Dakota Kai is gearing up for one of the biggest matches of her career as she prepares to face Lyra Valkyria in the finals of the tournament to crown the inaugural WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion.
The highly anticipated bout is set to take place tonight on the January 13 episode of WWE RAW. Ahead of the historic contest, Kai took to X to reflect on her journey. She described her seven-and-a-half-year tenure in WWE and her lifelong dream of becoming a champion.
“I’ve been about WWE for 7 and a half years. This has been my dream for as long as I can remember, way back when I was practicing DDTs on my lil bro in the lounge (don’t try this at home, lol).
With each opportunity to win a singles championship over the years, I’ve given my all every time… even if I fell short, every time. I don’t want to say ‘failure isn’t an option’ because failure has been a part of my story and I’ve learned from it. I hope to make you all proud.”
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship
In a separate recent interview with The Ringer Wrestling Show, Kai opened up about her excitement for the championship match. Seven years into her WWE run, the “It feels like it’s been a long time coming,” she said.
“I’ve been in the company for about seven years now, and while I’ve had opportunities, it’s almost been like close but no cigar. So for me, next week is a big opportunity to show what I can do… and hopefully finish off that fairytale ending.”
Both Kai and Valkyria have fought their way through the tournament, making this clash one to watch. Fans will be tuning in to see whether Kai can finally achieve her dream or if Valkyria will make her own mark in history as the first-ever WWE Women’s Intercontinental Champion.
According to her counsel and a motion filed on Monday in federal district court in Connecticut, one of the non-disclosure agreements Vince McMahon was fined for last week was signed by Janel Grant. This information was part of a motion for status conference that was filed on Monday by Grant’s attorneys.
According to a press release last week from the Securities Exchange Commission, McMahon was fined $400,000 and paid over a million in restitution to World Wrestling Entertainment for not properly disclosing two NDAs he had signed. One was an NDA in 2022, which counsel for Grant said was the NDA she signed at the time. The other NDA McMahon was fined for was with a former WWE contractor/wrestler.
Grant second status conference filing asked the court for a schedule due to the following developments:
The new judge in the case
No order entered on the docket officially ending the 6-month stay that was requested by federal prosecutors last year
Motions by defendants requesting arbitration per the NDA agreement.
The SEC ruling on McMahon’s NDA with Grant.
Attorneys for Grant planned to amend her complaint by Jan. 15, according to the first motion filed two weeks ago, but asked the court for a schedule in order to consider the SEC fines and charges against McMahon and other developments.
“It is clear that the Court’s guidance is needed to reach consensus on a schedule to move this litigation forward,” the motion said. “Plaintiff respectfully requests the Court schedule a status conference at its earliest convenience, and enter an order clarifying that no further submissions are due until the Court instructs otherwise.”
In a statement to SEScoops, Grant attorney Ann Callis said the SEC charges against McMahon prove the NDA violated the law.
“In light of the SEC’s charges proving that the NDA Vince McMahon coerced Ms. Grant into signing violates the law, Ms. Grant has renewed her request for an updated scheduling conference to ensure these new developments are reflected in her complaint and establish a clear schedule to move her case forward,” Callis said. “Ms. Grant deserves the opportunity to have her day in court and hold her abusers accountable.”
The public information officer for the Southern District of New York Attorneys office wouldn’t give comment on Monday on the status of the federal criminal investigation into McMahon. A representative for Grant on Monday said her counsel was told in December by federal investigators that the criminal probe into McMahon is still ongoing.
Pentagon Jr., one of the most electrifying wrestlers in the industry, has launched a brand-new merchandise line on WWE Shop just hours ahead of his highly anticipated television debut on WWE Raw.
Fans can showcase their “Cero Miedo” spirit with exclusive WWE-licensed gear, including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and a replica mask inspired by Pentagon Jr.’s iconic look. A product description for one of the shirts reads:
“Cero Miedo! For Penta, it’s not just a phrase. He has no fear of anyone or anything and is driven to be as aggressive as possible to reach his goals. Show that you also live life without fear by grabbing this Penta Logo T-Shirt. The mysterious logo printed across the chest leaves no doubt you’re eager to see the WWE’s newest dark luchador dive upon and dominate those daring to stand in his path.”
It may not seem like much, but the merchandise listings provide a fair amount of new information regarding how he’ll be presented in WWE:
His ring name will be Penta
He’ll continue using his “Cero Miedo!” catchphrase
Tyson Fury, the renowned heavyweight boxer famously known as “The Gypsy King,” has officially announced his retirement from professional boxing. In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Fury delivered a concise but emotional farewell message to his fans:
“I’m going to make this short and sweet. I’d like to announce my retirement from boxing. It’s been a blast. I’ve loved every single minute of it. I’m going to end with this – Dick Turpin wore a mask. God bless everybody, see you on the other side.”
This announcement marks another milestone in a career defined by extraordinary highs and unexpected twists. Fury had previously retired in 2022 following a decisive victory over Dillian Whyte but later returned to the ring to defeat Derek Chisora later that year.
At 36, Fury leaves the sport following two consecutive losses to Oleksandr Usyk. If this retirement is final, Fury concludes his illustrious career with a record of 34 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw. Among his many accomplishments are multiple heavyweight championships, including the WBC heavyweight title and The Ring magazine’s heavyweight title.
Tyson Fury’s WWE Journey
Beyond his boxing achievements, Tyson Fury has made a significant impact in professional wrestling through his collaborations with WWE. He debuted with the promotion in October 2019 on an episode of SmackDown, where he confronted Braun Strowman. This encounter culminated in a high-profile match at the Crown Jewel event in Saudi Arabia later that month, which Fury won. Since then, his WWE appearances have been sporadic yet memorable.
In 2022, Fury made a surprise appearance at the Clash at the Castle event and went toe-to-toe with none other than Roman Reigns.
Despite ongoing speculation about potential appearances at major WWE events like the Royal Rumble or WrestleMania, logistical challenges—such as legal issues impacting his ability to travel to the United States—have reportedly complicated these plans.
Nonetheless, Fury has expressed strong enthusiasm for future collaborations with WWE, citing his lifelong passion for professional wrestling. As he steps away from boxing, fans are eager to see whether Fury might dedicate more time to WWE, potentially trading his boxing gloves for wrestling boots.
WWE Raw’s new era on Netflix will continue tonight with a stacked show set to take place inside the SAP Center in San Jose, California. The show comes off the heels of last week’s historic launch on the streaming juggernaut.
Tonight’s show will see the red brand continue on its new era, as well as build towards the 2025 Royal Rumble. The first PLE of the year will take place in Indianapolis, Indiana, with John Cena, Roman Reigns, and CM Punk all confirmed for the Men’s Rumble match.
WWE Raw Preview (12/30/2024)
Tonight’s show will be star-studded, with a mix of high-profile matches and massive appearances confirmed.
WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Dakota Kai vs. Lyra Valkyria
In addition to these huge matches, CM Punk will appear, fresh off his victory over Seth Rollins at last week’s Raw. World Heavyweight Champion GUNTHER and new Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley have also been confirmed for the show.
Don’t miss the historic final broadcast of WWE Raw on the USA Network tonight at 8/7c, live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California.
The Royal Rumble has been a WWE staple since 1988, with its unique format of timed entries and over-the-top-rope eliminations captivating fans. One of the most revered achievements in these matches is being the “Iron Man” – the competitor who lasts the longest in a single Rumble. This article explores every Iron Man of the Royal Rumble from its inception to 2024.
The Iron Man of a Royal Rumble is the wrestler who spends the longest time in the ring during a match. Often, this accolade showcases WWE’s trust in showcasing the wrestler’s ability and stamina to carry the match for the longest amount of time.
Iron Men of the Royal Rumble (1988-2024)
Below is a breakdown of every Iron Man from each Royal Rumble, highlighting their time in the ring.
1988-1999: The Early Years
1988: Bret Hart – 25:45
1989: Mr. Perfect – 27:56
1990: Ted DiBiase – 44:53
1991: Rick Martel – 52:30
1992: Ric Flair – 59:32 (Won the Rumble)
1993: Bob Backlund – 1:01:15
1994: Bam Bam Bigelow – 30:14
1995: Shawn Michaels – 38:43 (Won the Rumble)
1996: Hunter Hearst Helmsley – 48:05
1997: Steve Austin – 45:04 (Won the Rumble)
1998: The Rock – 51:31
1999: Mr. McMahon – 56:39 (Won the Rumble)
2000-2009: Evolution of the Match
2000: Test – 26:48
2001: Kane – 53:44
2002: Steve Austin – 26:47
2003: Chris Jericho – 38:59
2004: Chris Benoit – 1:01:33 (Won the Rumble)
2005: Chris Benoit – 47:32
2006: Rey Mysterio – 1:02:12 (Won the Rumble)
2007: Edge – 44:05
2008: Batista – 37:53
2009: Triple H – 49:57
2010-2019: Modern Legends
2010: John Cena – 22:12
2011: CM Punk – 35:22
2012: The Miz – 45:39
2013: Dolph Ziggler – 49:47
2014: CM Punk – 49:13
2015: Bray Wyatt – 46:50
2016: Roman Reigns – 59:48
2017: Chris Jericho – 1:00:13
2018: Finn Balor – 57:38
2019: Seth Rollins – 43:00
2020-2024: The Present Era
2020: Drew McIntyre – 34:11
2021: Edge – 58:58 (Won the Rumble)
2022: AJ Styles – 29:17
2023: Gunther – 1:11:40
2024: Jey Uso – 50:56
What Makes the Iron Man Role Significant?
While winning the Royal Rumble is the ultimate goal, being an Iron Man demonstrates unparalleled endurance and often propels wrestlers to stardom. Legends like Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, and Rey Mysterio have used their Iron Man performances to solidify their legacies.
The WWE Royal Rumble 2025, set to take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN on February 2nd, is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated wrestling events in the company’s recent history. With ticket sales soaring and the surprise announcement of John Cena’s participation, fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an unforgettable night of action.
Ticket Sales Surge Following John Cena’s Announcement
January 6, 2025, during the Netflix premiere of WWE RAW, John Cena officially declared himself for the 2025 men’s Royal Rumble match. This announcement has had a significant impact on ticket sales, proving that the 16-time world champion still has the power to draw crowds.
According to WrestleTix, a reputable source for wrestling event ticket information, 3,112 tickets were distributed in the week following Cena’s announcement, bringing the total to 53,369 tickets sold. This surge in sales is a testament to Cena’s enduring popularity and star power.
John Cena is once again proving why he's the top draw in the business at the box office. Since I began tracking major wrestling shows in 2021, his return for the 'Summer of Cena' added 2-3K tickets (at minimum) to every show he appeared on. Very few can replicate that today—The…
John Cena’s Quest for a Record-Breaking 17th World Title
Cena’s participation in the Royal Rumble is not just about making an appearance; it’s part of his larger goal to secure a record-breaking 17th world championship. The announcement came as part of Cena’s retirement tour, adding an extra layer of emotion and significance to his Royal Rumble bid.
At 47 years old, Cena acknowledged the challenges he faces, stating, “I just don’t know what my best at 48 looks like.” However, his determination to win the Royal Rumble and potentially headline WrestleMania 41 has sparked a frenzy among fans, many of whom are eager to see the wrestling icon make history.
Star-Studded Royal Rumble 2025 Lineup
While Cena’s participation has garnered significant attention, the 2025 Royal Rumble is set to feature a roster that rivals some of the most memorable events in WWE history. Fans can expect to see established stars like CM Punk and Roman Reigns, alongside rising talents such as Jey Uso, Gunther, Sami Zayn, and Drew McIntyre.
The Impact of John Cena on WWE Events
John Cena’s ability to boost ticket sales is not a new phenomenon. WrestleTix noted that since 2021, Cena’s appearances have consistently added 2,000 to 3,000 ticket sales to every show he’s been part of. This level of impact is unmatched by most current WWE superstars, with only a few names like The Rock, CM Punk, and Roman Reigns coming close to Cena’s drawing power.
Jeff Hardy has opened up about the dark place he found himself in following his 2022 DUI arrest, an incident that left the popular wrestler feeling hopeless. Speaking on The Wrestle Spot podcast, Hardy reflected on his struggles and the toll they took on his mental health.
“I came close to ending it all in the summer of 2022, which is in public, and people are aware of my issues throughout the years with drugs and alcohol.”
Hardy was arrested in June 2022, in Volusia County, Florida, facing charges of driving with a suspended license and felony DUI. Following the arrest, it was revealed that Hardy had a blood alcohol level of 0.291—significantly above Florida’s legal limit of 0.08. AEW President Tony Khan issued a press release announcing Hardy’s suspension without pay, stating that his return to AEW would be contingent on completing rehab and demonstrating his commitment to sobriety.
The arrest sparked significant backlash from fans, as it was the latest in a string of DUIs for the former WWE World Champion. Coming just months into his AEW tenure, many believed Hardy had exhausted the numerous second chances he had been afforded. In February 2023, Hardy received a 38-day jail sentence (which he had already served), was required to complete court-mandated DUI education and community service, and faced a 10-year suspension of his driver’s license.
Hardy thankfully got the help he needed and has been able to maintain his sobriety since. Today, fans can find the Charismatic Enigma in TNA Wrestling, where he and Matt hold the World Tag Team Championships.
In December 2024, WWE brought back its iconic Saturday Night’s Main Event show, giving fans a burst of nostalgia while fitting with the promotion’s sleek modern-day presentation. A second show is scheduled for later this month in San Antonio, Texas and now two more dates have been confirmed. Peacock has updated its WWE Premium Live Events Schedule to reveal two new episodes of Saturday Night’s Main Event on the following dates:
May 24, 2025
July 12, 2025
Interestingly, both of these dates may conflict with two of AEW’s biggest shows of the year.
May 24, 2025 takes place over Memorial Day weekend. While AEW hasn’t announced a show on this date as of press time, the holiday weekend has played host to AEW Double or Nothing since the company’s launch in 2019.
The July 12, 2025 episode of SNME will go head-to-head with AEW All Out: Texas, scheduled to be AEW’s largest event in the United States to date.
As Tony Khan looks ahead and plans out the next few months of storylines, he now has extra motivation to deliver the best possible product to minimize damage to AEW PPV buys amid stiff competition from WWE PLE airing on broadcast television in the United States.
Thunder Rosa’s AEW Women’s World Championship was a long-time coming for her, but took the 38-year-old on an emotional rollercoaster full of highs and lows. In a conversation with Tim Rivera, Thunder Rosa reflected onher 2022 championship victory. Though she felt unprepared to take on the role of AEW’s top woman, Rose appreciated the looks of recognition she received at the time.
“I don’t think mentally I was ready for it… The good was, like, you create history, you get a bigger platform, and you’re at another level now. People see you with different eyes, they see you as the s***.”
Unfortunately for Rosa, her title reign also shared an uglier side to wrestling, including those she had considered friends betraying her trust.
“It’s heartbreaking when friends turn on you, or when people you thought you could trust prove you can’t. You have to stay strong through it all.”
Thunder Rosa won the gold from Britt Baker in March 2022 in a steel cage match at the St. Patrick’s Day Slam edition of Dynamite. In August, she suffered a back injury and would relinqush the title in November of that same year.
Rosa stopped short of naming who betrayed her trust, but the highs and lows of her title reign remain a pivotal chapter of her AEW career. Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on Thunder Rosa and see whether she holds the title ever again.
The Rock and Cody Rhodes’ on-screen beef is seemingly finished, resulting in footage filmed with the two potentially never seeing the light of day. On the historic WWE Raw debut on Netflix, The Rock praised Cody and the pair shared a hug inside Los Angeles’ Intuit Dome.
Rhodes and The Rock filmed a segment at the Moana 2 premiere that now may never be aired. According to Fightful, segment would’ve seen the two squash the beef between them, but that the segment on Raw covered the same topics as the Moana 2 segment. Sean Ross Sapp added that given what transpired on Raw, the segment filmed at the film premiere didn’t need to see the light of day.
While Raw marked the end of the Rock-Rhodes angle to many, the Final Boss’ appearance on WWE NXT teased that their feud may not be over just yet. Seemingly addressing the backlash to his year-long feud with Rhodes being abruptly ended, Rock teased that he was 20 steps ahead of everyone else, and encouraged fans to stay tuned.
With his issues with The Rock in the rear-view mirror (at least for the time being,) Rhodes attention turns to the Royal Rumble, where he’ll face Kevin Owens in a Ladder match. Stay tuned for the latest on both Cody Rhodes and The Rock, and whether the pair ever do battle in a WWE ring.
Drew McIntyre is determined to get the opportunity to work with John Cena.
Cena kicked off his farewell tour at the WWE RAW on Netflix premiere. There, he declared for the Royal Rumble match, as he made it clear that he wants to win the world title one last time.
Speaking on the Babyfaces Podcast, McIntyre was asked to comment on John Cena in the Royal Rumble match and targeting the world title. He wished Cena luck, before cutting right to the trash talk.
“All I care about is, I want time on that microphone with him, and I want that one-on-one match, and I’m gonna make it happen one way or another,” McIntyre said.
“Let’s just hope he doesn’t end up in the ring with me in the Rumble because the last person who got in my way in the Rumble last year and was aiming to main event WrestleMania was CM Punk, and I tore his tricep off the bone, so I’ll maybe ask Cena pick the muscle, pick the bone because I’m tearing it or breaking it.”
In a pivotal moment during the Eagles’ wild card playoff game against the Packers, rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell clinched the victory with a game-winning interception. To celebrate, Mitchell paid homage to WWE legend Triple H by attempting to perform the iconic Pedigree move on his teammate, Cooper DeJean.
Triple H responded to the moment on social media, congratulating Mitchell and the Eagles on their big win. Since he “didn’t get all of it,” the WWE icon humorously commented on the botched move, noting that there’s a reason WWE advises fans not to try its moves at home.
Both Mitchell and DeJean have been instrumental in the Eagles’ success this season. The two rookie defensive backs quickly moved beyond their rookie status, emerging as key contributors to Philadelphia’s top-ranked pass defense.
Throughout the season, Mitchell and DeJean have developed a strong bond, characterized by friendly competition and mutual support. Their on-field synergy and off-field camaraderie have been evident, making this celebratory moment a fitting highlight of their standout rookie campaigns.
WWE Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes recently made a surprise appearance in Dude Perfect’s latest YouTube video, which unveiled their new headquarters in Frisco, Texas. The video, titled “We Built The World’s Greatest Office,” showcases Dude Perfect’s impressive new 80,000-square-foot facility, complete with state-of-the-art video production capabilities.
In the video, Cody Rhodes is seen sitting in one of the Dude Perfect offices, explaining that it was their Cody who wanted “The American Nightmare” to be there. Rhodes fully embraced the fun atmosphere of Dude Perfect, shooting a Nerf gun and going down a huge slide.
Dude Perfect is an American sports and comedy group consisting of five friends: Tyler Toney, Cory and Coby Cotton, Garrett Hilbert, and Cody Jones. Founded in 2009, they gained fame through their YouTube channel, which features trick shots, stunts, and comedic videos. With over 60 million subscribers and billions of views, Dude Perfect has become a global phenomenon.
The guys are known for their family-friendly content, including trick shots, stereotypes, and battles. The group has expanded beyond YouTube, creating a TV show, going on live tours, and breaking multiple Guinness World Records.
Features of the New Dude Perfect Headquarters
Here’s a rundown of what’s inside ‘DPHQ3’ and a video providing a lengthy tour of the state-of the-art facility.
A full video production facility spanning 20,000 square feet
Additional 60,000 square feet for business operations
Former WWE star Melina Perez has been reported safe after concerns were raised about her whereabouts amid the devastating Los Angeles wildfires.
We’re relieved to share that Melina has made contact and is safe. We want to thank everyone for their concern, support, and outreach during this time. Your kindness and compassion means the world to us. ? #ThankYouhttps://t.co/GcsH0bDVQ8
— A Matter Of Pride Wrestling ???? (@LGBTQwrestling) January 12, 2025
A Matter of Pride Wrestling, which had initially expressed fears over the former pro wrestler’s safety, provided an update on social media, stating, “We’re relieved to share that Melina has made contact and is safe. We want to thank everyone for their concern, support, and outreach during this time. Your kindness and compassion means the world to us”.
The 45-year-old Los Angeles native had been unresponsive during the wildfire crisis, prompting worry from various wrestling organizations and fans.
Since the beginning of the new year, Omos has been making waves in Pro Wrestling NOAH in Japan. Teaming up with Jack Morris, he secured the GHC Tag Team Titles, solidifying his presence in the promotion. Following the latest Pro Wrestling NOAH event, Omos delivered a bold promo, declaring himself “the super mega-weight.”
“My dominance continues. I said it in the video, I did dominate. Every match, I have done nothing but dominate. Don’t forget that the moniker is now the super mega-weight, and there’s nothing no one can do about it.”
– Omos
#WWE star @TheGiantOmos: "My dominance continues! I said at the beginning of the year, I’m here to dominate and in every match I’ve done nothing but dominate. The moniker is now the super mega-weight & there’s nothing no one can do about it!”#noah_ghcpic.twitter.com/NKp2EXSxmy
Omos has made a significant impact in Japan over the past month, marking his debut in Pro Wrestling NOAH at their New Year 2025 event on January 1. The 7’4″ giant teamed up with Jack Morris to challenge for the GHC Tag Team Championship, facing the reigning champions Naomichi Marufuji and Takashi Sugiura.
In a surprising turn of events, Omos and Morris emerged victorious, capturing the GHC Tag Team Titles in Omos’ first match with the promotion This victory marked Omos’ first championship win outside of WWE and his first title since losing the RAW Tag Team Championship in 2021.
His appearance in NOAH is part of WWE’s ongoing collaboration with the Japanese promotion. Omos is set to remain active in Japan for Pro Wrestling NOAH until at least January 19, 2025.
WWE star Omos used a LAST RIDE to win his Korakuen Hall debut on Saturday!
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has undergone significant changes in its programming lineup over the past year. Several shows have been cancelled or suspended, reshaping the landscape of AEW’s content offerings. Let’s take a closer look at the cancelled AEW shows and the reasons behind these decisions.
AEW Dark: Elevation
AEW Dark: Elevation, which debuted on March 15, 2021, was the first show to face cancellation. The final episode aired on April 24, 2023, with Fite TV billing it as “The Special and final episode of Elevation.”
This YouTube series showcased up-and-coming talent and independent wrestlers, serving as a platform for emerging stars to gain exposure.
AEW Dark
Following the cancellation of Dark: Elevation, AEW Dark met a similar fate. Both Dark and Dark: Elevation were scrapped as part of AEW’s new deal with Warner Bros. Discovery.
This decision was made to ensure that all AEW wrestling content would air exclusively on WBD platforms, with the exception of Ring of Honor (ROH) programming.
Why was AEW Rampage cancelled?
In a surprising turn of events, AEW CEO Tony Khan announced on December 22, 2024, that AEW would be taping the last episode of Rampage “for the foreseeable future”.
The final episode was scheduled to air on December 27, 2024. Rampage, which debuted on August 13, 2021, was AEW’s second program to be featured on TNT.
The cancellation of Rampage is primarily due to the show not being included in AEW’s new TV deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, set to begin in January 2025. This new agreement, valued at approximately $185 million annually, focuses on AEW’s main programs, Dynamite and Collision, which will continue to air on TBS and TNT, respectively.
While these cancellations may disappoint some fans, AEW continues to evolve its programming strategy. The company remains committed to delivering high-quality wrestling content through its flagship shows, Dynamite and Collision, as well as pay-per-view events available for streaming on Max.
The WWE Royal Rumble is a spectacle known for shocking twists, epic moments, and, of course, surprise entrants. Over the years, these unexpected appearances have kept fans on the edge of their seats. Here’s a ranking of the best WWE Royal Rumble surprise entrants ever.
Best Surprise Rumble Entrants
8. Mr. Perfect (2002)
Curt Hennig’s return at the 2002 Rumble brought nostalgia and excitement for fans from the New Generation era. Wrestling fans were treated to a reminder of his flawless in-ring style, making his surprise entrance a standout moment in the 2002 Rumble.
7. Rob Van Dam (2009)
Known for his laid-back persona and in-ring agility, Rob Van Dam made a surprise return during the 2009 Rumble, reigniting the ECW spirit. Fans were ecstatic to see “Mr. Monday Night” back in action, even if only briefly.
6. Bubba Ray Dudley (2015)
After a decade away from WWE, Bubba Ray Dudley made his Royal Rumble debut in 2015, paying homage to his legendary run with the Dudley Boyz. His surprise return received one of the night’s loudest ovations, proving his lasting popularity.
5. Booker T (2011)
Returning during the 40-man Rumble in 2011, Booker T’s appearance was an electrifying nod to his WCW and WWE legacy. His inclusion came with a heavy dose of nostalgia and gave fans a chance to see the multi-time champion perform in a WWE ring once again.
4. Chris Jericho (2013)
Jericho is a master of surprises, and his entrance at the 2013 Royal Rumble was no exception. Fans were led to believe he wouldn’t appear, only for him to show up as the second entrant, lasting nearly 50 minutes in one of the most memorable comebacks of his career.
3. AJ Styles (2016)
AJ Styles was of course a wrestling legend outside WWE, but fans doubted he’d ever step into a WWE ring. That changed in 2016 when Styles debuted as the third entrant in the Rumble match. His arrival not only shocked fans but also began a Hall of Fame-worthy WWE career.
2. John Cena (2008)
Recovering from a torn pectoral muscle in just mere months, John Cena stunned Madison Square Garden by entering as the 30th participant. At a time when injury recovery timelines weren’t as transparent, Cena’s return remains one of the most jaw-dropping moments in Rumble history.
1. Edge (2020)
Edge’s return at the 2020 Royal Rumble was nothing short of historic. After retiring in 2011 due to a life-threatening neck injury, few believed Edge would ever compete again.
His entrance shocked the world and reminded fans of his iconic legacy, with a thunderous crowd reaction to match. It’s very unlikely that this will ever be matched, due to the emotional moment and gravity of Edge getting cleared after nearly a decade.
The WWE Royal Rumble has delivered decades of unforgettable moments. From shocking debuts to emotional comebacks and hilarious mishaps, it remains a fan-favorite event. Here, we rank the best WWE Royal Rumble moments of all time.
The Best Royal Rumble Moments Ever
6. Drew McIntyre Eliminates Brock Lesnar (2020)
Drew McIntyre catapulted his career by eliminating Brock Lesnar, who had dominated the match until then. McIntyre’s win set him on a path to becoming the first-ever British WWE Champion.
5. Vince McMahon Blows His Quads (2005)
In one of the most infamous unscripted moments in WWE history, and arguably now one of the funniest (couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy), Vince McMahon stormed the ring after a botched finish between John Cena and Batista in 2005. In his rush, he tore both quads, resulting in a surreal scene where he issued orders while sitting on the mat.
4. Becky Lynch Wins Big (2019)
After taking Lana’s spot in the match, Becky Lynch overcame Charlotte Flair to win back in 2019. She later headlined WrestleMania, becoming the first woman to simultaneously hold the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. The pop from the audience at the Rumble was massive, it and it remains one of the best moments in the event’s history.
3. John Cena’s Shocking Return (2008)
Thought to be sidelined by injury, John Cena’s surprise return as the No. 30 entrant in 2008 left fans in Madison Square Garden stunned. Even though he was massively hated at that point, he got a huge pop from the New York faithful before they went back to giving him the treatment he was used to at that point.
2. AJ Styles Debuts (2016)
AJ Styles’ Royal Rumble debut was a huge moment. “The Phenomenal One” Styles an immediate impact and has since become one of WWE’s most decorated stars.
1. Edge’s Triumphant Return (2020)
After being forced to retire in 2011 due to neck injuries, Edge’s unexpected return at the 2020 Royal Rumble brought fans to tears. His emotional re-entry into the ring and subsequent triumphs through 2021 helped to cement his legacy even further.
The Miz and Maryse recently opened up about balancing their lives as WWE personalities and their lives as parents to their two daughters. Speaking to PEOPLE at the WWE Raw on Netflix premiere event, Maryse shared that though she misses WWE, nothing can beat being a mom.
“I want to go to bed at night and know that I’m in the same house as my kids, so as much as I love the business, I miss it, I choose my kids.”
While Maryse’s days as a full-time Superstar, The Miz remains active on WWE TV, where he’s been part of Karrion Kross’ feud with the Wyatt Sicks. The two-time Grand Slam Champion is kept busy on the road, though his career shows his children the importance of setting goals.
“I try to find that healthy balance of fulfilling our dreams, but also show our kids if you have a dream, go after it and do what you have to do.”
The couple’s first daughter, Monroe Sky, was born in March 2018. At WWE Elimination Chamber 2019, the duo shared they were expecting again, and Madison Jade was born that September.
Stay tuned to SEScoops for the latest on The Miz and Maryse, as WWE’s resident ‘It Couple’ continue to make waves, both inside and outside of the ring.
The 2025 Royal Rumble is mere weeks away, and excitement is building ahead of the February 1 PLE in Indianapolis, Indiana. With that in mind, here is every WWE Royal Rumble winner and where they are today.
1988: “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan: Duggan won the inaugural Royal Rumble by last eliminating One Man Gang. He retired from in-ring competition and occasionally makes guest appearances at wrestling events.
1989: Big John Studd: Studd secured victory by eliminating Ted DiBiase. He passed away in 1995.
1990 & 1991: Hulk Hogan: Hogan became the first back-to-back winner, solidifying his status as a wrestling icon. He is now retired and makes sporadic appearances for WWE, despite the opinion of fans.
1992: Ric Flair: Flair won the Rumble and the vacant WWF Championship by last eliminating Sid Justice. He is retired and had his final wrestling match in 2022.
1993: Yokozuna. Yokozuna earned a title shot at WrestleMania 9 by eliminating Randy Savage. He passed away in 2000.
1994: Bret Hart & Lex Luger: Both were declared co-winners after simultaneously eliminating each other. Hart is retired and makes occasional WWE appearances; Luger is also retired and involved in motivational speaking.
1995 & 1996: Shawn Michaels: Michaels won consecutive Rumbles, famously starting as the first entrant in 1995. He is retired and works as the head figure in WWE’s NXT brand.
1997, 1998 & 2001: “Stone Cold” Steve Austin: Austin holds the record with three Rumble victories. He is retired but returned to action for one more match in 2022.
1999: Vince McMahon: McMahon won by last eliminating Steve Austin. He resigned from WWE in 2024 amid legal controversies.
2000: The Rock: The Rock won by eliminating Big Show. He is a successful actor and makes occasional WWE appearances, including on this week’s Raw and WWE NXT.
2002 & 2016: Triple H: Triple H won his first Rumble in 2002 and his second in 2016, where he also secured the WWE Championship. He is currently WWE’s Chief Content Officer.
2003 & 2022: Brock Lesnar: Lesnar won his first Rumble in 2003 and his second in 2022, continuing his dominant presence in WWE. He was pulled from all plans last year due to being tied to the Janel Grant lawsuit.
2004: Chris Benoit: Benoit won by last eliminating Big Show. He died in 2007 and WWE avoids mentioning him due to his horrific acts.
2005 & 2014: Batista: Batista won his first Rumble in 2005 and returned to win again in 2014. He is now a successful actor and retired from wrestling.
2006: Rey Mysterio: The WWE Hall of Famer won by last eliminating Randy Orton, dedicating his victory to Eddie Guerrero. He is still active in WWE.
2007: The Undertaker: The Undertaker won by eliminating Shawn Michaels. He retired in 2020 and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2022.
2008 & 2013: John Cena: Cena won his first Rumble in 2008 and his second in 2013. In 2024, he announced he’d be retiring this year, and kicked off his farewell on this week’s Raw.
2009 & 2017: Randy Orton: Orton won his first Rumble in 2009 and his second in 2017. He remains with WWE but is out of action due to an attack by Kevin Owens.
2010 & 2021: Edge: Edge won his first Rumble in 2010 and made a remarkable comeback to win again in 2021. He is now with AEW where he wrestles as Cope.
2011: Alberto Del Rio: Del Rio won what was at the time, the largest Rumble in history, featuring 40 participants. He is no longer affiliated with WWE and has faced legal issues.
2012: Sheamus: Sheamus won by last eliminating Chris Jericho. He is still an active WWE Superstar and hopes to win the Intercontinental Championship.
2015: Roman Reigns: Reigns won by eliminating Rusev. He remains a top star in WWE and has been announced for this year’s Men’s match.
2018: Shinsuke Nakamura: The King of Strong Style won in 2018 by elimiantion Roman Reigns. He is the reigning U.S. Champion.
2018: Asuka: The Empress won by eliminating Nikki Bella. She is currently out of action due to an injury.
2018: Braun Strowman: Strowman won the largest Royal Rumble in history with 50 wrestlers. He was released from WWE in 2021 but brought back in 2022.
2019: Seth Rollins: Rollins won by eliminating Braun Strowman. He is an active competitor in WWE where he’s been feuding with CM Punk.
2019: Becky Lynch: Lynch used her win to headline WrestleMania 35 in the first-ever women’s main event. She left WWE in 2024 but is expected to return.
2020: Drew McIntyre: McIntyre won by eliminating Roman Reigns. He remains a prominent figure in WWE.
2020: Charlotte Flair: Flair made history by challenging for the NXT Women’s Championship at WrestleMania. She has been out of action since 2023 due to a leg injury.
2021: Bianca Belair: Belair won by eliminating Rhea Ripley. She is currently one-half of the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions.
2022: Ronda Rousey: Rousey won by last eliminating Charlotte Flair. She parted ways with WWE in 2023 and recently welcomed her second child into the world.
2023 & 2024: Cody Rhodes: Rhodes’ back-to-back wins saw him finally finish the story at WrestleMania 40. He is the current Undisputed WWE Champion.
2023: Rhea Ripley: Ripley’s win wouuld see her capture the SmackDown Women’s Title at WrestleMania 39. She won the Women’s World Title at this week’s Raw debut on Netflix.
2024: Bayley: The Role Model won the 30-woman match by last eliminating Liv Morgan. She won the WWE Women’s Championship at WrestleMania 40.
Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T proved he’s still got ‘it’ by defeating Zilla Fatu this week in Booker’s first singles match in over half-a-decade. The six-time World Champion got the win at the latest event for Reality of Wrestling, the promotion owned and operated by Booker and his wife Sharmell Huffman.
This win was Booker’s first singles match since a Reality of Wrestling event in January 2019 which saw Booker defeat Rex Andrews. The WWE NXT commentator’s most recent match for WWE was as part of the 2023 Men’s Royal Rumble match won by Cody Rhodes.
Zilla Fatu is the son of the late, great, Umaga, and expectations have been high for the Bloodline family member. In August 2024, Fatu was spotted at WWE SummerSlam, though despite speculation, he did not get involved at the event beyond being a spectator.
AEW has teased Brody King becoming the new leader of House of Black with a new segment featuring Adam Copeland on this week’s Collision.
The former WWE star, now going by just Cope in the company, had a rivalry with the AEW faction before his injury last year. He even had a singles match with King for the TNT Championship during the May 8, 2024 episode of Dynamite.
The two AEW stars shared the screen once again during the most recent TV tapings. Cope cut an interesting promo during this encounter, mentioning all the other members of the House of Black except for the group’s leader Malakai Black:
“We’ve been through a lot, but I hope you know that at the end of all of it, I respect you. I respect you [Julia]. I respect Buddy. I think you have the world of potential at your feet. I know what you bring to the table. Man, I felt it. I wanted us to be a group. But tell you what, it’s time for you to take the reins and run.”
Malakai Black has not been seen on AEW TV since the Full Gear PPV in November. The belief is that he’s finished up with the company and is just waiting for his contract to officially expire sometime in the next couple months.
This latest segment is another indication that the company is planning to move away from the former NXT Champion and we might see the group moving forward under the leadership of King instead.
WWE Women’s U.S. Champion Chelsea Green has made her views clear on Tessa Blanchard, branding the TNA Wrestling star a “racist bully.” Much has been said about Blanchard since her return to TNA last month, with many taking issue at her comeback. Responding to a fan who aruged that people are simply petty and jealous of Blanchard, Green shared her strong response.
This is giving me the ick… you thinking defending a racist bully is cool. Someone tell them, lol ?
This isn’t Green’s first time sharing her honest opinion on Blanchard. Following the initial controversy in 2020, Green shared her support for Blanchard’s accusers. Last August, the WWE Superstar shared that Blanchard had yet to show proper remorse for her alleged actions.
I don’t wish self-harm or thoughts of suicide on anyone and hope she has found peace. However, a simple 'I am sorry' goes a long way. We haven't heard that yet. Accountability matters, and a redemption tour of interviews won't erase the actions of an egotistical bully.
A second-generation wrestler, many had high hopes for the talented Blanchard. Here is a timeline of what happened an how Tessa Blanchard fell from grace:
In January 2020, Blanchard was accused of using a racial slur during an altercation with a fellow wrestler, La Rosa Negra, in a 2017 incident.
Other wrestlers later alleged that Blanchard had been a bully to various women. Blanchard denied several allegations.
That same month, Blanchard made history by winning the Impact World Championship, becoming the first woman to win a men’s world title in a major promotion.
In June 2020, Blanchard was stripped of the Impact World Championship and her contract was terminated days before it was set to expire.
In 2021, Blanchard was announced as a key name in the relaunch of WOW – Women of Wrestling but would leave the company after a falling out.
In 2023, Blanchard and La Rosa Negra shared a smiling photo together, suggesting that their issues were a thing of the past.
In August 2024, Blanchard shares that the collapse of her wrestling career had previously left her feeling unable to go on living.
At Final Resolution 2024, Blanchard returned to Impact Wrestling, now TNA, and entered a feud with Jordynne Grace.
Eric Bischoff believes Hulk Hogan’s Raw reception was due to his political leanings.
WWE presented the Raw on Netflix premiere this past Monday Night on January 6 from Inglewood, California. One of the unlikely talking points coming out of the show was Hulk Hogan getting booed out of the building by fans. The story was picked up by many mainstream outlets after the show.
The former WCW President gave his thoughts on the matter during the latest episode of 83 Weeks podcast. Bischoff first claimed that anyone who hasn’t spent a lot of time in the area would not think it to be a Democrat hub:
“You know, if you’re someone who hasn’t spent a lot of time in California — particularly LA or San Francisco — you’ve heard all the stories about how liberal it is and all that.
But until you’ve been there and realize just how intensely liberal and Democrat California is, you might not think that that could possibly be the reason why Hulk got booed.”
“But Hulk and Trump are kind of joined at the hip now, in the eyes of many. At least publicly, given Hulk’s involvement in — and of course, you’re gonna have some backlash in California. You can’t be shocked; you can’t be surprised. You could be disappointed, but you can’t be surprised.”
While Bischoff suggests otherwise, many people believe that Hogan’s past racially insensitive comments are the reason for the rejection of fans.
Hogan’s Raw return was to promote the company’s new partnership with his beer company and it was expected to lead to more appearances for the WWE Hall of Famer. With the unexpected reception for him however, the officials will now have to rethink their strategy with the former champion.
