WWE Royal Rumble 2026: AJ Styles Bids Farewell
WWE Royal Rumble 2026 is set to unfold on January 31, 2026, at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event will commence with the free Countdown Show at 12 PM ET, leading into the main event at 2 PM ET. Fans around the world can watch on the ESPN App in the U.S. and on Netflix internationally.
AJ Styles Prepares for His Farewell Match
The spotlight shines on AJ Styles as he participates in what may be his final match in WWE. Styles, known as “The Phenomenal One,” is facing GUNTHER in a high-stakes bout where his career is on the line. This encounter follows a heated exchange sparked by GUNTHER’s disrespectful treatment of legends like John Cena.
Styles challenged GUNTHER after an intense battle on the January 12 episode of Raw. Though Styles seemed to have the upper hand, GUNTHER escaped a critical hold and claimed victory. Following this, Styles demanded a rematch at Royal Rumble, and GUNTHER accepted under the condition that Styles would put his career on the line. This dramatic turn has set the stage for AJ Styles’ potential retirement match.
Recent Trends in WWE
AJ Styles aims to make a statement in Saudi Arabia, but he faces overwhelming odds. GUNTHER has a reputation for ending the careers of notable wrestlers. The last time Styles secured a victory over a top star was in 2024. This match will challenge Styles’ ability to triumph against GUNTHER, known as one of the most dominant heels in the WWE.
Title Matches and Rumble Events
- Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn for the WWE Championship: This marks McIntyre’s first championship defense since capturing the title earlier this month. Zayn earned his shot after winning a Fatal 4-Way match. Notably, Zayn has never won the championship or beaten McIntyre in their past encounters.
- Men’s Royal Rumble Match: The annual 30-man battle features confirmed participants like Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, and Brock Lesnar. The winner will earn a title shot at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas.
- Women’s Royal Rumble Match: Notable entrants include Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair, and Becky Lynch. This match also has 13 available spots for surprise participants.
Event Expectations
Speculation surrounds the outcomes of these matches. Will AJ Styles start his farewell tour on a high note, or will GUNTHER continue his reign as a formidable career-ender? Meanwhile, Sami Zayn aims for his breakthrough championship win, while the Royal Rumble matches promise excitement and unpredictability.
WWE Royal Rumble 2026 holds the potential to shape the future of its superstars. Fans around the world are eager to witness these pivotal moments unfold in Riyadh. Don’t miss the action as the drama and suspense reach new heights in this classic wrestling event.
