Predicting Early Favorites to Win the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble

In one of WWE's most controversial decisions, the 2026 Royal Rumble will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, eliminating the chance for many wrestling fans to flock to the destination for the premium live event.

Despite the decision, it won't stop fans debating who will win the men's and women's 30-person Battle Royals to determine the WrestleMania 42 main events.

Here are the early front-runners to succeed in the 2026 Royal Rumble.

Men's 2026 Royal Rumble Favorites

Sami Zayn

One of the biggest reasons why the Royal Rumble has become so popular with fans is the intrigue associated with an underdog stunning the world and earning a chance at WrestleMania that normally wouldn't have been afforded.

In 2026, there will be no better option than Sami Zayn.

The Underdog from the Underground is one of WWE's most beloved characters, and his Middle Eastern heritage helps make Zayn a big favorite to win in Saudi Arabia at the start of next year.

CM Punk

Triple H and WWE Creative understand the value of CM Punk, but his issues with injuries have forced the company to limit his in-ring action.

If WWE wants to keep Punk healthy for WrestleMania 42 season, giving him the rest of 2025 off and bringing him back as a surprise entrant in the men's Rumble match could result in a marquee win that sets the stage for a true 'Mania main event.

Drew McIntyre

Zayn may be more popular and Punk may be the bigger name, but no Superstar on the WWE roster deserves the win in Riyadh more than Drew McIntyre.

The former WWE champion's matches never disappoint, and his heel work has transcended wrestling.

All signs point to Cody Rhodes winning back his title from John Cena, and it should be the Scot who steals it from him at The Show of Shows next April.

Women's 2026 Royal Rumble Favorites

Roxanne Perez

Since making her debut on the main roster, Roxanne Perez has stolen the show as one of the most intriguing parts of The Judgment Day.

In addition to winning the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship, her character has become an integral part of Raw. At just 23 years old, a Rumble win would make The Prodigy a bona fide star of the future.

Liv Morgan

After a devastating shoulder injury forced her out of action, Liv Morgan's triumphant return could come at the Royal Rumble, where throwing Perez over the top rope for the win would create an unforgettable moment.

Just as Morgan stole Dominik Mysterio and set the stage for the return of Rhea Ripley, she can use the same angle with The Prodigy for her own return.

Bianca Belair

One of the best all-around talents on WWE's main roster, Bianca Belair has been booked terribly over the last several months, but a win at the Royal Rumble would return her to the top of the card.

The women's division inside the ring and on the mic is better with The EST of WWE holding a title, and the Rumble should see the former champion back on top.

Jade Cargill

The women's Rumble match is one of the best ways for WWE Creative to put over a fresh face, and there is no Superstar on the roster who could use the moment more than Jade Cargill.

Although The Storm is still relatively inexperienced in the ring, she has a unique look that makes her immensely popular.

Booking Cargill to win the women's Rumble match and advance to WrestleMania 42 would be a career-altering moment and likely cement her spot as a top name in WWE.

For more wrestling talk, listen to Ring Rust Radio for all of the hot topics or catch the latest episode in the player above (some language NSFW).