WWE’s Royal Rumble 2026, scheduled for January 31 at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is set to be a landmark event, as it will be the first traditional Royal Rumble to take place outside North America. However, according to reliable insider Bryan Alvarez, the event might also introduce a significant change that could disappoint many longtime fans.
Royal Rumble 2026: A Historic International Edition
The 39th annual Royal Rumble will be a pivotal moment in WWE history, continuing the company’s decade-long partnership with Saudi Arabia, supporting the Saudi Vision 2030 initiative. The event is expected to bring together marquee stars from both Raw and SmackDown in a unique setting far from the usual North American venues. This will be the 14th WWE PPV held in Saudi Arabia and the first of the “Big Five” events hosted there.
One notable aspect of this edition is that both the men’s and women’s Royal Rumble winners will have the option to challenge for either brand’s primary championship at WrestleMania 42. Men can choose between Raw’s World Heavyweight Championship and SmackDown’s Undisputed WWE Championship, while women will vie for either Raw’s Women’s World Championship or SmackDown’s WWE Women’s Championship[3][5].
The Major Change: Potential Rumble Format Adjustment
Despite the fanfare, the rumbling backstage chatter suggests WWE could alter the match format in a way that might not sit well with its core audience. Although WWE hasn’t officially confirmed specifics, Bryan Alvarez recently noted that discussions are underway to tweak the traditional match structure.
Sources close to WWE indicate that the company is contemplating reducing the number of participants or adjusting entry intervals, potentially altering the classic “1 entrant every 90 seconds to 2 minutes” format that has been a staple for years. The rationale, reportedly, includes pacing issues tied to the Saudi Arabian crowd and an effort to fit the event within a tighter broadcast window.
A WWE insider confided:
“WWE wants to keep the big spectacle feeling but is worried about the match dragging on. There’s a push for a faster, tighter show in Riyadh, but some creatives worry it might lose the edge that fans love about the Royal Rumble’s suspense.”
Such a change could affect the match’s iconic suspense-building, which thrives on unpredictability and endurance, elements that fans cherish most.
What Fans Can Expect Beyond the Format
While the format change debate continues, other exciting elements surrounding Royal Rumble 2026 are emerging. Speculation abounds about possible surprise entrants and star appearances, which have traditionally fueled buzz and dramatic moments during the Rumble.
Potential Surprise Entrants and Returnees
Royal Rumble events are often marked by surprise returns and unexpected entrants, which can galvanize crowds and shift story direction. Fans anticipate big names making comebacks or debuts in Riyadh, with names like Rey Mysterio rumored for a heartfelt return after recovering from injury[2].
There are also whispers about legends like The Rock making an impactful appearance, potentially stirring the pot and disrupting ongoing storylines. With many veteran wrestlers either semi-retired or rarely appearing, Royal Rumble 2026 could serve as a strategic platform for WWE to blend nostalgia with fresh talent[1].
High-Profile Storylines Heating Up Pre-Rumble
The coming months will also feature raw brand rivalry between Raw and SmackDown superstars. WWE’s recent schedule tweaks to SmackDown and Raw tapings in early January 2026 suggest a heavy buildup towards the Rumble at these shows[4][5]. Fresh storylines and potential heel turns (such as one rumored for Cody Rhodes) seem poised to heighten excitement.
Cody Rhodes himself is reportedly looking to make a major impact at the event, potentially joining the elite group of multiple-time Royal Rumble winners and igniting a dramatic character shift[1]. These narrative arcs will be vital to compensating for any backlash caused by the format change.
Backstage Sentiment and Fan Reaction
Backstage, opinions on the format tweak appear mixed. Some WWE officials believe adapting the match to fit a new international context is necessary for growth and global market appeal. However, veteran producers and performers are cautious, warning that the Royal Rumble’s legacy depends on preserving what makes it special.
A producer working behind the scenes told our source:
“It’s a balancing act. The match needs energy and momentum, but cutting elements for time could upset fans who grew up loving the long grind of the Rumble.”
Among the WWE Universe, online forums and social media have already seen emerging debates. Many loyal fans express concern over sacrificing tradition for broadcast convenience, fearing that the biggest annual Rumble match could lose its signature drama.
Looking Ahead: The Road to WrestleMania 42
Regardless of the changes, WWE’s Royal Rumble 2026 remains a cornerstone event on the wrestling calendar. Its results will set the stage for WrestleMania 42, ensuring the stakes remain sky-high.
With the added intrigue of location, brand championships on the line, and potential surprise stars, the event promises major spectacle and storyline developments. Still, the company will have to carefully balance innovation with tradition to satisfy both business objectives and fan expectations.
For now, fans around the world await official confirmation about the Rumble’s format and participants, bracing for what is sure to be a historic but possibly controversial edition of one of WWE’s greatest yearly events.