WWE fans are eagerly anticipating the returns of several prominent superstars, including Randy Orton, in the lead-up to this year’s Royal Rumble, scheduled for January 31st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With 2026 underway, excitement is building for the event, marking a busy January filled with significant wrestling moments.
Randy Orton has been absent from WWE programming since October 3rd, when he was attacked during an episode of SmackDown. Since then, he has focused on family time and even traveled to Saudi Arabia to support the Royal Rumble promotion, confirming his participation in the event.
In addition to Orton, reports from Wrestlevotes Radio via Fightful Select indicate that several other WWE stars are set to return, including Brock Lesnar, LA Knight, Chad Gable, Tiffany Stratton, Jacob Fatu, and Dominik Mysterio. Some of these athletes, Fatu and Mysterio, have been recovering from injuries, while Knight and Stratton were given time off after busy schedules in 2025. Lesnar, known for his part-time schedule, is expected to make a significant appearance, similar to Orton’s more active participation.
Randy Orton’s potential return could occur as soon as tonight on the January 2nd edition of SmackDown in Buffalo, with his name featured on WWE’s official website and merchandise being advertised at the KeyBank Center. This adds to the speculation surrounding his comeback, though the venue is also promoting John Cena merchandise, who has retired from wrestling.
Brock Lesnar’s anticipated return to the Royal Rumble is a focal point for fans, as TC from Wrestlevotes Radio remarked on his status as a major draw and the impact he has when entering the ring. Lesnar’s presence could elevate the stakes for those competing against him, providing opportunities for other wrestlers to gain recognition by eliminating him.
As for Randy Orton, he is being considered for a prominent match at WrestleMania 42, with speculation linking him to possible storylines with fellow superstars Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns. Meanwhile, Jacob Fatu, who has been sidelined, is also poised for a comeback, which will be interesting to see in terms of character development and how he integrates back into the roster.
With the Royal Rumble just 29 days away, excitement is palpable as fans and wrestlers alike gear up for the journey leading to WrestleMania 42, promising intriguing storylines and compelling matchups.