5 wrestlers who debuted in WWE Royal Rumble on PPV

The Royal Rumble, an annual extravaganza in the world of WWE, has become synonymous with unpredictability, iconic moments, and the much-anticipated 30-Men and 30-Women Royal Rumble match. As fans eagerly await each year, the event not only delivers gripping action but also shapes the future narrative of WWE storylines. 

From its humble beginnings in 1988, the Royal Rumble has evolved into a cornerstone of WWE’s programming. Initially conceived as a unique battle royal concept, the event has grown in scale and significance over the years. Debuting during the Royal Rumble is a coveted opportunity for wrestlers. 

Whether it’s making a grand entrance during the Rumble match itself or through another segment, such debuts often lead to prime spots on the WrestleMania card. Let’s look at some of the top debuts in WWE over the years:

1. AJ Styles- 2016

Before gracing the grand stage of WWE, AJ Styles embarked on a different journey. He honed his craft in Japan, soaking up the hard-hitting and intense style of New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). This grueling experience molded him into a formidable competitor, ready for any challenge. 

By early 2016, the wrestling world buzzed with speculation about Styles. His electrifying debut came at the 2016 Royal Rumble, entering as the third participant and sending shockwaves through the wrestling universe. 

Unlike many NXT stars, Styles skipped developmental altogether. He was a seasoned veteran, and it showed. Within 10 months of his debut, he had climbed the mountaintop, capturing the prestigious WWE Championship.

2. Tazz- 2000

Despite lacking prior announcement or promotion, the New York crowd was highly energized and prepared for Taz’s inaugural appearance. The circumstances leading to Taz’s remarkable debut at the 2000 Royal Rumble formed a perfect storm of events. 

It is reported that Angle had a heart-to-heart conversation with his former boss, Paul Heyman, during their car journey to the event. Despite limited opportunities in WWE, Taz seized the moment during the WCW vs. WWE clash for the ECW title. In an exciting encounter, he defeated Mike Awesome, securing the ECW title and adding a memorable chapter to his wrestling career.

3. Vader- 1996

Big Van Vader known as The Mastodon, left a trail of destruction in his wake. After a dramatic exit from WCW, he stomped his way “Up North” to WWE. While his reign of terror wasn’t quite what everyone expected, Vader’s 1996 Royal Rumble debut was nothing short of legendary as he entered the ring like a bull and tossed up opponents aside with his signature Vader Bomb. 

Vader’s dominance was so overwhelming that it drew Monsoon- the then-WWE president came out of his usual role. With a stern expression and a wave of his hand, Monsoon disqualified Vader, putting an end to his destructive streak. 

It was a shocking moment, marking the first time Monsoon had directly impacted a Royal Rumble match. Even though his WWE run didn’t quite live up to the initial hype, Vader’s Royal Rumble debut remains etched in history.

4. Ronda Rousey- 2018

The first-ever Women’s Royal Rumble was buzzing with excitement, and even more so with rumors of a certain “Baddest Woman on the Planet” making her WWE debut. Whispers of Ronda Rousey signing with the company swirled around the arena, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats. 

Just as the last competitor enters the ring and the Rumble officially begins, a familiar tune pierces through the arena as Ronda Rousey, draped in the legendary Roddy Piper leather jacket emerges from the curtain sending shockwaves through the crowd. But Rousey doesn’t immediately jump into the fray. 

Instead, she waits until the dust settles and the winner, Asuka, is crowned. Standing tall between the Raw and Smackdown Women’s Champions, Asuka basks in her glory and that’s when Rousey steps into the ring. It was one of the most iconic entries in Women’s Royal Rumble.

5. Lacey Evans- 2019

Upon transitioning to the main roster, Lacey Evans marked her in-ring debut by entering as the first participant in the 2019 Royal Rumble. She showcased an impressive performance, lasting nearly half the duration of the match before being eliminated by Charlotte Flair. This display caught the attention of fans and the higher-ups in the industry. 

Unfortunately, despite the positive reception, there seemed to be a lack of clear direction for her character. Regrettably, it took Lacey Evans a considerable amount of time to recognize that perhaps the wrestling business wasn’t the right fit for her after all.