5 key takeaways from WWE Royal Rumble 2022

#4. A Rowdy Royal Rumble victory leads to a Rowdy WrestleMania main event

In the final week leading up to the Royal Rumble, the rumor mill went into overdrive with reports indicating the surreal possibility of a Ronda Rousey return, who hadn't been seen on WWE TV since losing the RAW Women's Championship at WrestleMania 35.

Although the internet may have ruined the element of surprise, The Baddest Woman on the Planet came out to a raucous ovation as the 28th entrant. Her entry into the Women's Royal Rumble Match instantly made her the favorite to win. Rousey acted as a real game-changer, tearing through a slew of talented women.

The former RAW Women's Champion tossed over five women: Nikki A.S.H, Brie Bella, Natalya, Shotzi, and Charlotte Flair. Rousey's intense staredown with The Queen of WWE sent the live crowd into a frenzy. It was also refreshing to see The Baddest Woman on the Planet team up with Shayna Bazler.

The best part of her return is that it's only the beginning. Far from a one-off, Rousey has shaken up the entire women's division and added considerable depth. While nothing is official, it seems likely that her opponent at WrestleMania 38 will be Becky Lynch, a familiar foe that took her position at the top.

Given that WrestleMania will run for two nights, Rousey vs. Lynch, if it happens, will close out one of the evenings.