The 2026 WWE Royal Rumble is shaping up to be one of the most star-studded in years, with several big names already throwing their hats into the ring. On Friday Night SmackDown, a wave of Superstars officially declared their entry, giving fans a clearer picture of what to expect when the action goes down on Saturday, January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Roman Reigns returns—and tension with Cody rises
The biggest headline of the night was the announcement that Roman Reigns will return to WWE television for the first time since Survivor Series: WarGames, where his team fell short against Team Vision. After the loss, things got heated between Reigns and Cody Rhodes, creating serious buzz ahead of a likely confrontation in the Royal Rumble match.
Rhodes and Reigns have long been on a collision course, and fans will be watching closely to see how things unfold between The Tribal Chief and The American Nightmare in Riyadh.
Updated list of 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble entrants
So far, 8 male Superstars have been confirmed for the 30-man match, meaning 22 spots remain open. Some of the biggest names in wrestling history are already set to compete:
- Cody Rhodes: Back-to-back Royal Rumble winner (2023, 2024)
- Roman Reigns: 2015 winner, 36 career eliminations
- Rey Mysterio: 2006 winner, second most time spent in Rumble history
- Jey Uso: 2025 Royal Rumble winner
- Gunther: 2023 runner-up, men’s Iron Man record holder (1:11:40)
- Dragon Lee
- Penta
- Solo Sikoa
These names already promise a mix of high stakes, experience, and fresh rivalries. With Reigns and Cody both in the match, it adds another layer to their ongoing story.
Updated list of 2026 Women’s Royal Rumble entrants
The women’s field is more crowded, with 16 competitors already confirmed, leaving just 14 open spots. Many former winners and top contenders are returning, alongside rising stars and international talent:
- Charlotte Flair: 2020 & 2025 winner, only two-time Women’s Rumble winner
- Rhea Ripley: 2023 winner, 20 career eliminations
- Bayley: 2024 winner, second most time spent in Women’s Rumble history
- Asuka: Inaugural Women’s Royal Rumble winner (2018)
- Liv Morgan: Two-time runner-up (2023, 2024), tied for most appearances
- Roxanne Perez: 2025 runner-up, Iron Woman record holder (1:07:47)
- Nia Jax: All-time eliminations leader (28)
- Chelsea Green: Shortest time in Rumble history (5 seconds in 2023)
- Giulia: Current Women’s United States Champion
- IYO SKY
- Alexa Bliss
- Lyra Valkyria
- Raquel Rodriguez
- Kairi Sane
- Jordynne Grace
- Lash Legend
This blend of past champions, dominant forces, and new faces makes this year’s Women’s Royal Rumble feel wide open.
What about R-Truth?
Fan-favourite R-Truth joked that he was willing to “put his balls on the line” to be part of the Rumble, but SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis didn’t officially add him to the match. As always with Truth, though, you can never count out a surprise appearance.
Looking ahead to Royal Rumble 2026
With just over a week to go, the Royal Rumble match cards are already packed with legends, champions, and fan favourites. And with 14 women’s and 22 men’s spots still up for grabs, expect more surprises, shocking returns, and wildcards in the coming days.
Whether you’re rooting for a returning legend like Reigns or Flair, an underdog like Dragon Lee or Roxanne Perez, or just looking forward to who might show up next, Royal Rumble 2026 is building up to be can’t-miss.
