Rumble Rumble Saturday is here! The 2026 Royal Rumble airs live at 2:00 p.m. ET on ESPN Unlimited and is taking place at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is the first Royal Rumble event occurring outside North America.
Every year, there is plenty of speculation about whether wrestlers will return and whether anyone will debut in the event. Before today’s Royal Rumble, I detail a few wrestlers who could potentially appear.
Possible Surprises at the 2026 Royal Rumble
Chris Jericho
The No. 1 surprise on everyone’s mind for this year’s Royal Rumble is Chris Jericho. From 1999 to 2018, Jericho competed in WWE with a few breaks in between, but put together one of the greatest careers in company history. After spending six years in AEW, he wrestled his last match for the promotion in April 2025 and hasn’t appeared since. Jericho is a grand slam WWE Champion, and there is no better place for him to end his legendary career. Although his name has been rumored, if Jericho does make his long-awaited return at the Rumble, it would ignite the WWE Universe.
Powerhouse Hobbs
Hobbs debuted in AEW in 2020 and recently wrestled his last match for the promotion. It is rumored that Hobbs is on his way to WWE, and he would be a perfect addition to the Royal Rumble. Having Hobbs face off with Brock Lesnar, Oba Femi, and Bronson Reed, among other heavy hitters, would create viral moments.
EVIL
Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer reported on January 25 that former IWGP Heavyweight Champion EVIL is leaving NJPW and heading to WWE. Although he may go to NXT first, at 39, EVIL could make an immediate impact on the WWE main roster. In the United States, EVIL isn’t the most well-known wrestler, but has the skills to succeed in WWE if given opportunities.
Jeff and Matt Hardy
The Hardy Boyz are one of the greatest tag teams in WWE history and have a possibility to enter this year’s Royal Rumble match since WWE has a partnership with TNA. As we saw in their last surprise appearance at WrestleMania 33, if either or both Hardys enter this match, it would create an electric moment.
WWE Royal Rumble 2026: FAQ
Where will the 2026 Royal Rumble take place?
The Royal Rumble is taking place at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
What time does the 2026 Royal Rumble start?
The main card for the Royal Rumble begins at 2:00 p.m. ET.
How can I watch the 2026 Royal Rumble?
Fans in the U.S. can view this event live on ESPN Unlimited.
