WWE's Royal Rumble is nearly here to kick off the Road to Wrestlemania. The Jan. 31 event is already gearing up to be epic, but what makes this year's Royal Rumble even more noteworthy is the fact that it'll take place, for the first time ever, outside of North America and in the city of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The professional wrestling battle royale hits the global stage with a formidable amount of buzz. Whoever wins the Men's and Women's 30-person Royal Rumble matches will get their shot at the world championship belt of their choosing at Wrestlemania 42. Last year's Rumble saw Jey Uso walk away the winner, besting John Cena in the process, and he went on to win the World Heavyweight Championship title from Gunther.
This year, it's anyone's game. Although rumors are swirling regarding Roman Reigns' involvement and whether Chris Jericho will make his WWE return since his AEW contract expired in 2025. The match I am most excited for, though, is AJ Styles and Gunther. After Gunther defeated Cena during his final match in December, Styles has had his eyes on putting the Ring General in his place. Will this rematch find the Phenomenal One victorious, or will he be forced to retire earlier than planned?
What should viewers expect this time around from the Premium Live Event? Read on to find out everything you need to know about WWE's 39th annual Royal Rumble.
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Jimmy and Jey Uso make their entrance during the Dec. 8 episode of Monday Night RAW. Bradlee Rutledge/WWE via Getty Images
WWE Royal Rumble 2026 match card
Here are the confirmed matches for the WWE Royal Rumble 2026:
Drew McIntyre versus TBA for the WWE Championship (the challenger will be decided on Jan. 24 at Saturday Night's Main Event)
AJ Styles versus Gunther (if Styles loses, he must retire from in-ring competition)
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