As the new year draws near, wrestling enthusiasts eagerly anticipate one of the most thrilling events on the calendar: the Royal Rumble. Each year, fans speculate about the surprises and star appearances in the Royal Rumble match, but with this year’s event set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the element of surprise might be somewhat limited. Nonetheless, the roster is packed with enough talent to ensure an exciting competition.
Here are our predictions for every participant in the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble match.
Roman Reigns
Roman Reigns has yet to reclaim the championship following his remarkable Universal Championship reign, but that may change in 2026. A tense showdown between Cody Rhodes and Reigns during Survivor Series has sparked talk that their rivalry will conclude at WrestleMania 42. Reigns is aiming for another shot at the title before WrestleMania, making it highly likely he will compete in this year’s Royal Rumble—one of the earliest matches to be announced.
Fan Take: This news is significant for WWE fans because Roman Reigns remains a cornerstone of the brand, and his participation in the Royal Rumble sets the stage for high-stakes storytelling heading into WrestleMania. The potential showdown with Cody Rhodes could elevate the drama, making 2026 a must-watch year for wrestling enthusiasts.
