The “Road to WrestleMania 42” officially begins tonight as WWE makes history with Royal Rumble 2026. For the first time in the event’s 39-year history, the traditional Royal Rumble is being held outside of North America. Emanating from the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this year’s Rumble promises a unique atmosphere and high-stakes drama as part of the Riyadh Season festival.
Whether you are watching from New York, London, or New Delhi, here is everything you need to know about tonight’s blockbuster Premium Live Event (PLE).
Quick Facts: WWE Royal Rumble 2026
- Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
- Location: Riyadh Season Stadium (KAFD), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Theme Song: “Heavy Is the Crown” by Linkin Park
- The Stakes: Winners of the Men’s and Women’s Rumble matches earn a World Championship match at WrestleMania 42 in Las Vegas this April.
Global Start Times
Due to the event being held in Saudi Arabia, fans in the United States will enjoy a rare afternoon start time.
| Country / Region | Start Time (Main Card) | Date |
| United States (ET) | 2:00 PM ET | Jan 31 |
| United States (PT) | 11:00 AM PT | Jan 31 |
| United Kingdom | 7:00 PM GMT | Jan 31 |
| Saudi Arabia (Local) | 10:00 PM AST | Jan 31 |
| India | 12:30 AM IST | Feb 1 (Sun) |
| Australia (Sydney) | 6:00 AM AEDT | Feb 1 (Sun) |
The Countdown to Royal Rumble pre-show begins two hours before the main card (12:00 PM ET).
How to Watch: TV and Streaming
WWE has shifted its broadcast strategy for 2026, so make sure your subscriptions are updated:
- United States: Exclusively on the ESPN App (ESPN Unlimited plan).
- International (UK, India, Australia, etc.): Stream live on Netflix.
- Saudi Arabia: Local broadcast via Shahid and MBC.
The Official Match Card
1. Men’s Royal Rumble Match
30 Superstars compete in an over-the-top-rope battle royal.
- Confirmed Entrants: Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Gunther, Jacob Fatu, Bron Breakker, Brock Lesnar, Logan Paul, and NXT’s Oba Femi.
- Rumors: Whispers of a Chris Jericho return are reaching a fever pitch as his AEW contract reportedly expired this month.
2. Women’s Royal Rumble Match
30 Women Superstars battle for a spot at WrestleMania.
- Confirmed Entrants: Rhea Ripley, Liv Morgan, Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair (returning from injury), and Charlotte Flair.
3. Undisputed WWE Championship Match
Drew McIntyre (c) vs. Sami Zayn
McIntyre looks to secure his first televised title defense in front of a live crowd against the ultimate underdog, Sami Zayn, who has become a massive fan favorite in the Middle East.
4. Career-Threatening Match
AJ Styles vs. Gunther
The stakes couldn’t be higher: If AJ Styles loses, he will be forced to retire from professional wrestling. After Gunther retired John Cena and Goldberg, Styles is fighting for his legacy.
Storify News Analysis
With a DA 71 focus on global trends, Storify News notes that this event marks a massive pivot in WWE’s global business model. By moving a “Big Five” event like the Royal Rumble to Riyadh, WWE is solidifying its 10-year partnership with Saudi Vision 2030. Expect a “WrestleMania-level” production with potential shockers designed to trend worldwide.
Disclaimer: Match card and start times are subject to change by WWE. All information is current as of Jan 31, 2026.
