WWE Royal Rumble to Air Condensed Version on ESPN

ESPN will broadcast a condensed version of the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble this Sunday, February 22nd, on its main broadcast channel. This move is part of a larger strategy to promote upcoming WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) and assess viewership for an over-the-air presentation of the product, according to WrestleVotes Radio.

Expanding WWE and ESPN Partnership

This broadcast follows a five-year domestic deal launched last September between WWE and ESPN, making all WWE premium live events available live on ESPN Unlimited, the network’s new direct-to-consumer streaming service. Breaking News reported on this partnership in August 2025.

Recent Royal Rumble Highlights

The most recent Royal Rumble event, held in Saudi Arabia, featured significant moments including Roman Reigns winning the men’s Rumble match and Liv Morgan winning the women’s Rumble match. Other notable events included Gunther retiring AJ Styles, and surprise appearances from Royce Keys, Brie Bella, El Gable Americano, as well as several NXT and AAA wrestlers.

Future Royal Rumble Plans

Looking ahead, WrestleVotes Radio also reported on February 5, 2026, that the 2027 WWE Royal Rumble is slated to return to the United States and be held in a domestic stadium. Wrestling News Co detailed this upcoming event.