Backstage News On How Many Matches WWE Is Planning For The 2026 Royal Rumble PLE

Dave Meltzer noted in the latest edition of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that WWE is planning a four-match card for the 2026 Royal Rumble premium live event (PLE). Meltzer mentioned that if this plan is accurate, the show will follow a similar format to Survivor Series: WarGames, which featured two WarGames matches and two title matches.

According to Meltzer, the current plans for Royal Rumble 2026 include both the men's and women’s Rumble matches, along with two championship bouts that are still being finalized. This information was first reported by WrestleVotes, and the Observer has confirmed that this is the working format for the premium live event scheduled for January 31 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

WWE officials are reportedly discussing several high-profile title match options, but they have not yet finalized the challengers or champions who are expected to appear since the event is just under two months away. This strategy helps avoid crowding the undercard and allows the creative team to adapt as storylines develop following NXT Deadline, Saturday Night’s Main Event: John Cena’s Final Match, and Saturday Night’s Main Event XLIII.