We’re counting down to the Royal Rumble: a variation of the
traditional Battle Royal match with a total of 30 competitors. Two WWE
Superstars start in the ring, every 90 seconds thereafter another Superstar
enters. A Superstar is eliminated when they’re thrown over the top rope and
both feet touch the floor. Traditionally, the last remaining Superstar is
guaranteed a championship opportunity at WrestleMania versus the current WWE
World Heavyweight Champion. On Jan. 24th the Champion is required to defend his
title in the Royal Rumble match; the first time its winner claims gold since
Rumble ’92. | By Mr. Joe Walker
WWE Superstar: Kevin Owens
Height: 6'
Weight: 266 lbs.
From: Marieville, Quebec, Canada
Height: 6'
Weight: 266 lbs.
From: Marieville, Quebec, Canada
There’s a short list of favorites to win this year’s Royal
Rumble match. Kevin Owens is on it. His intentions have been clear since
joining WWE; he’s come to be the best wrestler in the company, and the savvy,
outspoken vet has no issue owning that claim already. Should he enter and win
the Rumble match, claiming the WWE World Heavyweight title, the gold around his
waist would legitimize his boasts. As champion, Owens and career rival Sami
Zayn could ignite the type of title feud WWE hasn’t experienced since Triple H
and Shawn Michaels. He could also close Mania in a rematch with Reigns, or
defending against the likes of The Rock or Brock Lesnar.
Royal
Rumble Winners: Jim Duggan (1988), Big John Studd (’89), Hulk Hogan (’90, ’91),
Ric Flair (’92), Yokozuna (’93), Bret Hart/Lex Luger (’94), Shawn Michaels
(’95, ’96), Steve Austin (’97, ’98), Mr. McMahon (’99), The Rock (2000), Steve
Austin (’01), Triple H (’02), Brock Lesnar (’03), Chris Benoit (’04), Batista
(’05), Rey Mysterio (’06), The Undertaker (’07), John Cena (’08), Randy Orton
(’09), Edge (’10), Alberto Del Rio (’11), Sheamus (’12), John Cena ('13),
Batista (’14), Roman Reigns (’15)