Lita & Trish Stratus Return During WWE Women's Royal Rumble

Returns galore in the first ever women's bout.

Sasha banks Trish Stratus
WWE.com

Given that WWE had announced just 16 of the bout's 30 participants prior to the event, the first ever women's Royal Rumble was always going to be full of surprises, and the company didn't disappointed.

A host of former stars appeared during the bout, with four-time Women's Champion Lita providing the first major shock at number five. Emerging to a great reception in Philly, she put forth a commendable run, throwing Tamina and Mandy Rose out prior to her own elimination at Becky Lynch's hands.

Fellow Hall Of Famers Jacqueline and Beth Phoenix also entered, but WWE saved the best for last, with Trish Stratus coming at out at number 30. She delivered an ageless performance, engaging in a memorable showdown with former rival Mickie James, whom she eliminated. Sasha Banks eventually threw Stratus over the top, but the company couldn't have delivered a more satisfying final entrant.

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Other notable returns included Michelle McCool, who eliminated a total of five women (more than anyone else), along with Molly Holly, Torrie Wilson, Kelly Kelly, and Vickie Guerrero. NXT stars Ember Moon and Kairi Sane also entered, though neither managed an elimination.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.