WWE Royal Rumble 2026 is set to take place on January 31 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the first-ever Royal Rumble event hosted in the country. The show will stream live on Netflix as part of the Riyadh Season, adding further global attention to one of WWE’s most anticipated annual events.
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Alongside top stars from the current roster, speculation is growing around surprise appearances by legendary wrestlers and popular fan favourites. Royal Rumble matches are known for unexpected returns, and this year is no exception, with several well-known names being widely discussed among fans.
Chris Jericho is among the most talked-about potential returns. The former WWE and AEW world champion became a free agent after his contract with All Elite Wrestling reportedly expired at the end of December 2025. His history with WWE and reputation for surprise comebacks have fuelled rumours of a Rumble appearance.
In the women’s division, Paige is another name generating excitement. The former Divas Champion, who performed as Saraya in AEW, left the promotion in 2025 after winning the AEW Women’s World Championship. Fans believe her WWE return could mirror past surprise comebacks by AJ Lee and Nikki Bella.
Brie Bella has also been linked with a possible return following Nikki Bella’s comeback in 2025. While Brie has remained active through media appearances and WWE-related projects, she has yet to step back into the ring, making a Royal Rumble entry a strong possibility.
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Legendary superstar Kane is another name mentioned in speculation. Despite his current role as mayor of Knox County, Tennessee, fans believe a brief appearance could be possible. Kane last competed in a Royal Rumble match in 2021.
Big Show, who has wrestled across WCW, ECW, WWE and AEW, is also tipped for a potential surprise. While WWE has made no official announcements, speculation continues to build ahead of the event.