WWE ranks the best returns in Royal Rumble history

WWE has chosen John Cena's return at the 2008 Royal Rumble as the best comeback of all time within the most unpredictable match of the year. The company recently posted a video on its official YouTube channel reviewing the 25 most memorable comebacks in Royal Rumble history, with Cena taking the top spot in the ranking.

Cena's appearance in 2008 continues to be remembered as one of the most surprising moments ever seen in WWE. The wrestler returned from a serious pectoral injury much earlier than expected, entering as the 30th participant to a completely incredulous Madison Square Garden.

The ranking also highlights more recent comebacks, such as Cody Rhodes in 2023, Edge in 2020, or Alexa Bliss in 2025, mixing legendary moments from the past with modern returns that made history.

These types of lists reinforce the value of the Royal Rumble as the ideal stage for unexpected comebacks, major surprises, and moments designed to be etched in the collective memory of fans.

The 25 best comebacks in Royal Rumble history according to WWE

1. John Cena - Royal Rumble 2008
2. Cody Rhodes - Royal Rumble 2023
3. Edge - Royal Rumble 2020
4. Alexa Bliss - Royal Rumble 2025
5. Roddy Piper - Royal Rumble 2008
6. Naomi - Royal Rumble 2024
7. Rob Van Dam - Royal Rumble 2009
8. Rey Mysterio - Royal Rumble 2018
9. The Undertaker - Royal Rumble 2003
10. Chris Jericho - Royal Rumble 2013
11. Booker T - Royal Rumble 2011
12. Diesel - Royal Rumble 2011
13. Trish Stratus - Royal Rumble 2018
14. Charlotte Flair - Royal Rumble 2025
15. Mickie James - Royal Rumble 2022
16. Mr. Perfect - Royal Rumble 2002
17. Bubba Ray Dudley - Royal Rumble 2015
18. Nia Jax - Royal Rumble 2023
19. The Hurricane - Royal Rumble 2018
20. Melina - Royal Rumble 2022
21. Nikki Bella - Royal Rumble 2025
22. Road Dogg - Royal Rumble 2012
23. DDP - Royal Rumble 2015
24. Jake "The Snake" Roberts - Royal Rumble 1996
25. Ronda Rousey - Royal Rumble 2022