Top seven major WWE returns that could transpire in early 2026

Nik O Connor has been Khel Now since 2024 and covers WWE.

Published at :December 31, 2025 at 7:22 PM

Modified at :December 31, 2025 at 7:22 PM

(Courtesy : Getty)

2026 could see some blockbuster WWE returns.

2025 was potentially one of the top years in WWE‘s illustrious history. From John Cena’s farewell tour to the rise of new and exciting talent and highly successful events and metrics, the Stamford-based promotion had a spectacular year. They could take their game to the next level in the early start of 2026 with seven blockbuster returns to the company.

7. Brie Bella

While Nikki Bella came back to WWE in 2025, fans have missed the presence of the other Bella Twin, i.e., Brie Bella. However, the legendary duo together is a big draw for the company any day, and 2026 could be the time for that glorious reunion.

6. Kevin Owens

The WWE Universe witnessed Kevin Owens‘ return during John Cena’s last match in December 2025. The Prize Fighter has been out of action for a year with a neck injury. There could be a chance that KO might recover in time to return in early 2026 and be a part of the road to WrestleMania.

pic.twitter.com/Qj4r7hdSzG
— Kevin (@FightOwensFight) December 29, 2025

5. Bianca Belair

Bianca Belair has not competed in the ring since WrestleMania 41. She injured her fingers during her last in-ring bout and missed the entire 2025. With the hunger to reclaim her place in the women’s division, Belair might show up as a surprise entrant in the 2026 Royal Rumble in January.

4. Seth Rollins

Seth Rollins in WWE — (Courtesy: Netflix)

Amidst a top run on Monday Night RAW, Seth Rollins injured his shoulder at WWE Crown Jewel 2025 just moments before winning the Crown Jewel title. The Visionary might be inching close to a return, and it could happen in the early part of next year. He could be involved in major storylines against Bron Breakker and Roman Reigns.

3. Roman Reigns

Roman Reigns WWE Cody Rhodes — (Courtesy: Getty)

Roman Reigns returned in November 2025 to be a part of the War Games match, only to end up on the losing side. The OTC might have taken his time to regroup from the loss and could have a blockbuster return to WWE at the onset of 2026 to be a part of the road to WrestleMania.

He looks set to return at Royal Rumble at the end of January 2026 and face Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE title at Mania.

2. John Cena

John Cena WWE Saturday Night's Main Event (2) — (Courtesy: Getty)

John Cena might have hung up his wrestling boots, but he is still signed to WWE as an ambassador. The company might cement its legacy with a 2026 WWE Hall of Fame induction, leading to the Never Seen 17‘s return for appearances.

1. Chris Jericho

Chris Jericho WWE AEW Royal Rumble 2026 — (Courtesy: Getty)

Chris Jericho has been heavily rumored to return to WWE amidst his prolonged hiatus from AEW. With his current deal expiring in December, the early part of 2026 could see the blockbuster comeback of Y2J to his previous company for the one final rumored run in wrestling.

Which superstars are currently active in WWE as performers who can return?

Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, Bianca Belair, and Kevin Owens.

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N. O'Connor

Nik O Conner is a long-time fan of professional wrestling. After dropping his Engineering regular studies in 2020, he decided to pursue his passion and became a writer. Over the last few years, he has written for multiple webs bringing a lot of skills and creativity to the table.