The WWE Royal Rumble is one of the most iconic events in pro wrestling. Its history is filled with incredible moments, unforgettable surprises, and legendary winners.

However, not every winner has lived up to the hype. Let’s take a look at some of the best and worst Royal Rumble winners ever.

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The Best WWE Royal Rumble Winners

1. Stone Cold Steve Austin (1997, 1998, 2001)

Stone Cold Steve Austin is the undisputed king of the Royal Rumble. With three wins under his belt, Austin’s victories solidified his status as one of the greatest superstars in WWE history. His 1997 win is particularly memorable, as he cheated to secure his spot, igniting his legendary feud with Bret Hart.

2. Shawn Michaels (1995, 1996)

Shawn Michaels’ back-to-back Royal Rumble wins showcased his athleticism and charisma. His 1995 victory, where he entered at No. 1 and lasted until the end, is one of the most iconic performances in the event’s history.

3. Ric Flair (1992)

Ric Flair’s 1992 win was more than just a victory…it was a masterpiece. Entering at No. 3, Flair lasted over an hour to win the vacant WWE Championship. His performance remains a benchmark for endurance and quality in the Rumble.

4. Becky Lynch (2019)

Becky Lynch’s 2019 victory was a groundbreaking moment for women’s wrestling. “The Man” capitalized on her momentum to headline WrestleMania 35, making history as part of the first-ever women’s main event.

The Worst WWE Royal Rumble Winners

1. Vince McMahon (1999)

The 1999 Royal Rumble winner was none other than WWE’s chairman, Vince McMahon. While it made for an entertaining storyline, his victory over Steve Austin felt like a missed opportunity to elevate another superstar.

2. Alberto Del Rio (2011)

Alberto Del Rio’s win in the largest Royal Rumble match (40 entrants) was met with lukewarm reactions. His victory did little to boost his career or create lasting memories

3. Batista (2014)

Batista’s 2014 win came at the expense of fan-favorite Daniel Bryan, sparking a major backlash. While Batista’s legacy is undeniable, this victory felt like the wrong choice for the WWE Universe.

4. Big John Studd (1989)

As one of the earliest Royal Rumble winners, Big John Studd’s 1989 victory lacked the stakes and excitement of later editions. It’s a largely forgotten moment in WWE’s illustrious history.