As the WWE Royal Rumble 2026 approaches within hours, wrestling enthusiasts across the globe are immersed in feverish speculation regarding the potential surprise entrants for this year's iconic event. Annually, the Royal Rumble stands as professional wrestling's most unpredictable contest, with several slots traditionally reserved for returning legends, newly signed talents, or debuting stars from the NXT developmental brand.
The Anticipation Builds for Royal Rumble 2026
For the 2026 edition, this tradition remains firmly intact, with a plethora of names circulating as possible shock appearances in either the men's or women's matches. These range from future Hall of Famers to significant free agents whose arrivals could electrify the WWE Universe. While certainty only arrives when the countdown reaches zero and the buzzer sounds, the annual speculation forms an integral part of the event's allure and excitement.
Last year's Royal Rumble set a high bar for surprises, featuring unexpected appearances from personalities like iShowSpeed, Joe Hendry, and Alexa Bliss, demonstrating the diverse range of talents WWE can unveil. The question now is whether the 2026 event can meet or even surpass those lofty expectations. Below, we explore some of the most compelling candidates rumoured to join the Royal Rumble fray.
Potential Returns and Debuts
Chris Jericho has become a focal point of speculation following reports of his departure from All Elite Wrestling at the close of 2025. Although anticipated appearances on the first Raw of the year did not materialise, the Royal Rumble is perfectly crafted for such monumental moments. However, doubts persist as Jericho is scheduled to tour Europe with his band Fozzy in February, suggesting a potential strategic delay until the Raw after WrestleMania in April to maintain momentum.
On the women's side, Bianca Belair emerges as a top contender for a triumphant return. Having been absent from the ring since WrestleMania 41 in April 2025 due to complications from a broken finger, fans are eagerly awaiting the return of the EST of WWE. Her comeback could instantly reignite rivalries, such as with current SmackDown champion Jade Cargill, or set up a dream confrontation with Rhea Ripley should drama unfold during the Rumble match.
Regarding potential debuts, EVIL, the former New Japan Pro Wrestling star, is a name to watch closely. NJPW confirmed his departure 'at the end of January 2026,' making this weekend's Rumble a plausible, if tight, timeline for a WWE debut. While it may seem rushed, the wrestling world has witnessed stranger occurrences.
Another anticipated debut is Powerhouse Hobbs, the latest talent rumoured to transition from AEW to WWE. Possessing all the attributes of a future major star, potential showdowns with established names like Bron Breakker, Oba Femi, and GUNTHER could instantly establish him as a compelling attraction on the main roster.
AJ Lee, though not the most shocking prediction, remains unannounced for the Rumble and is considered a strong candidate to appear. Having never participated in the 30-woman match, her inclusion would serve as an excellent reintroduction on the Road to WrestleMania. A scenario where she eliminates rival Becky Lynch to set up an Intercontinental Championship match at the Show of Shows would undoubtedly energise fans and build anticipation for her first singles match in over a decade.
The recent partnership between WWE and TNA Wrestling has facilitated talent exchanges, and the Royal Rumble presents an ideal platform to continue this trend. While Dolph Ziggler, also known as Nic Nemeth, recently featured during John Cena's retirement tour, Jeff Hardy stands out as an excellent choice for a returning legend. Despite appearances on NXT, it has been over four years since the Charismatic Enigma graced the main roster, a period during which he was among the most popular wrestlers worldwide. Now seems an opportune moment to grant him and the fans a truly special and memorable experience.
