The Men's Royal Rumble featured a mix of debuts and returns. The first match debut came from Penta, who kicked off the action alongside fellow luchador Rey Mysterio. Shortly after that, YouTube sensation IShowSpeed emerged as an unexpected replacement for Akira Tozawa. In doing so, Speed eliminated Otis before taking a thunderous spear from Intercontinental Champion Bron Breakker. "Thanks for coming. This is huge for us," 16-time world champion John Cena later told a neck-brace-wearing Speed backstage.
Elsewhere, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles marked his in-ring return with a nod to his previous Royal Rumble debut, which took place nine years ago. "I didn't know what kind of emotions I was going to have in 2016. Here I am in 2025 coming out in the same blue gear that I wore. Whatever experience comes my way [this year], I'm just going to enjoy it," he said before making his entrance.
The final three of the 2025 match consisted of John Cena, Jey Uso, and former United States Champion Logan Paul. According to Paul, his eventual elimination by Cena "stings" because he trusted him. At the same time, Paul felt honored as he admires the WWE legend.
In a surprising moment, Uso eliminated Cena to win the Men's Royal Rumble. Like many WWE fans, commentator Pat McAfee noted that he was especially proud of Uso, as he's come a long way from being a tag team performer to now securing himself a major singles match at WrestleMania 41. "Is this guy about to be world champion? I think the WWE Universe will say 'Yeet!'" McAfee said while walking backstage after show.
