Top five replacements for Rey Mysterio in WWE Royal Rumble 2026
(Courtesy : Netflix)
Rey picked up an injury on the recent episode of RAW.
The January 26 edition of WWE Monday Night RAW delivered an unfortunate development just days before the Royal Rumble 2026. During a singles match against Austin Theory, Rey Mysterio appeared to suffer a legitimate injury.
Moments after the bout, the referee threw up the “X” signal, and subsequent reports confirmed that the WWE Hall of Famer was indeed hurt.
With Mysterio’s status for the Men’s Royal Rumble now in serious doubt, WWE may be forced to make a late adjustment to the 30-man field. If the Master of the 619 is ruled out, several intriguing names stand out as potential replacements.
AJ Styles
AJ Styles is reportedly nearing the end of his in-ring career, with Royal Rumble weekend rumored to be pivotal. Coming off high-profile matches against Shinsuke Nakamura and CM Punk, Styles could realistically pull double duty.
If the Rumble opens the show, The Phenomenal One could enter the match before later facing Gunther with his career on the line.
Also Read: Five darkhorses for Women’s WWE Royal Rumble 2026 match
Finn Balor
RAW made it clear this week that Balor is not turning babyface anytime soon. After thanking CM Punk earlier in the night, Balor shocked fans by attacking Punk during the World Heavyweight Championship main event against AJ Styles.
Earlier, Adam Pearce denied Balor’s request to enter the Royal Rumble. If WWE needs a replacement and has no immediate rematch planned, inserting The Prince would instantly add drama.
Stone Cold Steve Austin
Reports have suggested WWE is exploring ways to bring Austin back in a limited capacity. While a full match seems unlikely, a Royal Rumble appearance in Saudi Arabia would create one of the loudest reactions of the night. Replacing Rey Mysterio with “Stone Cold” would be a classic WWE swing-for-the-fences moment.
Also Read: Top nine WWE Superstars with most Royal Rumble appearances
Jimmy Uso
Jimmy Uso has been absent from WWE television for the past two weeks due to personal reasons. Meanwhile, Jey Uso has already declared himself for the Men’s Royal Rumble.
A surprise Jimmy Uso return as Mysterio’s replacement would keep the spotlight firmly on The Bloodline-adjacent story and re-establish Jimmy instantly.
Chad Gable
Chad Gable has been sidelined since summer 2025 with a shoulder injury, but recent reports indicate he is nearing a return. If medically cleared, Gable could make his comeback in the Royal Rumble, potentially under the “El Grande Americano” persona teased earlier.
Replacing Mysterio with Gable would be both fresh and meaningful, giving him an instant platform after months away.
Is Rey Mysterio officially out of the Royal Rumble?
No official announcement has been made, but reports confirm Rey Mysterio suffered a legitimate injury.
Who decides Rey Mysterio’s replacement if needed?
RAW General Manager Adam Pearce would likely announce any change to the Rumble lineup.
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Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.