The upcoming WWE premium live event (PLE) is set to be the Royal Rumble on January 31, 2026, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the start of the journey to WrestleMania 42. Known for unexpected moments, this year’s Rumble may feature the return of Jacob Fatu, alongside updates about a SmackDown star’s TV absence.
Jacob Fatu has been absent from WWE since October after being attacked backstage by Drew McIntyre during SmackDown. Fans are eagerly anticipating his comeback. Reports from Bodyslam.net indicate that Fatu is expected to make his return in early 2026, with WWE aiming for a breakthrough year for the 33-year-old. Initially introduced as a major heel when he joined WWE in June 2024, his popularity dipped after he switched to a babyface role.
Fatu has long been rumored as a future main event talent in WWE, a view supported by Cody Rhodes. His absence was likely due to dental surgery, but a return is anticipated soon. The Royal Rumble could be the stage for his comeback, especially since surprise entrants are a staple of the event. Additionally, Chris Jericho, who is leaving AEW at the end of 2024, may also make a WWE debut early in 2025, possibly during the Netflix anniversary episode of RAW on January 6.
Fans and insiders believe Jacob Fatu should return as a heel. Despite being popular even as a heel, the company seems focused on the prolonged feud between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre due to a lack of challengers for Rhodes’ WWE Championship. Bringing Fatu back in his heel persona could allow him to immediately become a significant contender for the title. He was dominant in his early WWE days and was once viewed as a potential rival for Roman Reigns, which never materialized.
Reintroducing Fatu as a heel could provide WWE with more storytelling options to elevate him to main event status. This comeback could also coincide with the main roster debut of NXT Champion Oba Femi, potentially creating a thrilling rivalry between these two powerful wrestlers. Such a matchup, anticipated for later in 2026, promises to be a highlight on WWE programming and a sign of WWE’s new era focusing on fresh, dynamic “big men.”
Fan Take: Jacob Fatu’s return is a significant moment for WWE fans as it signals the revival of a promising star with main event potential. His comeback, especially as a heel, could inject fresh energy into WWE’s championship scene and set the stage for epic rivalries that will shape the future of pro wrestling.
