2026 WWE Royal Rumble matches: Card entrants, rumors, start time in Riyadh

The annual Royal Rumble event, a cornerstone of WWE’s calendar and traditionally marking the official commencement of the "Road to WrestleMania," is scheduled to take place on Saturday night in Riyadh. This year’s installment continues a tradition dating back to 1988, where 30 male and 30 female participants vie for a championship opportunity at professional wrestling’s biggest spectacle, WrestleMania. The unique over-the-top-rope elimination format ensures high drama and unpredictable outcomes, a hallmark that has solidified the event’s place in wrestling lore.

Last year’s Royal Rumble provided significant dramatic moments, particularly in the men’s contest. The climax saw Jey Uso eliminating John Cena, who was competing in what was widely understood to be his final Royal Rumble appearance as part of his retirement tour. Uso subsequently capitalized on this momentum, ultimately defeating Gunther at WrestleMania in April to capture the World Heavyweight Championship. On the women’s side, Charlotte Flair made a triumphant return from a year-long absence due to a knee injury, emerging as the last woman standing to secure her own championship match at WrestleMania. While a number of superstars have officially declared their entry into this year’s 30-person elimination matches, the Royal Rumble is renowned for its unannounced surprise entrants, a factor that consistently fuels fan anticipation and speculation.

The winners of both the men’s and women’s Royal Rumble matches this year are widely considered open contests, with both fields expected to feature a blend of established main-event talent and emerging stars. The stakes are particularly high, with the victors earning a direct path to a world championship bout at WrestleMania 42, which will be held in 2026.

Beyond the two titular Royal Rumble matches, the card for Saturday night in Riyadh also features a highly anticipated Undisputed WWE Championship defense. Reigning champion Drew McIntyre will put his title on the line for the first time against Sami Zayn. Zayn, a veteran performer who has yet to secure a singles world championship in WWE, earned his opportunity by winning a fatal four-way elimination match. This victory marked a significant milestone for Zayn, who had previously overcome qualifying matches to enter the multi-man contest. However, history presents a formidable challenge for Zayn, as his career singles record against the formidable Scottish champion stands at an unfavorable 0-12. Should Zayn emerge victorious, he would not only achieve his inaugural singles world championship but also break a long-standing personal losing streak against McIntyre, making history in the process.

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Another high-profile encounter scheduled for the event is a retirement match between Gunther and AJ Styles. Gunther, often referred to as "The Ring General," has cultivated a reputation as a "Legend Killer" within WWE, having controversially ended the in-ring careers of both Goldberg and John Cena in the preceding year. His current target is AJ Styles, who had previously announced that 2026 would mark his final year of active in-ring competition. This match carries significant implications for Styles’ career. Gunther previously secured a victory over Styles on an episode of Monday Night Raw, and subsequently agreed to a rematch only under the strict condition that Styles would retire from professional wrestling if he were to lose at the Royal Rumble. This stipulation elevates the match beyond a standard contest, transforming it into a career-defining moment for "The Phenomenal One" and a potential further affirmation of Gunther’s dominant persona.

The event will be streamed live on ESPN Unlimited, with the main card scheduled to commence at 2 p.m. Eastern Time.

Confirmed Matches and Entrants for the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble:

Men’s Royal Rumble Match (30 Entrants):
The confirmed field for the men’s Royal Rumble match already represents a formidable collection of talent, blending seasoned veterans, former world champions, and promising up-and-coming stars. Key announced entrants include:

Cody Rhodes: A perennial main event contender and a favorite among many to headline WrestleMania. His recent performances have solidified his position at the top of the roster, and a Rumble victory would be a significant step toward a world championship.
Roman Reigns: The long-reigning Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, whose infrequent appearances in Rumble matches are always noteworthy. His presence introduces a unique dynamic, given his current championship status and the implications of him winning a second Rumble.
Gunther: The dominant Intercontinental Champion, known for his relentless in-ring style and record-breaking title reign. His participation raises questions about his endurance in a multi-man match format and his potential to add a Rumble victory to his impressive resume.
Jey Uso: Last year’s runner-up and a proven main event talent, Uso seeks to repeat his strong performance and secure another championship opportunity.
Rey Mysterio: A WWE Hall of Famer and a former Royal Rumble winner (2006), Mysterio brings veteran experience and a high-flying offense.
Jacob Fatu: A recent addition to the main roster, Fatu’s raw power and connection to the Anoa’i family bloodline make him a dark horse contender.
Solo Sikoa: Another formidable member of The Bloodline, Sikoa’s presence adds a layer of unpredictable aggression to the match.
Dragon Lee: A highly athletic and acrobatic performer, Lee’s style could allow him to navigate the chaotic environment of the Rumble.
Penta: A renowned international star, Penta’s unique offense and charisma make him an intriguing entrant.
Bron Breakker: A powerful and explosive talent from NXT, Breakker is widely seen as a future main eventer.
Logan Paul: The controversial social media personality and United States Champion, Paul’s athleticism and ability to generate heat will be a factor.
Bronson Reed: A powerhouse with a significant size advantage, Reed poses a considerable threat to other competitors.
Austin Theory: A former United States Champion, Theory brings a blend of athleticism and arrogance to the match.
Je’Von Evans: An exciting new talent from NXT, Evans’ inclusion marks a significant opportunity for him to make an impact.
Oba Femi: The reigning NXT North American Champion, Femi’s dominant physique and impressive track record in NXT position him as a potential breakout star.
Randy Orton: A multi-time world champion and a two-time Royal Rumble winner (2009, 2017), Orton’s experience and cunning make him a perennial threat.
Brock Lesnar: A former world champion and Royal Rumble winner (2003), Lesnar’s sporadic appearances and unparalleled destructive force always make him a top contender.

With 17 superstars officially announced, there remain 13 undisclosed slots, which are traditionally reserved for surprise entrants, NXT call-ups, returning legends, or newly signed talent. Speculation is rife regarding these unannounced participants, with industry observers suggesting potential returns of injured stars or debuts from other promotions. The article also hints at a unified front, referencing "The Vision" and its four members, who could leverage their collective strength to significantly impact the match’s progression and eliminate multiple competitors. This factional element introduces a tactical layer to the typically every-man-for-himself contest.

Undisputed WWE Championship Match:
Drew McIntyre (c) vs. Sami Zayn

Drew McIntyre’s reign as Undisputed WWE Champion began after a hard-fought victory at a previous premium live event. Sami Zayn secured his position as the No. 1 contender for McIntyre’s title after an arduous qualification process. His journey included winning a series of individual qualifying matches before culminating in a decisive victory in a fatal four-way match at "Saturday Night’s Main Event." This contest featured other prominent contenders in Randy Orton, Trick Williams, and Damian Priest. Zayn’s triumph came when he delivered his signature Helluva Kick to Damian Priest, securing the pinfall in Montreal and punching his ticket to the Royal Rumble. As noted, Zayn has never held a singles world title in WWE, and his persistent pursuit of this elusive goal has become a central narrative of his career. His historical 0-12 record against McIntyre in singles competition further underscores the monumental challenge he faces in Riyadh, requiring him to not only defeat the champion but also overcome a significant personal hurdle.

Women’s Royal Rumble Match (30 Entrants):
The women’s Royal Rumble match is equally stacked with top-tier talent, featuring a strong contingent of current and former champions, alongside rising stars. Announced entrants include:

Iyo Sky: A former Women’s Champion known for her innovative aerial offense.
Rhea Ripley: A dominant force and former Women’s World Champion, Ripley’s power and aggression make her a formidable challenger.
Roxanne Perez: A talented NXT standout, Perez’s inclusion offers her a chance to make a statement on a global stage.
Liv Morgan: A former SmackDown Women’s Champion, Morgan’s resilience and passionate fanbase make her a compelling entrant.
Raquel Rodriguez: A powerful competitor with a significant size advantage, Rodriguez poses a considerable threat.
Bayley: A multi-time women’s champion and a veteran leader, Bayley’s strategic acumen could be crucial.
Lyra Valkyria: Another promising talent from NXT, Valkyria’s unique style could lead to surprising eliminations.
Asuka: A former Women’s Champion and Royal Rumble winner (2018), Asuka’s technical prowess and unpredictability are well-known.
Chelsea Green: A charismatic and cunning competitor, Green often finds ways to navigate chaotic situations.
Jordynne Grace: A powerhouse from TNA Wrestling, Grace’s cross-promotional appearance adds an exciting dimension.
Charlotte Flair: A record-setting multi-time women’s champion, Flair’s Royal Rumble history includes a victory in 2020. Her return from injury last year culminated in a Rumble win, making her a consistent threat.
Alexa Bliss: A former Women’s Champion, Bliss’s enigmatic persona and deceptive tactics make her a wildcard.
Nia Jax: A dominant force with unparalleled size and strength, Jax is always a difficult opponent to eliminate.
Lash Legend: A physically imposing talent from NXT, Legend’s raw power could make an impact.
Giulia: A highly anticipated international star, Giulia’s debut in WWE via the Rumble is expected to generate significant buzz.
Maxxine Dupri: A developing talent, Dupri’s inclusion provides her with a valuable opportunity for exposure.
Becky Lynch: A former Royal Rumble winner (2019) and a multi-time women’s champion, Lynch remains one of the most popular and formidable competitors in the division.

With 17 women currently announced, the remaining 13 spots offer ample room for surprise returns, NXT call-ups, or additional international talent. The presence of eight former women’s world champions among the announced participants underscores the high level of competition expected, ensuring a compelling and unpredictable outcome that will directly influence the championship picture for WrestleMania 42.

AJ Styles vs. Gunther (Retirement Match):
Gunther’s self-proclaimed status as a "Legend Killer" has gained considerable traction following his decisive victories that led to the retirements of both John Cena and Goldberg last year. His current focus is on AJ Styles, a performer who has publicly stated his intention to retire from full-time competition in 2026. Gunther’s recent activities suggest an aim to expedite Styles’ departure from the squared circle. The rivalry escalated after Gunther secured a controversial victory over Styles on Monday Night Raw. Following this match, Gunther agreed to grant Styles a rematch at the Royal Rumble, but only under the stringent condition that if Styles were to lose, his career would officially conclude. This stipulation adds immense weight to the contest, making it a pivotal moment in Styles’ decorated career and a further opportunity for Gunther to solidify his reputation as one of WWE’s most dominant and unforgiving competitors.