The WWE Royal Rumble 2026 is set to air live on January 31 from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, promising a night full of surprises and high drama. This year’s event will showcase the newly crowned Undisputed WWE Champion, Drew McIntyre, along with major stars like Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar, making the competition fierce and unpredictable.
Potential First Title Defense: Drew McIntyre Against Sami Zayn
Drew McIntyre, the current Undisputed WWE Champion, is expected to make his first title defense at the Royal Rumble. Rather than a rematch with Cody Rhodes, who McIntyre dethroned, WWE may arrange for Sami Zayn to step up as the challenger. Zayn’s strong popularity in Saudi Arabia and his recent declaration to pursue the World Championship make him a viable contender for this high-stakes match.
Bron Breakker’s Possible Return and Victory in the Men’s Royal Rumble
Bron Breakker was suspended after attacking Penta and Dragon Lee on RAW and confronting the RAW General Manager, Adam Pearce. Despite this setback, there’s strong speculation that Breakker will return from suspension to compete in—and potentially win—the Men’s Royal Rumble match. His growing momentum as a singles star under the TKO leadership positions him as a favorite to emerge victorious in the traditional contest.
Charlotte Flair’s Chance to Claim the Women’s Royal Rumble Title Again
Charlotte Flair might once again capture the Women’s Royal Rumble crown, especially if Bianca Belair remains sidelined due to medical clearance issues. A win here could set Flair up for a WWE Women’s Title bout against Jade Cargill at The Showcase of the Immortals, a rivalry WWE has hinted at. Such a development could also lead to a breakup of Flair’s tag team with Alexa Bliss, shaking up the women’s division.
John Cena’s Expected Hall of Fame Induction Announcement
Following his retirement last December after a final match loss to Gunther, John Cena has yet to be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame. Many anticipate WWE will announce his induction during the Royal Rumble event, formally recognizing the Franchise Player’s decorated career and cementing his legacy in the promotion’s history.
Possible Return of Seth Rollins and WrestleMania Match Setup
Seth Rollins is currently absent from television due to an injury, but if he recovers in time, the Royal Rumble could mark his comeback. Rollins’ return in Riyadh may build towards a major WrestleMania 42 storyline involving a Triple Threat match where CM Punk defends his title against Rollins and Bron Breakker. This setup would follow Rollins’ desire for both revenge against Breakker for a recent betrayal and the pursuit of regaining his world championship.
The 2026 Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia stands as a critical juncture for WWE as it redefines championship rivalries and sets new trajectories for both established and emerging talent. The event’s outcomes could reshape upcoming WrestleMania narratives and solidify key stars’ roles in the evolving WWE landscape.
Seth Rollins raising arm above shoulder pretty easily. Royal Rumble entrance incoming #dabears pic.twitter.com/8JMOf6sQZo
— Bay Area Super fans (@Baysuperfans) January 11, 2026
