The 2026 WWE Royal Rumble is promising more surprises than ever before — and another one may have just been revealed. According to PWInsider, Jacy Jayne, the reigning NXT Women’s Champion, is set to appear in the Women’s Royal Rumble match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Jayne joins a growing list of NXT talent stepping up to the main stage, and her presence could shift the dynamics of the match entirely.
Jacy Jayne Enters the Rumble Spotlight
Jayne, who shocked fans last year by defeating Stephanie Vaquer to capture her first NXT Women’s Championship, has been one of the most featured stars on NXT television throughout 2025. Though she was initially scheduled for NXT live events this weekend, reports indicate she’s been pulled from those shows and is now headed to Riyadh for the Rumble.
While not officially announced, her arrival as a surprise entrant aligns with WWE’s tradition of integrating top NXT stars into the Royal Rumble to test the waters for future main roster pushes.
The NXT Influence: Who Else Could Appear?
Last year’s Royal Rumble was stacked with NXT women’s talent, including:
- Lash Legend
- Lyra Valkyria
- Jaida Parker
- Jordynne Grace
- Giulia
- Stephanie Vaquer
This year is expected to follow that same trend, with NXT being treated as a full third brand. Jayne could be joined by other breakout stars from the women’s division.
WWE Teases More Major Rumble Surprises
WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H has confirmed that both the men’s and women’s Rumble matches will feature major surprises, and fans are buzzing about the possibilities.
Rumored Female Returnees & Surprises
- Bianca Belair – Out with injury for most of 2025, rumored to return at the Rumble
- Brie Bella – Could join her sister Nikki, who returned last year
- Lita or Trish Stratus – Hall of Famers with a history of Rumble appearances
- Alexa Bliss – Returned last year and could factor in again
With Charlotte Flair, Rhea Ripley, Alexa Bliss, and Jordynne Grace already confirmed or expected in the match, adding Jacy Jayne further boosts an already star-studded women’s lineup.
What About the Men’s Rumble Surprises?
Names Currently in the Rumor Mill:
- Chad Gable – Injured in 2025, expected to return soon
- RVD (Rob Van Dam) – A fan-favourite for shock appearances
- Bron Breakker – Already confirmed as entrant #1
- Jacob Fatu, Randy Orton, Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso – All confirmed or teased to appear
But the biggest name floating around? Chris Jericho.
Chris Jericho – Is the Lionheart Returning to WWE?
There’s serious buzz that Chris Jericho, one of wrestling’s biggest icons, is set to return to WWE. While not confirmed, reports claim that Jericho is preparing to re-sign with WWE, and a surprise Rumble return would be a game-changing moment.
If Jericho appears, it would mark his first WWE appearance in years after a successful run in AEW. The shock factor would be immense — and instantly elevate this year’s Royal Rumble to legendary status.
What’s Confirmed for Royal Rumble 2026?
Event Date: Saturday afternoon (local time in Saudi Arabia)
Watch Live:
- ESPN (US)
- Netflix (International)
Confirmed Matches:
- Men’s Royal Rumble Match
- Women’s Royal Rumble Match
- Gunther vs. AJ Styles (Styles’ WWE career on the line)
- Drew McIntyre (c) vs. Sami Zayn – Undisputed WWE Championship
