With the build-up to the Royal Rumble happening as we speak, it is time to look at some possible returns. Several people have been cleared to wrestle and could potentially participate.
There are also some veterans and celebs that could make their appearance. So, who made it to our “most-likely” list for the upcoming pay-per-view on January 26?
Women’s Royal Rumble Surprise Entries
There could be a number of surprise entries for the women’s Royal Rumble. After all, some women on the injured list could make their return here. There is also a possibility of veterans.
Nia Jax
Nia Jax has always played a bigger role during the women’s Royal Rumble and even the men’s Rumble. She has been on the injured list for a little while, but rumors abound that she could be ready to return at the next pay-per-view. We estimate she could make her appearance near the end.
Ruby Riott
Like Nia Jax, Ruby has been on the injured list. Her faction “The Riott Squad” has been disbanded, but Ruby is not forgotten. It is likely she makes her return at the women’s rumble.
AJ Lee
Even though AJ Lee had to retire because of persistent injuries, the return of her husband CM Punk to the WWE could mean a surprise appearance. Lee is a former Diva’s champion, and she also has one of my favorite submissions of all time, the Black Widow.
Lita
It wouldn’t really feel like a women’s Royal Rumble without Lita. She made an appearance in the previous rumble and the crowd certainly loved it. I would love to see Lita take a more active role at the rumble and maybe for a little while afterwards. She doesn’t need to do a complete run, but I don’t think the last tale has been told when it comes to Lita.
Trish Stratus
Over the past couple of years, Trish has made a couple of appearances. She could make another at the rumble, although like Lita, it is unlikely that she will take a win. However, if the WWE are planning something a little lengthier for Trish, then it could happen.
Ronda Rousey
If Ronda Rousey hasn’t started her family yet by the time the rumble hits, she could be a big name to add to the lineup. She still has some unfinished business in the WWE, especially with Becky Lynch. So, she could appear on number 30 during the women’s rumble.
Shayna Baszler
Considering the success she had at Survivor Series, Baszler could be another entry during the Royal Rumble. She could even win the whole thing if the company is thinking about moving Shayna up.
Rhea Ripley
Rhea Ripley conquered at Survivor Series and is loved no matter which part of the WWE she is working for. She would be a strong female competitor for the women’s rumble and is my personal pick to take the win in 2020. Of course, this is subject to change. If Ronda returns at the Rumble, she might take the win and go on to fight Becky at WrestleMania.
The Men’s Royal Rumble
The women’s Royal Rumble may have a couple of surprises, but the same applies to the men’s rumble. Here are some of our top picks for the upcoming pay-per-view.
CM Punk
If anyone should be on number 30, it would have to be CM Punk. Whether it is wishful thinking or something that could genuinely happen, I can’t really say. However, if this would happen, I can guarantee this would be the Royal Rumble of the decade. If he enters, I predict he will take the gold.
Matt Riddle
Since Matt Riddle enjoyed quite the fan support during his appearance at Survivor Series, it is evident that the company will use him at the rumble. We expect that he will come out relatively early in the rumble, somewhere between number 8 and 15.
WALTER
Fans were not impressed when Walter was eliminated prematurely from Survivor Series. In fact, it lead to a rather lewd chant upon his elimination, which sent some clear signals to WWE management.
As WALTER is quite beloved among the WWE universe, he is a great pick for the rumble. As his nickname is the Ring General, the rumble could be his chance for redemption. He was eliminated way too early at Survivor Series, so let’s hope he gets a better opportunity at the rumble.
Booker T
While this may be an unusual choice for many, it might not be that far fetched. Just before TLC, The Revival came out to insult Booker T and his Hall of Fame status. Maybe Booker T participates in the rumble and takes on both members of The Revival to teach them a lesson? Also, the rumble is taking place in his hometown of Houston. It’s the perfect timing for a temporary comeback.
Velveteen Dream
The audacious and outstanding wrestler could make an appearance at the men’s rumble. There is a bright future ahead of him as well, especially in single’s competition. If Vince likes Velveteen Dream, then the rumble could be the time for his call up to the main roster.
Adam Cole
Like Rhea Ripley, Adam Cole drew some serious attention at Survivor Series. It’s the kind of attention we are sure Vince liked, so an entry for Adam Cole (Bay Bay) at the rumble makes total sense. If he enters, I do not think he will be eliminated quickly or easily.
Keith Lee
Another man who left a massive impression at Survivor Series is Keith Lee. It is likely that he will be one of the entrants during the rumble and that he will survive eliminations for some time. He could be the dark horse of this pay-per-view, too. As he currently doesn’t have anything really keeping him in NXT, he could even win and take on a major role on the main roster. This would be a very interesting development indeed.
A More Exciting Royal Rumble?
The Royal Rumble has not been terribly exciting since the Attitude Era, but I’m hoping that will change this year. There are many directions to take and try, so I anxiously await what will happen.
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