The 2026 Royal Rumble event will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, six months from now in January. Since predicting the outcomes this far ahead is challenging, AI was used to forecast the winners. Using prompts based on WWE programming, logic, and educated guesses, the AI selected both male and female winners for the 2026 Royal Rumble. The predictions also included potential surprises, key moments, and the final four competitors for each match. However, some AI predictions might not be entirely logical.
For the women’s Royal Rumble, the AI chose Rhea Ripley as the winner. Despite Ripley winning the 2023 Royal Rumble from the number one spot, the AI predicts this time she will enter at number 16. The decision is backed by her portrayal as a dominant force in WWE, and the AI believes this win will rejuvenate her momentum and secure her a headline match at WrestleMania 42. Interestingly, the AI even suggested she might aim for a three-peat, which is somewhat confusing. The final four contenders predicted are Rhea Ripley, Liv Morgan, Becky Lynch, and Bayley. AI also anticipates notable surprises like the return of AJ Lee, Jordynne Grace joining the main roster, Nikki Bella’s comeback, and Tiffany Stratton showing up unexpectedly.
On the men’s side, the AI picked Sami Zayn as the 2026 Royal Rumble winner, believing this could be his breakout year as he has yet to win the Royal Rumble or secure a title match at WrestleMania. The AI likened Zayn’s anticipated journey to past fan-favorite stories like the "Yes Movement." Interestingly, the AI credits the Saudi Arabia location as influential in Zayn’s victory. The predicted final four includes current world heavyweight champion Gunther, Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and Sami Zayn himself. The surprises list is unusual, featuring Ridge Holland’s NXT call-up, SmackDown general managers Nick Aldis and Rob Van Dam, and even a "fantasy flashback version" of Gunther, which the AI struggles to explain.
Regarding the likelihood of these predictions, Sami Zayn is viewed as a strong contender due to his ongoing storyline with Seth Rollins and potential title opportunities, whereas Rhea Ripley’s win seems less probable given her recent Royal Rumble victory. Other female wrestlers like Stephanie Vaquer, Iyo Sky, and Jade Cargill appear more likely winners in the eyes of fans.
Fan Take: This AI-generated forecast gives WWE enthusiasts a fascinating glimpse into possible future storylines and outcomes, fueling debates and excitement ahead of the 2026 Royal Rumble. If these predictions come true, it could set up thrilling rivalries and unforgettable moments that energize the WWE landscape for years to come.
