The WWE Royal Rumble 2026 event draws near, sparking widespread excitement among fans eager to uncover potential surprise entrants in both the men’s and women’s matches. This annual spectacle thrives on unpredictability, often featuring returning legends, fresh debuts from NXT talents, or high-profile free agents. Speculation runs high for 2026, with several names emerging as strong possibilities to shake up the field.
Last year’s surprises, including appearances by iShowSpeed, Joe Hendry, and Alexa Bliss, highlighted the event’s diverse potential. As the countdown begins, here’s a look at key figures who could make a shock entry and alter the landscape heading into WrestleMania.
Chris Jericho
Chris Jericho remains a focal point of discussion following reports of his departure from All Elite Wrestling at the close of 2025. Although expectations for his debut on the first Raw of the year did not pan out, the Royal Rumble offers the perfect stage for such a dramatic return. Jericho’s European tour with his band Fozzy in February might delay a full transition, potentially positioning him better for the Raw after WrestleMania in April to sustain his momentum.
Bianca Belair
In the women’s division, Bianca Belair stands out as a prime candidate for a comeback. Absent from the ring since WrestleMania 41 in April 2025 due to a complicated broken finger injury, the EST’s return would electrify audiences. A matchup against SmackDown champion Jade Cargill or a tense encounter with Rhea Ripley during the Rumble could instantly ignite compelling storylines.
EVIL
For debuts, former New Japan Pro Wrestling standout EVIL draws attention after the promotion announced his exit at the end of January 2026. While the timing might prove tight for a WWE contract, the Rumble has history of swift integrations, making him a wrestler to watch closely.
Powerhouse Hobbs
Powerhouse Hobbs emerges as another debut prospect, having recently transitioned from AEW to WWE. With his impressive physique and skills, he possesses the attributes to become a breakout star. Feuds against powerhouses like Bron Breakker, Oba Femi, or GUNTHER could position him as an immediate main-roster force.
AJ Lee
AJ Lee appears poised for an unannounced entry into the women’s Rumble, marking her first participation in the 30-woman fray. This return would serve as an ideal reintroduction on the Road to WrestleMania. Eliminating longtime rival Becky Lynch to challenge for the Intercontinental Championship at the Show of Shows could create one of the night’s most memorable moments and lead to her first singles bout in over a decade.
Jeff Hardy
The ongoing WWE-TNA Wrestling partnership opens doors for cross-promotion, and Jeff Hardy fits perfectly as a returning legend. While TNA’s Nic Nemeth (Dolph Ziggler) has appeared during John Cena’s retirement tour, Hardy’s main-roster absence exceeds four years despite recent NXT spots. Once a global fan favorite as the Charismatic Enigma, his surprise involvement would deliver a heartfelt, nostalgic highlight for the audience.
These possibilities underscore the Royal Rumble’s allure, blending nostalgia with fresh excitement. As the event unfolds, each entry promises to fuel the hype toward WrestleMania.
