With the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble approaching this weekend in Saudi Arabia, Seth Rollins has shared his picks for the five greatest Royal Rumble winners of all time. His selections highlight memorable victories that shaped WWE history, as anticipation builds for this year’s event featuring favorites like Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Bron Breakker.
As WWE prepares to return to Saudi Arabia, excitement surrounds the Royal Rumble match, where Roman Reigns is favored to claim his second victory. Other notable contenders include Gunther, Cody Rhodes, and Bron Breakker, each poised to make an impact. On the women’s side, Liv Morgan, Bianca Belair, Tiffany Stratton, and past champions such as Charlotte Flair, Bayley, and Rhea Ripley are expected to be major players. Amidst this buildup, former Rumble winner Seth Rollins spoke on ESPN’s First Take about his top five Royal Rumble champions, sharing insights into moments he deems most historic and influential.
Seth Rollins, who secured the Royal Rumble title himself in 2019, is sidelined this year due to a rotator cuff surgery performed in October. The former Shield member has faced numerous injuries throughout his career, including serious knee ligament tears sustained during a 2015 house show. Although he initially aimed to return for the early premium live events of 2026, his comeback now appears uncertain. Still, Rollins remains a prominent voice in WWE discussions.
Rey Mysterio’s Breakthrough and Record-Setting 2006 Victory
Ranking fifth on Rollins’ list is Rey Mysterio, whose triumph in the 2006 Royal Rumble stands out for multiple reasons. Mysterio spent an astonishing 62 minutes in the ring, setting the record for the longest time spent by a winner in the Rumble’s history. His final moments against a formidable final four — Triple H, Randy Orton, and Rob Van Dam — were especially dramatic, as he personally eliminated all the other remaining competitors.
This win was made even more poignant by its timing, coming shortly after the passing of WWE legend and close friend Eddie Guerrero, who died just two months prior. Mysterio’s championship not only demonstrated his resilience but also paid tribute to Guerrero’s legacy.
John Cena’s Remarkable 2008 Surprise Win
At number four, Rollins honors John Cena and his memorable 2008 Royal Rumble victory. The then-17-time WWE Champion entered the match at number 30, defying expectations after battling a severe pectoral injury that delayed his return. Cena’s late entrance triggered one of the loudest crowd reactions ever, as he went on to eliminate Triple H for the win.
Though some fans debate whether Cena officially crossed the top rope last because of Hornswoggle’s role in the finale, his 2008 victory remains iconic for its drama and unexpectedness, marking his first of two career Rumble wins.
Ric Flair’s Enduring Legacy from the 1992 Royal Rumble
Taking third place in Rollins’ lineup is WWE legend Ric Flair, whose 1992 Royal Rumble performance is heralded as one of the greatest in the event’s history. Flair lasted over an hour in a star-studded match including Hulk Hogan, Sgt. Slaughter, Randy Savage, Roddy Piper, Shawn Michaels, and others. The final four — Flair, Hogan, Savage, and Sid Justice — is often celebrated as one of the best conclusions to a Rumble ever.
The match also featured memorable commentary from Bobby Heenan and Gorilla Monsoon, enhancing its legendary status. Flair’s win from the number three entry and his endurance set new benchmarks for future competitors.
Shawn Michaels’ Historic Comeback at the 1995 Rumble
Shawn Michaels ranks second for his 1995 Royal Rumble victory, notable as the first time the number one entry won the match. The 1995 Rumble featured less star power than some other years but was marked by fast-paced action and a thrilling finish. Alongside Michaels, The British Bulldog, Lex Luger, and Crush were key figures who endured to the closing moments.
The event, lasting less than 39 minutes, ended dramatically when Michaels clung to the top rope before eliminating Davey Boy Smith, known as Davey Smith, to claim victory — a pioneering moment in Rumble history.
Becky Lynch’s Trailblazing 2019 Win Stands Out for Rollins
Rollins’ top honor goes to Becky Lynch for her landmark 2019 Royal Rumble victory. The 2019 event marked only the second women’s Royal Rumble, and Lynch emerged triumphant after facing off against Charlotte Flair, Nia Jax, and Bayley in the final four.
That night, Lynch lost her SmackDown Women’s Championship to Asuka but quickly redeemed herself by winning the Rumble, reestablishing her status at the top of the women’s division. Her elimination of Flair was seen as a defining moment that propelled Lynch’s career forward.
While the choice is understandable given Lynch’s historic victory and her relationship to Rollins—they are married—the selection reflects a deeply personal perspective. Her achievement remains a significant milestone in WWE history, even as it invites discussion comparing it to earlier classic wins by icons like Ric Flair and Shawn Michaels.
