The 2026 Royal Rumble PLE is fast approaching, and comparing it to last year’s 2025 Royal Rumble reveals some interesting developments in WWE over the past twelve months. A lot can change in a year within WWE, with shifts in championships, wrestler roles, and career trajectories shaping the current landscape.
Several notable transformations stand out. For instance, Jey Uso, who won the 2025 Men’s Royal Rumble and subsequently claimed the World Heavyweight Title at WrestleMania 41, has shifted from headlining as a solo star to now being a tag team champion alongside his brother in The Usos. Despite his previous main event status, his loss of the World Title led to a drop in fan support, ultimately pushing him back into tag team competition.
Meanwhile, John Cena, a top contender and runner-up in the 2025 Royal Rumble, retired from WWE in 2025, concluding his in-ring career after a final loss to Gunter on Saturday Night. His retirement marks the end of an era, with Cena leaving the sport just before this year’s big event.
Bron Breakker, who was a mid-carder and Intercontinental Champion during last year’s Rumble, has experienced a significant rise. He is now aligned with Paul Heyman and positioned as one of the top heels on Monday Night RAW, solidifying his status as a main event threat and a favorite for the upcoming Royal Rumble.
On the women’s side, Charlotte Flair returned from a year-long absence to win the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble, initially receiving a cold reception from fans that led to an awkward heel turn. However, through hard work and a strong alliance with Alexa Bliss, she has since transformed into a beloved babyface, becoming one of WWE’s most popular figures today.
Kevin Owens’ future with WWE remains uncertain after challenging Cody Rhodes in a thrilling WWE Championship ladder match at the 2025 Royal Rumble and feuding with Sami Zayn at Elimination Chamber. Owens had to step away for major neck surgery and has yet to make a return, leaving his career hanging in the balance.
Lastly, Stefani Vaquel, who made a surprising cameo in the 2025 Royal Rumble through her performance in NXT, has since been promoted to WWE’s main roster. Now the reigning Women’s World Champion, Vaquel will enter this year’s Royal Rumble as one of the division’s top stars, marking a remarkable ascent over the past year.
Fan Take: These developments highlight how quickly fortunes can change in WWE, with rising stars, retirements, and shifting fan allegiances all playing pivotal roles. For WWE fans, this evolving landscape makes the 2026 Royal Rumble especially exciting as it showcases both fresh talent and the legacy of established stars, promising a dynamic future for the sport.
