WWE Royal Rumble 2026 Predictions: Gunther and Liv Morgan Favored to Win

Full WWE Royal Rumble 2026 predictions including Men’s and Women’s Royal Rumble winners, Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn, and Gunther vs. AJ Styles in a career-threatening match.
The road to WrestleMania 42 begins with the WWE Royal Rumble 2026, and this year’s Premium Live Event is stacked with former world champions, returning superstars, and career-defining stakes. From the chaotic over-the-top-rope battles to high-profile title matches, here are the biggest predictions heading into one of WWE’s most unpredictable nights.

Men’s Royal Rumble Match Prediction

The Men’s Royal Rumble field already features an incredible lineup of former champions and main-event stars. Confirmed entrants include Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, Gunther, Jey Uso, Brock Lesnar, and Rey Mysterio — competitors with a combined history of Royal Rumble wins and WrestleMania main events.
Rhodes has won two of the last three Rumbles, while Reigns remains a perennial favorite thanks to his dominant track record. Brock Lesnar and Jey Uso also bring championship pedigree and elimination power.
However, the most intriguing name in the match is Gunther. With a high-stakes bout against AJ Styles also scheduled for the night, Gunther pulling double duty could play into a long-term WrestleMania storyline. If Styles survives their earlier match, a Rumble victory for Gunther could set up a massive rematch on the grandest stage.

Men’s Royal Rumble Final Six Prediction:

• Sami Zayn
• Bron Breakker
• Roman Reigns
• Gunther
• Bronson Reed
• Oba Femi
Final Two: Gunther vs. Roman Reigns
Winner: Gunther

Women’s Royal Rumble Match Prediction

The Women’s Royal Rumble 2026 could be defined by surprise returns and long-awaited singles pushes. Speculation surrounds possible appearances by Bianca Belair, Tiffany Stratton, and even WWE legends.
Still, the focus may shift to current stars ready to reclaim the spotlight. Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan have both been active in the tag division, but the Rumble offers a clear path back into the Women’s Championship picture.
A final showdown between Ripley and Morgan would provide both drama and history, but Morgan’s underdog momentum could carry her to a career-defining victory and a WrestleMania title opportunity.

Women’s Royal Rumble Final Six Prediction:

• Rhea Ripley
• IYO SKY
• Bianca Belair
• Lash Legend
• Liv Morgan
• Roxanne Perez
Final Two: Rhea Ripley vs. Liv Morgan
Winner: Liv Morgan
Undisputed WWE Championship: Drew McIntyre (c) vs. Sami Zayn
Sami Zayn continues to thrive as WWE’s ultimate underdog, earning this championship opportunity through a grueling contender’s tournament. But standing in his way is Drew McIntyre, who has been on a dominant run and historically has had Zayn’s number in singles competition.
While Zayn’s resilience makes him dangerous, it seems unlikely WWE would end McIntyre’s title reign so soon after he captured the championship.
Prediction: Drew McIntyre retains the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Career-Threatening Match: Gunther vs. AJ Styles
This high-stakes clash could have major WrestleMania implications. Gunther has already built a reputation for ending legendary careers, but AJ Styles is in the middle of a farewell-style run and may have one more big chapter left.
A controversial prior finish between these two leaves room for redemption. Styles surviving here would extend his career and open the door for future title pursuits, possibly setting up a blockbuster rematch with Gunther later in the year.
Prediction: AJ Styles defeats Gunther to save his career.

Royal Rumble 2026 Outlook

With championship gold, career legacies, and WrestleMania main events on the line, the Royal Rumble 2026 promises shocking returns, emotional moments, and major storyline turns. If these predictions hold, Gunther and Liv Morgan could headline the road to WrestleMania — but in WWE, anything can happen once the countdown hits zero.