Sami Zayn's record in WWE World title matches
(Courtesy : WWE via Getty)
Quebec’s own is set for another title clash at Royal Rumble 2026!
Sami Zayn started off his career in WWE with the developmental brand NXT and slowly transformed into a fan-favorite star and one of the best underdog babyfaces of his generation.
Following his run in NXT, which saw him capture the NXT title, Zayn was promoted to the main roster. The NXT alumni quickly showcased their elite in-ring skills, and even showcased on-mic skills, and were part of many incredible storylines.
Zayn’s role in the iconic Bloodline storyline, featuring big names like Roman Reigns, Jey, and Jimmy Uso, was career-defining. Following his recent United States title loss to Ilja Dragunov, Zayn has been on an incredible rise.
Recently, during the January 24, 2026, edition of SNME, Sami defeated Damian Priest, Randy Orton, and Trick Williams in a fatal four-way to become the number one contender for the Undisputed WWE title. He is now set to battle Drew McIntyre for the title at the upcoming Royal Rumble PLE.
Ahead of his title clash against the Scottish Warrior, let us take a look at Zayn’s record in WWE World title matches.
Sami Zayn’s full record in WWE World title matches
| S.No. | Event | Stipulation | Opponent (Champion) | Result | Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Royal Rumble 2016 | World Heavyweight Title Royal Rumble match | 30-man Rumble match | Loss | 0–1 |
| 2. | Royal Rumble 2018 | WWE Title Two-On-One Handicap match | AJ Styles & Kevin Owens | Loss | 0-2 |
| 3. | Fastlane 2018 | WWE Title Six Pack Challenge | AJ Styles, Baron Corbin, Dolph Ziggler, John Cena & Kevin Owens | Loss | 0-3 |
| 4. | WWE SmackDown (May 07, 2019) | WWE Title Triple Threat | Kofi Kingston & AJ Styles | Loss | 0-4 |
| 5. | WWE SmackDown (December 03, 2021) | Singles match for the WWE Universal Title | Roman Reigns | Loss | 0-5 |
| 6. | Elimination Chamber 2023 | Singles match for the WWE Tite & WWE Universal Title | Roman Reigns | Loss | 0-6 |
| 7. | WWE Raw (November 06, 2023) | Singles match for the World Heavyweight title | Seth Rollins | Loss | 0-7 |
| 8. | WWE Raw (October 7, 2024) | Singles match for the World Heavyweight title | Gunther | Loss (via referee’s decision) | 0-8 |
| 9. | Royal Rumble 2026 | Singles match for the Undisputed WWE title | Drew McIntyre | Loss | 0-9 |
While Sami Zayn has captured the Intercontinental Championship four times, the United States Championship once, and both the World Tag Team Titles and WWE Tag Team Titles once alongside Kevin Owens, he has so far been unable to capture a World Championship in WWE.
In total, across eight attempts, including the 30-Man Royal Rumble match in 2016, Sami has been unable to come out on top and capture the WWE World Championship.
Sami then faced one of his toughest challenges in Drew, a rival he has never been able to pin. McIntyre remained undefeated against Zayn, pinning him to retain the title in his first defense at the 2026 edition of the Royal Rumble.
What titles has Sami Zayn won in WWE?
Zayn has captured the Intercontinental Championship four times, the United States Championship once, and both the World Tag Team Titles and WWE Tag Team Titles once alongside Kevin Owens.
Has Sami Zayn ever held the WWE World title?
No, despite his impressive resume, Zayn so far has been unable to capture a World title in the WWE.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.
Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.