5 Superstars who shocked the WWE Universe by entering the Royal Rumble match at Number 1

The Royal Rumble is one of the toughest and most unpredictable bouts in WWE history. However, it becomes even tougher for a superstar who enters at No.1, but they have also gone on to perform spectacular performances even with a big disadvantage.

WWE Royal Rumble 2025 is the upcoming PLE for the company, presenting the 38th edition of the historic show. Over the years, fans have seen some shocking moments in regard to the Rumble matches, especially witnessing certain superstars enter at the No.1 spot.

This is considered as the most disadvantageous position in the Rumble match. Yet, it has produced moments that have been remembered for the ages. Here are the top five WWE stars who shocked the fans by entering No.1 in the Royal Rumble match:

5) Triple H

Triple H has had a rich history regarding the Royal Rumble match. The Game is a two-time winner of the match, with his second win making him the WWE Champion in 2016. However, ten years before, Triple H entered the match at #1 and put up an impressive performance. He lasted for 60:16 and scored five eliminations in the process.

4) Sasha Banks

Sasha Banks entered the first-ever Women’s Royal Rumble match in 2018 at the No.1 spot. The former Boss of WWE was the true Ironwoman of the match, lasting an impressive 54:46 and eliminating three superstars. She made it to the final four women before being eliminated by The Bella Twins.

3) Rhea Ripley

Rhea Ripley created history at the 2023 Royal Rumble event by becoming the first woman to win the Rumble match from the #1 spot, which came as a huge shocker for the event. Mami displayed an excellent and dominant showing in the match that saw her score seven eliminations and lasting for 61:08.

2) Edge

Despite his status as a WWE veteran, Edge shocked the audience with his performance at the 2021 Royal Rumble event. The Rated R superstar entered at No.1 and lasted 58:30 with three eliminations under his belt and was going to last eliminate Randy Orton to win his second Royal Rumble match.

1) Gunther

Gunther put up a performance for the ages in the 2023 Royal Rumble match. The Ring General started the match from the #1 spot and made it to the final two, eliminating five superstars and spending 71:40, which became the new record for the longest time spent in a Rumble match. Despite not winning the match, Gunther’s performance became memorable.



Also read: Biggest Royal Rumble Controversies and What Really Happened