WWE Royal Rumble 2026 is set to make history as one of the most anticipated premium live events in professional wrestling.
Fans across the globe are counting down to a night that promises spectacle, surprises, and career-defining moments as WWE brings one of its flagship events to a groundbreaking new location.
A historic Royal Rumble awaits in Riyadh
The Royal Rumble, first held in 1988, will take place this year in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the first time the iconic event is staged outside the United States.
The show will be held at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) on Saturday, January 31, making it the first of WWE’s traditional “Big Five” events to be hosted in Saudi Arabia.
Adding to its historic significance, Royal Rumble 2026 will also be the first edition of the event to livestream on ESPN in the United States, reflecting WWE’s evolving global broadcast strategy.
What is the Royal Rumble match?
For newer fans, the Royal Rumble is a unique battle royal featuring traditionally 30 participants who enter the ring at timed intervals.
Superstars are eliminated when thrown over the top rope with both feet touching the floor. The final competitor standing wins the match.
Since 2018, WWE has hosted both men’s and women’s Royal Rumble matches, with each winner earning a world championship opportunity at WrestleMania.
This year’s WrestleMania will be a two-night event on April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada.
WWE Royal Rumble 2026 date and start times
Royal Rumble 2026 airs at the following approximate times:
Saudi Arabia: 10:00 pm AST
United States: 2:00 pm ET
United Kingdom: 7:00 pm GMT
India: 12:00 am IST (Sunday)
Australia: 5:00 am AWST (Sunday)
Japan: 3:30 am JST (Sunday)
Mexico: 12:30 pm CDMX
Where to Watch WWE Royal Rumble 2026
United States: Streaming live on ESPN’s direct-to-consumer service as part of the Unlimited plan.
Worldwide (including UK, India, Australia, Canada): Available via Netflix, which began its 10-year global streaming deal with WWE in 2025.
Tickets and Venue Information
Royal Rumble 2026 will be hosted at the King Abdullah Financial District, a rapidly emerging venue for major global sports and entertainment events under the Riyadh Season initiative. Ticket details are expected to be announced through official WWE channels.