The 2026 Royal Rumble PLE is drawing near, and fans eagerly await this year’s event, with the Royal Rumble match itself being the highlight of the WWE calendar. The thrill largely stems from its unpredictability and the chance of surprise entrants. Throughout the years, the women’s division has seen unexpected participants ranging from Hall of Famers and former champions to unexpected nostalgic cameos.
This coming year might bring some genuine surprises. While it would be exciting to witness some wildly unexpected names, realistically, some contenders have a greater chance of appearing than others.
Trish Stratus
- Trish has made two surprise entries in past Royal Rumbles.
- She has wrestled intermittently for WWE in recent years.
- Her last match was against Tiffany Stratton at Evolution.
Stratus continues to step back into the ring without showing any loss of skill or vigor. Fans should always keep her in mind as a potential surprise Royal Rumble entrant since she frequently expresses interest in returning. Given her multiple matches last year and participation in Evolution 2025 and Elimination Chamber 2025, a 2026 Royal Rumble appearance seems likely.
Tiffany Stratton
- Has not been seen on WWE since November last year.
- Lost the WWE Women’s Championship to Jade Cargill.
- WWE has not disclosed details about her absence.
After losing the WWE Women’s title to Jade Cargill last November at Saturday Night’s main event, Stratton has been off TV. The Royal Rumble could serve as a realistic platform for her comeback and quest for redemption. If she returns, she would be one of the top contenders and might reignite her rivalry with Cargill.
Brie Bella
- Fans have anticipated her WWE return all year.
- Her twin, Nikki Bella, has been a regular on WWE programming in 2025.
- Brie last wrestled in the 2022 Royal Rumble.
With Nikki Bella back on WWE screens, speculation has grown regarding Brie’s possible comeback. Rumors about the twins competing for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship haven’t materialized yet, but there’s still an opportunity before WrestleMania season. Brie’s surprise appearance at the Royal Rumble seems plausible since she also made a cameo there recently.
Bianca Belair
- Her last match was at WrestleMania 41.
- Sidelined for almost a year due to a hand injury.
- She won the 2021 Royal Rumble match.
Belair’s fans have eagerly awaited her return after being out with a severe knuckle injury since WrestleMania 41. A surprise comeback at the 2026 Royal Rumble is a likely scenario. As a former Royal Rumble winner, she could make a significant impact, though Charlotte Flair’s recent win means no one is favored to repeat easily.
The IIconics (Peyton Royce and Billie Kay)
- Both are currently free agents.
- They recently exited TNA, where they were Knockouts Tag Team Champions.
- Had a brief NXT appearance in 2025.
With Royce and Kay parting ways with TNA, they might consider returning to WWE, where they had a short stint last year. The IIconics remain fan favorites, and their entry into the 2026 Royal Rumble could reenergize WWE’s growing women’s tag team division.
Nattie Neidhart
- Recently turned heel, attacking Maxine Dupri.
- Could debut a new character during the Royal Rumble.
- This would provide a novel and entertaining surprise.
“Natalya” has been active on RAW recently but shifting to an alternate persona like Natty Neidhart would be a refreshing twist for Royal Rumble viewers. Fans have long hoped to see this indie-style character, making the Rumble a perfect stage for her to unveil it.
Michelle McCool
- Known for surprise Royal Rumble appearances.
- WWE is thought to be planning to add legends to the Rumble.
- Last participated in the 2023 Royal Rumble.
Even though retired for nearly 15 years, McCool has had a noteworthy Royal Rumble legacy, including three appearances and numerous eliminations. As a Hall of Famer and frequent presence alongside WWE legends, her inclusion would add prestige and excitement.
AJ Lee
- Has made sporadic appearances since returning in 2025.
- Her Royal Rumble entry would still be a surprise, given current part-time involvement.
- Last fought at Survivor Series 2025.
AJ Lee has maintained a part-time WWE role since her comeback, most recently at Survivor Series PLE. Her unexpected Royal Rumble debut would be welcomed by fans anticipating another showdown, possibly setting the stage for a WrestleMania clash with Becky Lynch.
Fan Take:
This lineup of potential 2026 Royal Rumble surprises sparks immense excitement for WWE fans, signaling that the event could be packed with unforgettable moments and star-studded returns. These surprise entrants not only celebrate the sport’s rich history but also pave the way for fresh storylines and intense rivalries that keep WWE thrilling and unpredictable.
