WWE's Planned Royal Rumble Winner Unchanged Despite CM Punk's Return

CM Punk is one of the favourites to win the 2024 men's Royal Rumble, especially after he declared for the match on Monday night, but the 45-year-old might not be the last man standing on January 27. 

According to SEScoops, WWE figured out the 2024 men's Royal Rumble winner three months ago and the planned winner had not changed as of this week. Nothing is said to be completely "locked in", however, and even the plans for Roman Reigns' match at WrestleMania 40 could change if circumstances call for an alteration to be made. 

Reports have indicated for several months that Roman Reigns will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 40 in a rematch from the 2023 edition of the Show of Shows. Rhodes is the only other talent to have declared for the Royal Rumble so far.

CM Punk has been back in WWE since Survivor Series in late November. He began a feud with Seth Rollins on Monday Night Raw in a fiery confrontation. The expectation is their programme will continue until WrestleMania 40 where CM Punk will challenge Rollins for the World Heavyweight Championship. 

The Royal Rumble will emanate from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. WWE are hoping to break a Rumble record for the event.