10 Biggest WWE Talking Points Coming Out Of Royal Rumble 2018

6. Trish & Lita

Ronda Rousey
WWE.com

While Lita and Trish Stratus always seemed like likely Rumble inclusions, the fact that their appearances were telegraphed took nothing away from their respective runs in the match.

Lita's work had a couple of rough spots, but that's to be anticipated. It'd be wrong to expect flawless technique from somebody who hasn't worked a full-length match since 2006, even if her Moonsault flew with a dangerously low arc. Regardless, she got a great response as the bout's first real surprise, and had to be part of the historic first women's Rumble, such is her importance.

Trish, on the other hand, looked absolutely excellent. Athleticism, body language, execution: everything was on-point, and she engaged in fun showdowns with old rival Mickie James, and Sasha Banks, someone she has never crossed paths with. It's hard to think of a better surprise the company could've pulled at number 30 - even Ronda Rousey wouldn't have gone down as well.

A special mention for Michelle McCool, too. She led the bout with five eliminations, and was surprisingly over throughout, making her an entirely more effective inclusion than the likes of Kelly Kelly and Torrie Wilson.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.