The 2026 WWE Royal Rumble is just days away, sparking speculation about who will emerge victorious in both the men’s and women’s matches. While there are several female superstars drawing attention, the men’s contest features one standout wrestler poised to create a memorable moment, setting the stage for what could be the most thrilling WrestleMania clash of the year. Sami Zayn appears to be the prime candidate to win the Royal Rumble for many reasons. Although he already has a WWE Championship match against Drew McIntyre at PLE, capturing the title there might not be the ideal storyline development.
Sami Zayn Has Never Held a World Championship
Despite winning the NXT Championship, Sami Zayn has never claimed a top-tier title on Raw or SmackDown. Throughout his career, he has faced off against notable stars such as Kevin Owens and injected fresh energy into the once-stale Bloodline storyline with his comedic flair. After a successful run in the independent circuit as El Generico, Rami Sebei debuted in WWE NXT in 2013 as Sami Zayn. With his undeniable talent and charisma, he quickly became one of NXT’s most beloved underdogs, earning an NXT Championship reign and a high-profile main roster debut against John Cena for the United States Championship.
Despite a decade on WWE’s main roster, Zayn has never reached world champion status. However, this hasn’t diminished his contributions; his involvement in the Bloodline saga, feuds with Kevin Owens, and multiple secondary titles—including the Intercontinental, United States, and Tag Team Championships—have left a lasting impression. While he has come close to winning the top prize before, falling short has become part of his enduring narrative.
Zayn Should Lose to Drew McIntyre, Then Win the Royal Rumble
On SmackDown 2026, Sami Zayn declared his ambition to become the undisputed WWE Champion. This led to a number one contender’s match where he triumphed over Randy Orton, Trick Williams, and Damian Priest, earning a title shot against Drew McIntyre at the Royal Rumble. Many fans wonder if this is finally Zayn’s moment to shine, especially since the event takes place in Riyadh, where he can proudly represent his heritage.
However, it might be better if Zayn doesn’t capture the WWE Championship just yet. McIntyre only recently won the belt, and it would make little sense to take it from him so quickly. Instead, Zayn could suffer a loss early in the night, appearing discouraged and ready to quit but ultimately finding the strength to continue. Then, entering the Royal Rumble match, Zayn could eliminate top stars like Roman Reigns and emerge victorious. While the Royal Rumble win isn’t as prestigious as the WWE Championship itself, it represents a significant moment that proves WWE’s faith in Sami Zayn. This victory would set him up as the headliner for WrestleMania 42, where he’s unlikely to lose again on wrestling’s grandest stage.
Zayn Could Deliver WWE Its Long-Awaited WrestleMania Moment
As WrestleMania 42 approaches, there’s a noticeable lack of blockbuster matches set for the main event. Big names like John Cena have left, Brock Lesnar isn’t the dominant force he once was, and the highly anticipated Rock vs. Roman Reigns showdown has been canceled. WWE could go with Roman Reigns facing World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk or perhaps a triple threat among Drew McIntyre, Cody Rhodes, and Jacob Fatu for the WWE title—but none of these feel as compelling as Sami Zayn.
Zayn’s underdog journey has the potential to echo the iconic moments of Daniel Bryan’s YES! Movement and Kofi Kingston’s KofiMania, both culminating in unforgettable WrestleMania victories. The opponent or title isn’t as important as the man himself. Whether it’s Drew McIntyre, Cody Rhodes, Jacob Fatu, CM Punk, or another contender, Sami Zayn becoming world champion at WrestleMania 42 would be a perfect chapter in his story—and it all should begin with a Royal Rumble victory in Riyadh.
Fan Take:
This storyline is crucial for WWE fans yearning for fresh, emotionally resonant main event stories that break the predictable mold. Sami Zayn’s rise to the top could reinvigorate WWE’s landscape, inspiring underdog fans and creating one of the most heartfelt WrestleMania moments in recent history.
