The 2026 WWE Royal Rumble is expected to include surprise entrants in both the men’s and women’s matches. Among those likely to make an unexpected return are several former NXT Champions. Here are five past NXT titleholders who might step back into the ring for the upcoming Royal Rumble.
5. Paige
Paige made history as the first-ever NXT Women’s Champion in 2013 and also became a two-time WWE Divas Champion. Although she retired from active wrestling due to injury before her WWE career ended, she resurfaced in 2022 at AEW under the name Saraya. Since departing AEW in March 2025, speculation has grown about her potential WWE comeback. With notable returns like Nikki Bella at the 2025 Royal Rumble and AJ Lee set to appear later in the year, Paige is poised to be the next major Divas-era star to make a surprising Rumble appearance.
Fan Take:
Paige’s possible return to WWE at the Royal Rumble is exciting for longtime fans who cherish the Divas era, as it brings a beloved and influential figure back into the spotlight. Her involvement could spark renewed interest in the Women’s Division and create fresh storylines that honor WWE’s rich history while energizing the future of the sport.
