The WWE Royal Rumble has delivered decades of unforgettable moments. From shocking debuts to emotional comebacks and hilarious mishaps, it remains a fan-favorite event. Here, we rank the best WWE Royal Rumble moments of all time.
The Best Royal Rumble Moments Ever
6. Drew McIntyre Eliminates Brock Lesnar (2020)
Drew McIntyre catapulted his career by eliminating Brock Lesnar, who had dominated the match until then. McIntyre’s win set him on a path to becoming the first-ever British WWE Champion.
5. Vince McMahon Blows His Quads (2005)
In one of the most infamous unscripted moments in WWE history, and arguably now one of the funniest (couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy), Vince McMahon stormed the ring after a botched finish between John Cena and Batista in 2005. In his rush, he tore both quads, resulting in a surreal scene where he issued orders while sitting on the mat.
4. Becky Lynch Wins Big (2019)
After taking Lana’s spot in the match, Becky Lynch overcame Charlotte Flair to win back in 2019. She later headlined WrestleMania, becoming the first woman to simultaneously hold the Raw and SmackDown Women’s Championships. The pop from the audience at the Rumble was massive, it and it remains one of the best moments in the event’s history.
3. John Cena’s Shocking Return (2008)
Thought to be sidelined by injury, John Cena’s surprise return as the No. 30 entrant in 2008 left fans in Madison Square Garden stunned. Even though he was massively hated at that point, he got a huge pop from the New York faithful before they went back to giving him the treatment he was used to at that point.
2. AJ Styles Debuts (2016)
AJ Styles’ Royal Rumble debut was a huge moment. “The Phenomenal One” Styles an immediate impact and has since become one of WWE’s most decorated stars.
1. Edge’s Triumphant Return (2020)
After being forced to retire in 2011 due to neck injuries, Edge’s unexpected return at the 2020 Royal Rumble brought fans to tears. His emotional re-entry into the ring and subsequent triumphs through 2021 helped to cement his legacy even further.