This article contains spoilers and results for WWE Royal Rumble—proceed with caution!
The journey to WrestleMania 42 officially begins as WWE hosts the Royal Rumble for the first time outside the United States. Saudi Arabia becomes the inaugural international host for this huge event, featuring 30 men and 30 women competing for a championship match spot at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.
At the event, WWE Undisputed Champion Drew McIntyre defended his title against undefeated Sami Zayn, while AJ Styles risked his career against Gunther in what may be his final WWE Premium Live event.
WWE Royal Rumble Results
- Liv Morgan triumphed over Tiffany Stratton to win the Women’s Royal Rumble, earning her championship match at WrestleMania 42.
- Gunther secured a submission victory over AJ Styles.
- Drew McIntyre retained the WWE Undisputed Championship by pinning Sami Zayn.
- Roman Reigns eliminated Gunther to win the Men’s Royal Rumble, granting him a championship match at WrestleMania 42.
Liv Morgan Secures WrestleMania Main Event Spot
Liv Morgan, one of the top fan favorites in the women’s division, finally achieved her WrestleMania main event opportunity by winning the Women’s Royal Rumble. Overcoming 29 other competitors and defeating Tiffany Stratton, Morgan’s road to the spotlight was complemented by dramatic moments where she eliminated Raquel Rodriguez and Rhea Ripley, effectively dismantling Judgment Day. Despite a challenging 2025 marked by a significant shoulder injury, Morgan’s victory marks a triumphant return.
AJ Styles Bows Out, Ending WWE Career
In a highly emotional and intense match, Gunther submitted AJ Styles, bringing the Phenomenal One’s WWE career to an end after a decade-long run. While Styles’ future outside WWE remains uncertain—whether retirement is permanent or leading to stints in other promotions—his final WWE match in Saudi Arabia signifies the end of an era. Notably, Styles did not leave his gloves in the ring, hinting that he might not be finished with wrestling altogether.
Roman Reigns Claims Victory and WrestleMania Shot
Roman Reigns captured the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble, marking a powerful resurgence of the Tribal Chief’s dominance in WWE. Eliminating Gunther to clinch the win, Reigns has secured his spot in the headline match at WrestleMania 42. The anticipation builds as it remains unclear whom Reigns will face, with Drew McIntyre and CM Punk as possible challengers. McIntyre is expected to choose Punk for a showdown in Las Vegas, potentially setting up fresh rivalries with Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu.
Fan Take:
This year’s Royal Rumble is pivotal as it not only expands WWE’s global footprint by taking place in Saudi Arabia but also sets up high-stakes storylines leading into WrestleMania 42. With Roman Reigns and Liv Morgan headlining the event, and AJ Styles’ WWE career possibly ending, fans can expect a mix of thrilling matches and emotional moments that could define the future landscape of professional wrestling.
