At the climax of the 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble match, NXT competitor Sol Ruca attempted her signature Sol Snatcher move on Tiffany Stratton while both were positioned on the ring apron. Stratton countered by pushing Ruca off the apron, eliminating her from the match. Shortly after, Liv Morgan executed her finisher on Stratton, securing the final elimination and claiming victory in the contest.
Reports from Fightful Select reveal that Sol Ruca raised concerns about performing the Sol Snatcher on the ring apron, since it would have led to her own elimination as well. Despite her reservations, WWE Producers instructed her to proceed with the spot.
AJ Lee’s Status Changes Ahead of WrestleMania 42 Match
Originally anticipated to participate in the Women’s Royal Rumble, AJ Lee’s involvement did not materialize due to reasons that remain unclear. Inside sources indicated on WrestleVotes Live through Fightful Select that AJ Lee had been slated for the event prior to her disappearance from the scene.
Although her name circulated internally beforehand, she was ultimately absent from the Royal Rumble match. Meanwhile, AJ Lee is scheduled to face Becky Lynch in what will be Lee’s first singles match in over a decade at WrestleMania 42.
Additionally, information from the Wrestling Observer confirms this bout will be contested for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship, a title Becky Lynch recently reclaimed from Maxxine Dupri.
Big E Announces Retirement Following Career-Ending Injury
Big E, former WWE Champion, officially announced his retirement from active wrestling during an interview on Compas On The Beat. Reflecting on his career, he stated,
“I’m content. In wrestling, they always say ‘never say never’, but right now I’m retired, and that for me is it. I’m focused on other things right now.” – Big E, WWE Star
Later, Big E shared a statement on X outlining his long history of injuries and expressing gratitude for his time in professional wrestling. He recounted entering the business at 23 years old while carrying multiple significant injuries, including torn ACLs, a torn pec, and a broken patella, but emphasized how fortunate he has been to avoid chronic pain.
His final in-ring appearance was during the March 11, 2022 episode of SmackDown, where he sustained a neck injury while teaming with fellow New Day member Kofi Kingston against Sheamus and Ridge Holland of The Brawling Brutes.
Highlights of Big E’s Professional Wrestling Career
Big E compiled an impressive list of titles and achievements throughout his tenure in WWE, notably:
– One-time WWE Champion
– Two-time Intercontinental Champion
– Eight-time Tag Team Champion across RAW and SmackDown
– Winner of the 2021 Men’s Money In The Bank ladder match
– One-time NXT Champion
– Recognized as a WWE Triple Crown Champion
Implications for Women’s Wrestling and WrestleMania 42
Sol Ruca’s questioning of the Women’s Royal Rumble finish illustrates ongoing tensions around match booking choices within WWE. Her concerns highlight the complexity of crafting dramatic yet coherent match conclusions that satisfy performers and fans alike.
The confirmed AJ Lee versus Becky Lynch match at WrestleMania 42 adds significant anticipation to the event, particularly with the Women’s Intercontinental Championship on the line, marking a milestone return for Lee after an 11-year absence from singles competition.
Meanwhile, the wrestling community reflects on Big E’s retirement, acknowledging the physical toll the sport can take and honoring the resilience shown by performers like him. His legacy, marked by numerous championships and memorable moments, will continue to influence the WWE landscape.
Liv Morgan wins the Women's Royal Rumblepic.twitter.com/k71O1xAJHu
— WrestleFeed (@WrestleFeedApp) January 31, 2026
