• Why WWE’s Saudi Arabia Royal Rumble Will Be Different This Time
WWE is not planning to turn the Saudi Arabia-hosted Royal Rumble into a novelty attraction similar to the Greatest Royal Rumble in 2018, which featured an oversized field and numerous additional entrants.
Instead, the expectation is that WWE will deliver the standard Royal Rumble match that fans are accustomed to seeing each year.
While there may be interest from Saudi officials in featuring legends or special appearances, WrestleVotes Live on Fightful Select indicated that WWE appears intent on avoiding excessive additions that would dilute the match.
The belief is that the company wants the event to feel consistent with Royal Rumbles held every year, rather than being shaped to fit a one-off request.
As a result, the upcoming Royal Rumble is expected to maintain its usual structure and significance, with WWE prioritizing competitive integrity and continuity over spectacle-driven alterations.
• Update On Alberto Del Rio’s WWE Return Rumors
Alberto Del Rio is not expected to return to WWE, despite recent speculation suggesting otherwise.
On WrestleVotes Live on Fightful Select, the situation surrounding Del Rio was addressed directly, with the belief being that there is no real momentum behind the idea of him reappearing on WWE television.
While there was some discussion about the possibility of limited agreements allowing his name or footage to be used for historical or archival purposes, there was no indication that such arrangements would extend to an in-ring or on-screen role.
No credible information has surfaced pointing to WWE having interest in bringing Del Rio back in any capacity.
• WWE Is Going All Out For Royal Rumble 2026
WWE is no longer just visiting Saudi Arabia; they are reshaping the landscape. For the upcoming Royal Rumble on January 31, the company has abandoned the idea of using an existing venue. Instead, they have built their own stadium from the ground up in Riyadh to host the event.
This massive construction project reflects the unprecedented scale of the show. According to PWInsider, the backstage talk at this week’s RAW was centered on one thing: the production for this Rumble is officially being treated as a WrestleMania-level event.
While the Royal Rumble has always been a major stop on the calendar, the level of financial and creative investment for this year’s show is turning it into a global showcase that rivals the biggest night in wrestling history.
The decision to build a custom stadium from scratch shows how far the partnership with Saudi Arabia has evolved. By creating a bespoke environment, WWE is ensuring that the set, lighting, and fan experience are tuned to the highest possible standard.
Internally, the message is this isn’t just another international tour date – it’s a statement of power and the most elaborate production the company has ever attempted outside of North America.
