WWE has officially locked in the date for next years Royal Rumbleand its a history-making move.
During the September 12, 2025 press event announcing WrestleMania 43 for Riyadh, officials also confirmed that the 2026 Royal Rumble will take place on Saturday, January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
This marks the first time the Royal Rumble will be held outside of North America, and the first time its been hosted outside the United States since its debut event in 1988 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
A start time for the event wasnt announced, though its expected to air earlier than usual for fans in the U.S., consistent with past WWE shows held in Saudi Arabia.
The announcement caps off months of speculation, dating back to May 2024 when Saudi Arabia was first linked to the Rumble. The deal was reportedly finalized earlier this year, and WWE made it official during Fridays live event.
WWEs working relationship with Saudi Arabia began in 2018 and has led to major shows like Crown Jewel, Greatest Royal Rumble, Night of Champions, and Elimination Chamber taking place in the country. But locking in the Royal Rumblethe road to WrestleManiais another major step.
While WrestleMania 43s exact date remains unannounced, it will land sometime during Riyadh Season, which spans from October through March.
How do you feel about the Royal Rumble officially landing on January 31 in Saudi Arabia? Will the international stage change the vibe of the event? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know.
