The road to WrestleMania 42 officially begins this Saturday with the 39th annual WWE Royal Rumble, live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—and this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With AJ Styles’ career on the line, Sami Zayn chasing destiny, and 60 Superstars fighting for two golden tickets, the hype is real.
Here’s a breakdown of the biggest matches, expert predictions, and what to expect when the countdown clock hits zero.
AJ Styles vs. Gunther: Career vs. Victory
Could this really be The Phenomenal One’s final match in WWE?
AJ Styles has said that 2026 would be his last year in wrestling, but no one expected his time to possibly end in January. The build to this match has added serious drama, with WWE teasing a farewell tour, and Styles filing trademarks for “The Phenomenal AJ Styles” and his iconic P1 logo—fueling speculation he may be preparing for life post-WWE.
Meanwhile, Gunther’s been on a path of destruction, adding big names to his growing list of victims. A win here not only ends Styles’ WWE career but cements Gunther as one of the greatest ring generals of his era.
Predictions
- Rick Ucchino: AJ Styles
- Zack Heydorn: Gunther
- Blake Lovell: AJ Styles
GPT Verdict: Styles wins in dramatic fashion to extend his run a little longer—setting up a proper farewell tour later this year.
WWE Championship: Drew McIntyre (c) vs. Sami Zayn
Is it finally time for Sami Zayn to win the big one?
It certainly feels like a now-or-never moment for Zayn, but the panel agrees: WWE is unlikely to have Drew McIntyre lose in his first title defense. While fans are still rooting for Sami, it looks like another emotional near-miss is coming.
Still, don’t rule him out just yet—some insiders believe he could find a way into the Men’s Royal Rumble for a second chance at WrestleMania glory, much like Becky Lynch did in 2019.
Predictions
- Rick Ucchino: Drew McIntyre
- Zack Heydorn: Drew McIntyre
- Blake Lovell: Drew McIntyre
GPT Verdict: McIntyre retains, but Zayn’s story isn’t over yet—expect a twist.
2026 Women’s Royal Rumble Match
This year’s women’s Rumble is filled with potential, but creative directions have narrowed the true contenders down to two names: Liv Morgan and the possibly-returning Bianca Belair.
With Becky Lynch, Rhea Ripley, and IYO SKY busy with other title pictures, and Charlotte Flair and Bayley focused on tag team storylines, it feels like Liv’s time has finally come. She’s been building momentum quietly, and WWE loves a good comeback story.
Bianca, meanwhile, would be a strong pick—if she’s cleared. Her unfinished business with Jade Cargill could make for a marquee WrestleMania 42 match.
Predictions
- Rick Ucchino: Liv Morgan
- Zack Heydorn: Bianca Belair
- Blake Lovell: Liv Morgan
GPT Verdict: Liv Morgan wins it all and points to the WrestleMania sign with purpose.
2026 Men’s Royal Rumble Match
The men’s match is wide open, with returning legends, top contenders, and rising stars all in the mix.
Names like Cody Rhodes, Brock Lesnar, and Roman Reigns dominate the conversation, but newer stars like Bron Breakker and Oba Femi could surprise. There’s also buzz around LA Knight, Chris Jericho, and even AEW-to-WWE newcomer Royce Keys (fka Powerhouse Hobbs).
However, Finn Balor might just be the dark horse to watch. After being left out of the title picture for too long, WWE may finally be pulling the trigger on The PrinXe. Meanwhile, Roman Reigns remains the favourite, and a win here could set up a historic WrestleMania showdown.
Predictions
- Rick Ucchino: Finn Balor
- Zack Heydorn: Roman Reigns
- Blake Lovell: Roman Reigns
GPT Verdict: Finn Balor shocks the world and punches his ticket to WrestleMania.
