The WWE Royal Rumble is one of the most anticipated events of the year, known for its surprise entrants and legendary returns. As speculation builds for the 2026 edition—set to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—rumors are swirling about who could make a surprise appearance. Among the names generating buzz is former two-time WWE Women’s Champion Jazz, who has publicly expressed interest in returning to the squared circle for the iconic match.
Jazz’s Career and Legacy
Jazz, whose real name is Jamie Nicole Szantyr, is a trailblazer in women’s wrestling. She first gained prominence in WWE during the early 2000s, where she captured the Women’s Championship twice and became known for her in-ring prowess and charismatic personality. After her WWE tenure, Jazz continued to compete in various promotions, including TNA, where she further cemented her legacy as one of the most influential women in the industry.
Now, with the 2026 Royal Rumble on the horizon, Jazz has opened up about the possibility of making a comeback. In a recent interview with Ring The Belle, she shared her thoughts on a potential return, emphasizing that while she’s open to the idea, there’s one crucial factor: advanced notice.
The Importance of Preparation
Jazz explained that returning to the ring after a long absence requires more than just a desire to compete—it demands proper preparation. “If WWE were to reach out and say, ‘Hey, we want you to be in the Royal Rumble,’ I’d need some time to get ready,” she said. “I’m not just going to jump in without training. I want to make sure I’m in the best shape possible and that I can deliver a performance that fans will remember.”
This sentiment is echoed by many veterans who have made surprise returns to WWE events. The physical demands of a Royal Rumble match, which can last for over an hour and involve multiple competitors, are no small feat, especially for someone who hasn’t been active in the ring for some time.
The Royal Rumble’s Tradition of Surprises
The Royal Rumble is famous for its surprise entrants, with legends like Shawn Michaels, Edge, and The Rock making memorable returns over the years. However, the 2026 event may see a shift in this tradition. According to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer Live, WWE is struggling with the logistics of sneaking surprise participants into Saudi Arabia without tipping off fans. “The Royal Rumble is in Saudi Arabia, and normally they do surprises for the Rumble,” Alvarez revealed. “I was given the impression that what they’re working with right now is the idea that there probably won’t be any Royal Rumble surprises because they’re going to Saudi. It’s going to be extremely difficult to hide people on flights, etc.”
Instead, WWE may be shifting their strategy, with any surprises debuting on shows in Montreal the week prior, including SmackDown and Saturday Night’s Main Event on January 24. “So, they’re doing the Saturday Night’s Main Event and the SmackDown the week prior in Montreal. The idea is that if there’s a good chance there are any Royal Rumble surprises, they will debut on those shows as surprises, and then we’ll know going into the Royal Rumble,” Alvarez explained.
Jazz’s Potential Impact
If Jazz were to make a surprise appearance, it would undoubtedly be a major moment for fans of the women’s division. Her return would not only honor her legacy but also inspire a new generation of wrestlers. “Jazz was a pioneer in women’s wrestling, and her return would be a huge deal,” said a WWE insider. “She’s someone who paved the way for so many of the women we see today, and her presence in the Royal Rumble would be a nod to the history of the division.”
Jazz’s potential return also aligns with WWE’s recent efforts to celebrate the legacy of its past stars. With the company increasingly recognizing the contributions of women who helped shape the industry, a Jazz appearance would fit perfectly into this narrative.
The Road to WrestleMania 42
The winner of the 2026 Royal Rumble will earn a world championship match at WrestleMania 42, with the men able to choose between Raw’s World Heavyweight Championship and SmackDown’s Undisputed WWE Championship, while the women have the choice between Raw’s Women’s World Championship and SmackDown’s WWE Women’s Championship. For Jazz, the opportunity to compete for a title at WrestleMania would be the ultimate dream.
“WrestleMania is the biggest stage in the world,” Jazz said. “If I were to be in the Royal Rumble and win, it would be the culmination of everything I’ve worked for. But even if I don’t win, just being part of the match would be an honor.”
Conclusion
As the WWE Royal Rumble 2026 approaches, the anticipation for surprise entrants continues to build. While logistical challenges may limit the number of true surprises, the possibility of a Jazz return remains a tantalizing prospect. With her legacy and the respect she commands in the industry, Jazz’s appearance would be a memorable moment for fans and a fitting tribute to her contributions to women’s wrestling.
Whether or not Jazz ultimately makes it into the Royal Rumble, her openness to a return highlights the enduring appeal of the event and the lasting impact of its legends. As the road to WrestleMania 42 begins, all eyes will be on Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and the potential for history to be made once again.