Wrestling News January 31 2026 Evil Rumbles

 # Royal Rumble Riyadh 2026: Surprising Returns, Powerhouse Hobbs Jumps to WWE, and Roman Reigns Fires Shots!

It is January 31, 2026, and the professional wrestling world is buzzing. Today marks a historic milestone as WWE presents the **39th Annual Royal Rumble** live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is the first time in history that the iconic January tradition has been held outside of North America, and the stakes couldn't be higher. 

From massive roster jumps to shocking injury news and last-minute "spoiler" leaks, here is everything you need to know about the current landscape of pro wrestling.

## 1. Royal Rumble Riyadh: Surprise Entrants and a Major Leak

The atmosphere in Riyadh is reportedly electric. According to *Fightful Select*, WWE Hall of Famer **Nikki Bella** has been spotted in Saudi Arabia, making her a lock-in surprise for the Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

However, the road to the Rumble hasn't been without its hiccups. A promotional graphic aired earlier today appears to have accidentally spoiled a major detail: **Bron Breakker** was listed as the #1 entrant for the Men’s Royal Rumble. While WWE has not confirmed this, fans are already debating if the "leak" was intentional or a major production blunder.

Adding to the hype, *Dave Meltzer* reports that rumors of former NJPW star **EVIL** appearing are at a fever pitch. With his contract expiring just yesterday, many expect the "King of Darkness" to make a shocking debut tonight.

## 2. Powerhouse Hobbs Officially Signs with WWE

In what is being described as a massive blow to AEW, **Powerhouse Will Hobbs** has officially jumped ship to WWE. Despite AEW making a "much higher than expected" final offer—reportedly exceeding the first-year earnings of any AEW original—Hobbs opted for a multi-year deal with the TKO-owned giant. Sources indicate Hobbs is looking for a "fresh start" under the Triple H creative era, signaling a major shift in the "Wednesday Night War" veteran ranks.

## 3. Roman Reigns Shoots on the WWE Locker Room

The "Tribal Chief" is back, and he isn't pulling any punches. During an appearance on *The Pat McAfee Show* just 24 hours before the Rumble, **Roman Reigns** delivered a scathing assessment of the current roster. Reigns accused the younger talent of "mediocrity," claiming that no one stepped up to "slam it home" during his recent hiatus. This "shoot" promo has added a layer of genuine tension to his return match tonight, as the locker room is reportedly fuming over his comments.

## 4. AEW Collision: The "Revolution" Build Continues

AEW isn't backing down from the Royal Rumble competition, counter-programming with a loaded live episode of *Collision* from Arlington, Texas. The card features:

*   **AEW International Championship:** Kazuchika Okada (c) vs. Adam Priest.

*   **TNT Championship:** Mark Briscoe (c) vs. Tommaso Ciampa.

*   **AEW Women’s Tag Titles:** Babes of Wrath vs. Sisters of Sin.

*   **Special Attraction:** Clark Connors vs. Darby Allin.

## 5. NJPW & Stardom: EVIL Departs, Heartbreak for Bozilla

The landscape of Japanese wrestling changed today as **EVIL** is officially a free agent. While NJPW offered a massive extension to keep him, his former LIJ teammate Tetsuya Naito fueled the fire by telling *Tokyo Sports* he expects to see EVIL in a "different ring" immediately.

On the Stardom side, the news is devastating. Breakout star **Bozilla** has confirmed a **complete ACL tear**. She will undergo surgery and is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of 2026, a massive loss for the promotion's heavyweight division.

## 6. Lucha Libre: The WWE/AAA Partnership One Year Later

Today marks nearly one year since WWE’s formal investment in Mexico's AAA promotion. To celebrate the "New Era," today’s AAA broadcast on FOX features **Rey de Reyes** qualifying matches, including WWE’s **Apollo Crews** competing against Jack Cartwheel, Aerostar, and La Parka. Additionally, Lola Vice is set to battle La Hiedra to determine who will challenge the reigning Mixed Tag Team Champions, Ethan Page and Chelsea Green.

## 7. Logistics: Severe Weather Disrupts WWE Travel

It hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the Riyadh trip. *PWInsider* reports that severe weather across the U.S. and Canada nearly stranded several Rumble participants. While the main roster stars made it to Saudi Arabia, others like **Grayson Waller and The Street Profits** were rerouted. They will now be appearing at NXT house shows this weekend to fill gaps in the domestic schedule caused by the travel chaos.

***

**What are your predictions for tonight?** Will EVIL actually show up in Riyadh, or is it a smokescreen? And how do you feel about Powerhouse Hobbs joining WWE? 

**Sound off in the comments below!**

Black Eyes-LackLuster (Official Music Video)

Wrestling News January 30 2026

Wrestling News January 30 2026

 # WWE Bound? NJPW Star EVIL Leaving Japan, Royal Rumble Surprises, and Jericho’s Status Revealed

The professional wrestling world is on fire this Friday, January 30, 2026, as we sit just 24 hours away from the Royal Rumble in Riyadh. From shocking departures in Japan to massive returns being spotted at the airport, today’s news cycle is packed with landscape-shifting updates. 

Here is your breakdown of the top stories and rumors from *Wrestling Observer*, *Fightful*, and *PWInsider*.

## EVIL Set to Leave NJPW; Heavy Ties to WWE

In what is being described as a major blow to New Japan Pro Wrestling, the promotion has officially announced that **EVIL** (Takaaki Watanabe) will leave the company when his contract expires at the end of January. 

According to Dave Meltzer and Sean Ross Sapp, the former IWGP Heavyweight Champion is heavily expected to sign with **WWE**. While there was interest from other Japanese promotions, EVIL is reportedly set on relocating to the United States. Interestingly, reports indicate that **AEW** is not currently a landing spot for the House of Torture leader, making a move to the Performance Center or the main roster almost certain.

## Royal Rumble Spoilers: Tiffany Stratton and Nikki Bella Spotted

The road to the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is paved with surprises. **PWInsider Elite** has confirmed that **Tiffany Stratton** is backstage and slated to compete in the Women’s Royal Rumble match. Stratton has been out of action since November 2025, and her return adds significant star power to the bout.

Even more shocking, **Nikki Bella** was reportedly spotted on a flight heading to Riyadh. With Triple H recently teasing that this year’s Rumble would be "one of the most star-studded" in history, a Hall of Fame cameo from a Bella Twin seems to fit the bill perfectly.

## The Chris Jericho Free Agency Mystery

Where in the world is **Chris Jericho**? Despite his AEW contract reportedly expiring in late 2025, "The Learning Tree" is still listed on the AEW active roster page. 

While rumors of a WWE return have reached a fever pitch—fueled by a subtle social media nod from Raw GM Adam Pearce—**Fightful Select** reports that WWE has not yet discussed any concrete creative plans for Jericho. Is he playing both sides, or is a "hush-hush" deal already signed for a Rumble appearance? The speculation continues.

## Injury Update: Rey Mysterio’s Status for Riyadh

There was significant concern following *Monday Night Raw* after **Rey Mysterio** appeared to suffer a shoulder and knee injury during his match with Austin Theory. However, there is good news for the Lucha legend.

Dave Meltzer reports that the injury is "not serious." Mysterio has already arrived in Riyadh and has been spotted looking in good spirits with Penta and Dragon Lee. While he hasn’t been 100% officially cleared by WWE medical as of this morning, the internal word is that he will be ready to go for the 30-Man Rumble match tomorrow.

## Lucha Libre: Penta’s "Company-Shifting" Announcement

Over in the world of Lucha Libre, **Penta** has officially announced the return of the **Rey de Reyes** tournament for AAA. The stakes are massive: the winner will earn a shot at the AAA Mega Championship, currently held by WWE's own **Dominik Mysterio**.

Meanwhile, the CMLL landscape is bracing for the arrival of **MxM TV**. Mason Madden, Mansoor, and Johnny TV are scheduled for a high-profile appearance at tonight's *Viernes Espectacular* at the legendary Arena Mexico.

## Stardom: Saya Kamitani’s Violent Return

After a hiatus following *Wrestle Kingdom 20*, **Saya Kamitani** made her presence felt at the *New Year Stars* event in Tokyo. She shocked the audience by attacking **Starlight Kid** and cutting a scathing promo. Kamitani declared that her "paid leave" is officially over, announcing her in-ring return for Stardom’s *Supreme Fight* on February 7th in Osaka.

## AEW & TNA Quick Hits: Roster Moves and Collaborations

*   **AEW International Title:** It’s official—**Kazuchika Okada** will defend his title against the rising **Adam Priest** on next week’s *Dynamite*.

*   **TNA Signing:** **Bear Bronson** has officially put pen to paper on a full-time TNA contract. He has recently found a home as the powerhouse of **The System** faction alongside Brian Myers and Eddie Edwards.

*   **AEW x Adult Swim:** Rumors are swirling regarding a new collaborative project between AEW and Adult Swim. Expect an official teaser or announcement within the coming weeks.

---

### **What Do You Think?**

Will EVIL thrive in the WWE system, or should he have stayed in Japan? And who is your pick for the surprise entrant of the night at the Royal Rumble? 

**Sound off in the comments below!**

Lucha Libre's New Era

Lucha Libre report January 2026

 # Lucha Libre 2026: AAA’s New Era on FOX, CMLL Unmaskings, and the WWE/AEW Civil War in Mexico

The landscape of professional wrestling in Mexico has undergone a seismic shift as we kick off 2026. From historic television debuts and shocking returns to the unmasking of lucha royalty, January has been one of the most transformative months in recent memory. With the lines between AAA, CMLL, WWE, and AEW blurring more than ever, here is a breakdown of the biggest stories dominating the headlines, with insights from **TheCubsFan (LuchaBlog)** and major industry insiders.

## 1. AAA Debuts "New Era" on FOX Following WWE Partnership

On **January 17, 2026**, Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide officially entered a new dimension, premiering on **FOX Latin America**. This marks the first major televised production since the blockbuster announcement of AAA’s partnership with (and reported acquisition by) WWE in late 2025. 

However, the debut wasn't without controversy. **TheCubsFan** noted a jarring shift in presentation; new video packages reportedly framed AAA’s storied pre-WWE history as "minor league." This "revisionist history" has sparked a heated debate among purists who fear the promotion’s unique cultural identity is being polished away in favor of a homogenized WWE aesthetic.

## 2. El Hijo del Vikingo Becomes #1 Contender for the Mega Championship

In the main event of the FOX premiere, **El Hijo del Vikingo** proved why he remains the gold standard of high-flying wrestling by defeating **El Grande Americano**. With this victory, Vikingo is now the mandatory challenger for the **AAA Mega Championship**.

The title is currently held by **Dominik Mysterio**, who appeared via a pretaped vignette to mock the Mexican audience and boast about his "unbeatable" reign while recovering from a minor injury. While the match was a technical marvel, analysts pointed out the heavy "WWE-style" production, including significant interference from **Dorian Roldan**, signaling a more soap-opera-driven direction for the promotion.

## 3. Santos Escobar Returns to AAA, Targets Dr. Wagner Jr.

The most shocking moment of the January 17 tapings was the unannounced return of **Santos Escobar** (formerly El Hijo del Fantasma). Returning to a Mexican ring for the first time in years, Escobar immediately made his presence felt by attacking the **AAA Latin American Champion, El Hijo de Dr. Wagner Jr.**

This attack sets the stage for a massive "WWE vs. AAA" cross-promotional feud. Wagner Jr. wasted no time in retaliating on social media, officially calling out Escobar for a title match later this month. This rivalry is expected to be a cornerstone of AAA's programming on FOX heading into the spring.

## 4. CMLL "Sin Salida": Robin Unmasked at Arena Mexico

While AAA is focused on global expansion, CMLL continues to lean into the prestige of tradition. On January 2, the annual **Sin Salida** event took place at the legendary Arena Mexico. The night culminated in a high-stakes 16-man steel cage match where masks and hair were on the line.

The final two participants were **Calavera Jr. I** and **Robin**. In a heart-wrenching finish, Calavera Jr. I secured the win, forcing **Robin** to reveal his identity. Robin unmasked as **Robin Alvarado Dominguez**, a 35-year-old veteran with a 20-year career. As a member of the legendary **Alvarado wrestling dynasty**, his unmasking marks the end of an era for one of the most respected families in the sport.

## 5. CMLL/AEW "International Weekend" and Dual Contracts

The alliance between **CMLL** and **AEW** reached a fever pitch this January. The "International Weekend" on January 16 featured high-profile crossovers that delighted the Arena Mexico crowd:

*   **Roderick Strong** defeated the legendary **Hechicero** to become the #1 contender for the CMLL World Heavyweight Championship.

*   **Ricochet** successfully defended the AEW National Championship in a MOTY candidate against **Titan**.

Perhaps more significantly, **TheCubsFan** and the *Wrestling Observer* confirmed that **Máscara Dorada** and **Persephone** have signed groundbreaking "dual contracts." These deals allow them to remain full-time roster members for both CMLL and AEW, a first-of-its-kind arrangement that could change how talent is managed globally.

## 6. Rey de Reyes 2026 Tournament Announced

**Penta (Pentagón Jr.)** took to the airwaves on the January 24 episode of AAA on FOX to officially announce the **Rey de Reyes 2026** tournament. The winner will receive the "Sacred Sword" and a guaranteed shot at Dominik Mysterio’s AAA Mega Championship.

Penta revealed a diverse first block of participants:

*   **Apollo Crews** (WWE representation)

*   **Jack Cartwheel**

*   **Aerostar**

*   **Elio LeFleur**

The mix of international "WWE-style" talent and local high-flyers suggests that AAA is aiming for a global viewership with this year's tournament.

## 7. 2025 Tapatia Awards Voting Closes

Finally, the voice of the fans has been heard. **TheCubsFan** officially closed the voting for the **2025 Tapatia Awards** on January 21. These awards are widely considered the most prestigious fan-voted honors in Lucha Libre.

Early reports suggest a dominant year for **Místico** and **El Hijo del Vikingo**. Furthermore, **CMLL** is heavily favored to sweep the "Promotion of the Year" category, thanks to their incredible momentum and record-breaking attendance streaks at Arena Mexico throughout the latter half of 2025.

***

### **Conclusion**

January 2026 has set a wild tone for the rest of the year. Whether you prefer the high-gloss, WWE-influenced "New Era" of AAA or the star-studded international partnerships of CMLL, there has never been a more exciting time to be a Lucha Libre fan.

**What do you think of AAA's new direction on FOX? Is the WWE influence helping or hurting the product? Let us know in the comments below!**

Wrestling News January 29 2926 Ciampa, Rumble & The Shift