WWE Royal Rumble 2022: 10 Surprise Entrants We Could See

7. Corey Graves

Corey Graves WWE 24/7 Title
WWE.com

News that Corey Graves had been cleared to compete by WWE didn't come completely out of the blue, given his 24/7 Title mess-around on Raw's 8 November 2021 episode, but it was surprising nonetheless. WWE's most prominent colour commentator has been out of the ring since 2014. Concussion issues forced him to step away from it for what he probably assumed was forever and even when the likes of Daniel Bryan and Edge came off the "no contact" list, Graves' name never became a hot topic.

Whether or not Graves makes use of his clearance will likely depend on how big his itch to compete again gets. He has a tremendous commentary gig, having made the role his own since taking it on almost seven years ago. Can he balance that with another wrestling run? Would he risk swapping a stable gig or one that might not pay off?

These are long-term questions. For now, putting Corey in for a brief Rumble spot would make for a fun surprise on the night. Few would see it coming, even after his clearance, and he could be cleared out of the ring quickly too.

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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.