The Royal Rumble has always been one of the WWE’s most exciting matches but in recent years the potential for a shocking return has added new layers of unpredictability and intrigue. With potentially the biggest WrestleMania in history just around the corner, and following two underwhelming previous instalments, delivering an unforgettable Rumble match will be imperative. This post looks at five superstars whose unlikely involvement would undoubtedly help elevate the match to the level of quality we’ve come to expect from the January classic.
Finn Balor
Red hot since debuting in the fall of 2014 Finn Balor is a one-of-a-kind talent whose rise to superstardom is inevitable in 2016. With so many injuries suffered by main event superstars just months before WrestleMania the WWE would be wise to strongly consider promoting the current NXT champion up to its main roster. The Rumble match has always been a great way for a debuting or returning superstar to make an instant impact, and with Balor’s unique look, world-class ability and undeniable superstar aura an appearance in this year’s match would be the best way for ‘The Demon’ to jump straight into a prominent spot.
AJ Styles
One of the finest professional wrestlers to never compete in a Royal Rumble match, a debut at this year’s event followed by a WrestleMania outing would essentially complete the long career checklist for the universally respected veteran, AJ Styles. His signing with WWE is still not confirmed but with the promotion actively teasing the impending arrival of the former TNA champion along with fellow NJPW Bullet Club members, an unannounced appearance followed by a strong showing in this year’s match would be a great way to introduce him to the masses.
The Rock
Whether he’s cutting a promo, ‘laying the smacketh down’ or simply appearing via the dreaded satellite, the appearance of The Rock is always guaranteed to produce a huge reaction. Already confirmed to appear at WrestleMania in a currently unknown capacity, the inclusion of the legendary ‘People’s Champion’ in this year’s Rumble match wouldn’t just be his first appearance in the match as an official participant since 2001, it would also add some much needed star power to the event and also potentially set up an angle to justify his inclusion in the year’s biggest show...not that he really needs one.
Kurt Angle
Stunning fans by leaving for TNA in 2006. Angle has experienced lasting success with the Tennessee-based promotion, but nothing quite near the level he enjoyed with the much larger WWE. Recent appearances from TNA alum James Storm, Rhyno, Samoa Joe, and most significantly, The Dudley Boyz, along with news that he’ll be leaving the promotion in January have all added fuel to speculation that Angle could be about to embark on one final run with the promotion that made him a superstar. It’s highly unlikely to happen given Angle’s existing UK tour commitments, but recent Rumble matches have always included a shocking return from a familiar face. It would be an all-time event moment if that returning star was the much-missed Olympic gold medallist.
Daniel Bryan
Just a couple of years ago Daniel Bryan was the cult hero of the WWE; a star whose overwhelming popularity with the fans led to his show-stealing capture of the world heavyweight title at WrestleMania 30. Unfortunately that now seems like a lifetime ago however and Bryan has essentially been on the shelf ever since thanks to a succession of concussions and neck injuries. Now more than ever the WWE needs a superstar of Bryan’s calibre to help put a hundred thousand butts in seats for this year’s WrestleMania, and if he’s healthy a shock return as the Rumble’s final entrant would be an stunning way for the leader of the ‘YES! Movement’ to make a comeback.
Who would you like to see participate in this year’s Royal Rumble match? Leave your suggestions in the comments section below!
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