WWE Royal Rumble 2026: the rumored names and the ones falling off

We are in Royal Rumble week and, as every year, speculations about possible surprises and returns are once again on the rise. The 2026 edition comes with an important particularity: the event is being held in Saudi Arabia, which eliminates the usual presence of WrestleCon and reduces the number of former wrestlers who are usually "coincidentally" in the city.

Even so, the Rumble always leaves room for the unexpected. With that context, several names have been the subject of conversation among fans and within the industry, whether due to planned trips, contractual situations, or simple calendar coincidences. Fightful has revealed the situation of various talents.

In the case of Chris Jericho, he continues to be listed on the official AEW roster page, something that normally changes when a wrestler leaves the company. In recent days, there was also a false rumor circulating about a supposed registration of the "Judas" trademark by WWE, which did not happen.

LA Knight is gaining more strength in the conversation. At the beginning of the month, he was scheduled to travel to Saudi Arabia and, as it has been learned, there is decoration and material prepared suggesting his presence at the event.

The IInspiration, after their departure from TNA, are not expected to be at the Royal Rumble even though they have sparked interest from other companies. In a different situation is Powerhouse Hobbs, already officially signed by WWE. Although he did not travel on the charter flight with the rest of the talent, it would be surprising if he was not at least present during the weekend.

Tiffany Stratton was also internally listed as talent traveling to Saudi Arabia, as reported by WrestleVotes Radio several weeks ago. Her situation seems clearer than that of other names that are still up in the air.

Saraya is one of the most talked-about cases. She had a convention scheduled until last week, but the event was relocated due to venue scheduling issues, not due to a cancellation related to WWE. At least in terms of schedule, the door is open.

In terms of absences, Kevin Owens did not have WWE medical clearance over the weekend of Saturday Night's Main Event. Seth Rollins has publicly stated that he will not be at the Royal Rumble, which aligns with the internal expectation that he would not physically make it in time.

Zoey Stark continues to recover from an anterior cruciate ligament injury, while Michin, also recently injured, did not travel to Saudi Arabia. On the other hand, Sol Ruca is scheduled for the event, as part of an NXT talent group accompanying the main roster.

As always, the Royal Rumble thrives on this gray area between the possible and the improbable. Some names seem ruled out, others are well positioned, and several are in that space where an unexpected music can change everything in a matter of seconds.