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Chris Jericho Returns: Historic Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia

1/16/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Chris Jericho (WWE) is set to return at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia on January 31.
This would be his first appearance since leaving All Elite Wrestling.
The Royal Rumble will be historic as the first held outside North America.
WWE remains confident the event will proceed despite stadium readiness concerns and the option to relocate to the United States if necessary.

History

Historical Context

The Royal Rumble, established in 1988 by WWE, revolutionized wrestling with its unique match format, where participants enter at timed intervals. WWE's strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia, initiated in 2018, aims to enhance global reach, exemplified by the 2022 Crown Jewel event generating $10 million. This international focus is reshaping wrestling narratives and may influence future events and partnerships worldwide.

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Story summary

Chris Jericho (WWE) is set to return at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia on January 31.
This would be his first appearance since leaving All Elite Wrestling.
The Royal Rumble will be historic as the first held outside North America.
WWE remains confident the event will proceed despite stadium readiness concerns and the option to relocate to the United States if necessary.

1 / 2