WWE Royal Rumble 2019: Rating Each Entrant's Chances Of Winning
20 names have been announced so far, but how many can actually win?
The 2019 Royal Rumble feels like last year's.
A field lacking in major star-power presents several potential winners, one of whom looks a notch likelier than the rest, though his triumph isn't a sure thing. 2018's pre-Rumble favourite (Roman Reigns) finished as Shinsuke Nakamura's runner-up, having starred in an electric, well-agented closing stretch, the likes of which the bout hadn't seen in years. 2019's odds-leader should meet the same jubilation 'The King Of Strong Style' enjoyed should he succeed where Roman failed.
2018's match was a roaring success, immediately joining 1992, 2001, and 2007 in the 'Best Rumble Ever' debate. Living up to those standards will be difficult, but WWE can start by picking the right winner. Fortunately, there are a number of options among the 20 confirmed participants that would not only be accepted by the audience, but also make compelling opposition for Brock Lesnar, presuming 'The Beast' holds onto his Universal Champion until WrestleMania 35.
Or they could book Baron Corbin to win, perish the thought.
That WWE still have 10 spots to fill means it's tough to tell how the field will finish, but unpredictability will always be part of the Rumble's appeal. Let's try to cut through it...
21. A Surprise Entrant
This one varies from participant to participant.
Harper, Rowan, Bray Wyatt, and Matt Hardy have all been linked with Rumble returns, but none have a hope in hell of winning. Batista would likely fare better, provided him and the company have found room in 'The Animal's' Hollywood schedule. Kevin Owens should have an outside chance. Kenny Omega is under New Japan contract until 31 January, so that isn't happening. An NXT wrestler? Nope. Big Show or Kane? Absolutely not.
With all that said, WWE don't tend to have surprise entrants win the Rumble these days. Err on the side of caution.
Chances: Variable.