One of WWE's most prestigious events takes place this Saturday in Indianapolis.
The road to WrestleMania kicks off this Saturday when WWE presents the Royal Rumble in Indianapolis. One of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year, this year's Rumble promises plenty of excitement.
As always, the card will feature both a men's and a women's Royal Rumble match, where the victors will earn the right to challenge any champion at WrestleMania, taking place on April 19-20 in Las Vegas.
To win, a competitor must be the last one remaining in the ring after all others have been thrown over the top rope and onto the floor.
Last year, Bayley and Cody Rhodes took home the Rumble victories. Bayley would go on to capture the WWE Women’s Championship against Iyo Sky at WrestleMania, while Cody finally completed his journey in an epic showdown with Roman Reigns, full of drama and run-ins. This year’s winners will have the opportunity to challenge for either the Undisputed WWE Championship, currently held by Rhodes, or the World Heavyweight Championship, held by Gunther. On the women’s side, the winner will challenge for either the Women’s World Championship, currently held by Rhea Ripley, or the WWE Women’s Championship, held by Tiffany Stratton.
This year’s Royal Rumble features just two additional matches beyond the Rumble bouts, but both are highly anticipated.
Cody Rhodes will defend his title against former friend-turned-rival Kevin Owens in a high-stakes ladder match, building on months of growing tension. Meanwhile, WWE Tag Team Champions #DIY will defend their titles against former champions Motor City Machine Guns in a two-out-of-three falls match that promises to be a show-stealer.
Let’s break down the CBS Sports experts' predictions for each match on Saturday’s card, set to begin at 6 p.m. ET.
WWE Royal Rumble 2024 Predictions
Men’s Royal Rumble Match:
Initially, I was convinced John Cena would win the Rumble, but after Monday night’s events, particularly CM Punk’s confrontation with Cody Rhodes, it’s clear that Punk vs. Rhodes is the match WWE should be building toward. Cena's momentum has stalled since his return, making it hard to stay invested. I think WWE will ultimately deliver a classic Punk vs. Cena showdown at the end of the Rumble, with Punk claiming the victory and Cena making his way to Elimination Chamber.
Pick: CM Punk wins the Royal Rumble — Brent Brookhouse
I woke up thinking Cena would win, but now I’m second-guessing myself. A straight path to WrestleMania might be too easy for the struggling veteran seeking one last moment of glory. Though Orton isn’t listed for the Rumble, I have a feeling he’ll surprise everyone with a victory, setting up a major showdown with Rhodes. He won’t tie Cena’s world title record, but he can tie “Stone Cold” Steve Austin’s three Rumble wins.
Pick: Randy Orton wins the Royal Rumble — Shakiel Mahjouri
Women’s Royal Rumble Match:
Charlotte Flair is such an obvious choice for the biggest WrestleMania matches that it’s hard to ignore her here. A potential match with Tiffany Stratton feels like a passing-of-the-torch moment, even if Flair could remain a top star for as long as she wants. Their similar but distinct styles would create a fantastic storyline leading to a huge WrestleMania showdown.
Pick: Charlotte Flair wins the Royal Rumble — Brent Brookhouse
The field for the women’s Rumble isn’t full of standouts, but booking Flair vs. Stratton at WrestleMania would elevate Stratton's profile. Flair is reliable for delivering at big events, and she could very well return from injury victorious.
Pick: Charlotte Flair wins the Royal Rumble — Shakiel Mahjouri
Undisputed WWE Championship – Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Kevin Owens (Ladder Match):
I’d love to see Owens pull off an upset here. It would add an exciting twist to the story and would be tough to watch Owens lose three straight title matches. But WWE is clearly invested in Rhodes, so I think the safe bet is that he retains.
Pick: Cody Rhodes retains the title — Shakiel Mahjouri
Though predicting wrestling is a bit of a gamble, I’m going with my heart on this one. WWE hasn’t shied away from title losses followed by quick regains, so I think Owens could win on Saturday, with Rhodes reclaiming the title ahead of WrestleMania. A ladder match offers plenty of opportunities for interference, which makes a Rhodes loss feel less permanent. That said, WWE's long-term booking doesn't always follow that narrative, so I believe Rhodes will hold on to the title.
Pick: Cody Rhodes retains the title — Brent Brookhouse
WWE Tag Team Championship – #DIY (c) vs. Motor City Machine Guns (Two-Out-Of-Three Falls Match):
It's still too soon to take the titles off #DIY. WWE has done a great job of letting these two top-tier teams shine, and I expect the Motor City Machine Guns to come close but fall short due to some underhanded tactics.
Pick: #DIY retain the titles — Shakiel Mahjouri
I agree that it feels early for #DIY to lose the titles, but this match is sure to be a classic. The third fall could involve outside interference, with Pretty Deadly likely tipping the scales in the champions’ favor. Even if the outcome seems predictable, this will be a great match.
Pick: #DIY retain the titles — Brent Brookhouse
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