WWE is preparing to host the Royal Rumble 2026 at a newly built venue in the King Abdullah Financial District of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking a departure from using established locations like Kingdom Arena and King Fahd Sports City Stadium. Concerns were raised earlier in the year when images showed that the new site was still under construction, leading to speculation about possible venue delays for this major wrestling event.
Assurances Provided on Venue Status
Despite apprehensions about the venue being unfinished, recent reports from PWInsider confirm that the construction is nearly complete. Dismissing previous rumors, they emphasized there is no sign of a significant postponement in the timeline for the WWE Royal Rumble 2026, ensuring fans the event will move forward as planned in Riyadh.
Historic Event Scheduled Outside North America
The 2026 Royal Rumble is set to take place on Saturday, January 31, starting at 2 pm ET/7 pm GMT. This occasion stands out as the first time since the original 1988 edition that WWE will present the pay-per-view event outside North America, signifying a milestone for both the company and international wrestling fans.
Top Contenders for the Men’s and Women’s Matches
Betting odds currently identify Roman Reigns, Sami Zayn, and Bron Breakker as the leading favorites to win the men’s Royal Rumble. In the women’s division, Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, and Rhea Ripley are viewed as the most likely to claim victory. These stars, prominent in the WWE scene, are expected to draw significant attention when the event airs from Saudi Arabia.
Significance for WWE and Global Fans
With final preparations for the new Riyadh venue nearing completion, WWE is poised to deliver a landmark show for the Royal Rumble 2026. The expansion into Saudi Arabia, facilitated by close monitoring from organizations like PWInsider and the anticipation surrounding favorites like Bianca Belair and Roman Reigns, highlights WWE’s broader effort to internationalize their events and engage fans beyond North America.
