the summit.
This narrative—chronicling the journey of a determined wrestler striving to realize his dream—strikes a powerful chord with audiences, infusing the Rumble with real drama and emotional stakes. As an underdog star, Zayn’s potential win could captivate both die-hard fans and casual viewers alike, building momentum for the months leading up to WrestleMania and influencing WWE’s storytelling direction.
With fan excitement already peaking for the 2026 event, and a blend of in-ring narratives and global crowd support in his favor, Sami Zayn stands as a likely contender to win the Royal Rumble and embark on a new chapter in WWE history.
They teased Cody Rhodes vs. Sami Zayn.
There is a compelling story here for the WWE Title.
Cody finished his story, but Sami hasn't. pic.twitter.com/tG5Eln9WWD
— Finesse (@ProWFinesse) January 4, 2026
