As the clock ticks down to the start of the 2026 Royal Rumble, the official run of show has been revealed. WWE has finalized the match order for today’s premium live event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, structuring the card to maximize energy from start to finish. With four high-profile matches on the docket, the placement of each bout tells a story about how the company views the flow of the evening.
Women’s Rumble Kicks It Off; Men’s Rumble Closes The Show
According to the planned order, the event will open with a bang. The Women’s Royal Rumble Match is scheduled to go on first, likely to get the live crowd at the King Abdullah Financial District hot immediately. With stars like Rhea Ripley, Iyo Sky, and Charlotte Flair confirmed, and surprises expected, this placement ensures the energy starts at a fever pitch.
Following the opener, the emotional intensity will shift gears. AJ Styles vs. Gunther is slated for the second spot. This placement allows the gravity of the “Career Threatening Match” to settle in before the championship bouts. If Styles loses, his retirement will happen early in the night, setting a somber or shocking tone for the remainder of the show.
The penultimate match of the night—often referred to as the “co-main event”—will be the Undisputed WWE Championship match between Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn. This title fight serves as the bridge to the finale. Finally, closing out the historic event will be the Men’s Royal Rumble Match. With Roman Reigns returning and major implications for WrestleMania 42, placing the men’s 30-man war in the main event slot solidifies it as the marquee attraction of the weekend.
Full Planned Match Order:
- Women’s Royal Rumble Match
- AJ Styles vs. Gunther (Career Threatening Match)
- Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn (Undisputed WWE Championship)
- Men’s Royal Rumble Match
Make sure to follow us on social media by liking us on Facebook at WrestleStarz and subscribing to us on YouTube at WrestleStar YouTube.
About the Author
