The 2026 WWE Royal Rumble event was a spectacle that left fans and pundits alike with a mix of emotions. While Liv Morgan’s historic win over 29 other female superstars marked a milestone moment for women’s wrestling, it was not without its share of controversies and underwhelming matches. In this article, we’ll delve into the highs and lows of the event, exploring what worked and what didn’t.
3 Things We Hated About WWE Royal Rumble 2026
1. Underwhelming Main Event
The main event, a highly anticipated match between Roman Reigns and Big E, failed to live up to expectations. The match itself was marred by a series of botched spots, including a particularly awkward Spear attempt by Reigns. While the crowd was initially enthusiastic, their energy began to wane as the match dragged on, ultimately leading to a lackluster finish.
According to a WWE insider, the decision to pair Reigns with Big E was made with the intention of creating a compelling undercard match. However, sources close to the matter revealed that Big E’s injury issues may have contributed to the match’s disappointing outcome.
2. Misused Talent
The Royal Rumble event often serves as a platform for up-and-coming talent to make their mark. However, this year’s card saw several promising stars being underutilized. The likes of Rhea Ripley and Ricochet, who have been gaining momentum in recent months, were relegated to mid-card matches that failed to showcase their skills.
“It’s frustrating to see talented individuals like Rhea and Ricochet being stuck in these lackluster matches,” said a WWE source, who wished to remain anonymous. “They deserve better, and it’s disappointing to see their potential being wasted.”
3. Lopsided Booking
The Royal Rumble event has a history of featuring surprise entries and shocking eliminations. However, this year’s edition saw a clear bias towards certain superstars. The likes of Liv Morgan and Ronda Rousey, who had been building momentum in the weeks leading up to the event, were given a clear advantage over their opponents.
According to a WWE insider, the booking was influenced by a desire to create a more competitive and unpredictable atmosphere. However, some fans felt that the favoritism shown to certain superstars undermined the event’s integrity.
3 Things We Loved About WWE Royal Rumble 2026
1. Liv Morgan’s Historic Win
The highlight of the event undoubtedly belonged to Liv Morgan, who became the first woman to win the Royal Rumble match in 2026. Morgan’s Cinderella story, which saw her overcome a series of setbacks and doubters to achieve her goal, resonated with fans worldwide.
Her victory was met with a mixture of cheers and tears, as she celebrated her historic win with her fellow competitors. In an emotional post-match interview, Morgan credited her team and family for their unwavering support, saying, “This moment is not just about me – it’s about every single woman who has ever doubted themselves, every single woman who has ever been told they’re not good enough.”
2. Underrated Performances
While the main event may have been a letdown, there were several underrated performances that flew under the radar. The likes of Naomi and Shayna Baszler delivered standout matches, showcasing their technical skills and in-ring chemistry.
According to a WWE insider, these performances were a testament to the depth and talent within the women’s division. “We have a rich talent pool, and it’s exciting to see individuals like Naomi and Shayna stepping up and delivering high-quality matches,” said the source.
3. Roman Reigns’ Redemption
Roman Reigns, who had been struggling to find his footing in recent months, finally rediscovered his mojo in the main event. Despite the match’s underwhelming finish, Reigns’ performance was a testament to his enduring talent and resilience.
“Roman Reigns is a true champion, and he proved it tonight,” said a WWE source, who wished to remain anonymous. “He may not have won the match, but he won the hearts of the fans once again.”
In conclusion, the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble event was a mixed bag of surprises and disappointments. While it had its share of controversies and underwhelming matches, it also showcased the raw talent and resilience of its competitors. As the WWE continues to evolve and grow, it’s essential to remember the lessons learned from this event and strive to create a more balanced and unpredictable product for fans to enjoy.