Royal Rumble is less than one week away and marks the first of WWE’s Big 4 premium live events of the year. Also, the 30-men and 30-women over-the-top-rope matches will determine who earns the opportunity to face their titleholder of his or her choice in the main event match wrestled on the WrestleMania stage. As one of the most unpredictable events on the annual calendar, the Royal Rumble has become a moniker for surprise entrants, shocking returns and memorable happenings that keep the WWE Universe talking.
WWE has announced many competitors announced as part of the Royal Rumble this year, and few were as well received as the news of Bubba Ray being a part of it. Confirmed entrants include the likes of Charlotte Flair, Omos, and others as the excitement mounts for what will be a star-studded affair. But as the tradition goes, the Royal Rumble is all about being unpredictable, and WWE loves to throw a shocking surprise. Although the list of potential returns and surprise entrants will get out one way or another as they are rumored and/or leaked, some will be surprises and the company always has the chance to surprise the WWE Universe on this biggest of stages.
Here’s the list of Entrances that will shock the WWE Universe:
5. AJ Styles
AJ Styles has been out of action since being injured at a live event late last year, and fans are excited to see him back inside the squared circle. In recent interviews, the pro wrestling icon has alluded to retirement not being far behind. In that case this year’s Royal Rumble could potentially be his last, just like John Cena, who is approaching the end of his career.
Now, seeing “The Phenomenal One” as winner of the match is not likely, but his possible return will still make an impact. Styles debuted at the 2016 Royal Rumble and broke the internet forever. So making his return at the same PLE would be a great full circle moment after his injury. It also provides the ideal opportunity to start what looks to be his last run, picking up steam toward an emotional send-off at WrestleMania or some other marquee event. Styles’ return would undoubtedly draw a thunderous reaction and remind everyone why he’s considered one of the best performers of his generation.
Malakai/Aleister Black
AEW appears to have confirmed the speculation about Malakai Black’s release. This opens the door to Aleister Black possibly returning to WWE, where his wife, Zelina Vega, is currently employed. The Royal Rumble’s 30-man battle would be the ideal stage for his dramatic return.
Before he left, Black was considered one of WWE’s fastest-rising stars and his return could rejuvenate both his career and the company’s creative direction. A potential storyline could see him align with the Wyatt Sicks as their new leader, providing the faction with a much-needed boost in credibility and intrigue.
Britt Baker
Got to admit though, Britt Baker jumping ship to WWE would certainly be good buzz, especially if they brought her on as a surprise entrant at something like the Royal Rumble. Her presence would draw eyes and instantly elevate WWE’s women’s division with star power and tremendous fanfare.
And even aside from the element of surprise, Britt Baker would bring a wealth of exciting potential matchups with her if she joined WWE. She would slot perfectly into main event feuds with WWE’s top female attractions: Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, Bianca Belair and Rhea Ripley. This would do more than just add some much-needed quality to the WWE product, it would also see Baker’s star power continued to build up. As a proven major player in AEW already, Baker would certainly add another level of legitimacy to WWE’s component.
Big E
Big E’s return may be one of the biggest and most emotional returns in wrestling in recent memory, on par with that of Edge in 2020. The former WWE Champion shore up is inactive with a career-threatening neck injury. While he hasn’t shared much information about his recovery, that might play into WWE’s plan of building anticipation of E’s return. Recently seen at The New Day’s 10th anniversary celebration, Big E was humiliated by Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, hinting at a potential storyline brewing.
A built-up reaction from fans could also be triggered by his return out of nowhere. There is always the possibility that if the former tag team champion is healthy enough to return, it could lead to a a full blown feud with himself, Kofi, and Xavier. It would add an emotional layer to the rivalry. It would allow the former New Day member to return with a storyline, and fans would step along with Big E from injury to redemption. It would also be a new direction for both his character and WWE, and a welcome surprise return.
The Rock
There’s not been any word yet of The Rock meeting with either Roman Reigns or Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41. However, WWE may be biding its time to spring the big match when the tent poles are set. With Reigns and Rhodes both having loads of momentum behind them, WWE may be holding this possible showdown to a later time, especially considering last year’s build-up never participated.
This recent speculation follows The Rock’s recent appearances, in which he has been seen hyping up both Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes. His words indicate WWE could be planting the seeds for a three-way storyline that culminates in a championship bout. The match of such magnitude would a likely take place on the WrestleMania stage.
The Royal Rumble 2025 could see The Rock make a shocking return, entering at number 31 with his executive power. The return could see him eliminate Roman Reigns, taking it away from the Tribal Chief. This would lead to an explosive feud and culminate in a highly anticipated triple-threat match at WrestleMania 41 between The Rock, Reigns and Rhodes. This match would be an absolute dream, the combination of the bitter rivalry and superstar status of all three of them making it one of the biggest attractions in WrestleMania history.
REDDAVENI SAISNEHA 
Sachin Singh