The highly anticipated WWE Royal Rumble 2026 is set to take place on January 31, 2026, at the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This year, the event will feature a shift in viewing options, primarily focusing on streaming rather than traditional cable broadcasts. Fans in the United States will be able to watch the event live via the ESPN App, marking a significant change in how viewers access WWE programming.
The main show will begin at 2 p.m. ET, with additional coverage available earlier in the day. WWE’s official guide confirms that all Premium Live Events, including the Royal Rumble, will be streamed live on the ESPN App in the US. This new broadcasting arrangement began as part of a deal that was formalized in September 2025.
Streaming Options for WWE Royal Rumble 2026
For viewers in the United States, accessing the Royal Rumble is straightforward. To live stream the event, fans will need the ESPN App along with an ESPN Unlimited plan. Here’s how to prepare for the event:
1. Download the ESPN App on your preferred device, whether it be a smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or streaming device.
2. Sign in using your eligible ESPN subscription.
3. Navigate to the WWE Premium Live Events hub to find the Royal Rumble stream.
This setup ensures fans are ready to catch all the action, including pre-event coverage, which ESPN will provide.
For audiences outside the United States, the viewing options differ. In many international markets, including the United Kingdom and most parts of Europe, WWE Premium Live Events will be available on Netflix. This partnership allows fans across these regions to enjoy the Royal Rumble without needing a cable subscription.
Event Details and Expectations
The Royal Rumble is one of WWE’s most celebrated events, attracting numerous fans each year. The venue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, promises to provide a spectacular backdrop for the wrestling action. As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see which superstars will compete for a chance to headline WrestleMania.
With the shift to streaming, WWE is adapting to changing viewing habits, catering to an audience that increasingly prefers on-demand access to live events. The integration of platforms like ESPN and Netflix highlights a strategic move toward digital engagement, aligning with broader trends in the entertainment industry.
As January 31 approaches, fans are encouraged to prepare for an unforgettable evening filled with drama, athleticism, and the unique spectacle that is the Royal Rumble. Whether watching in the US via ESPN or internationally through Netflix, viewers are set for an exciting experience that showcases the best of professional wrestling.
