#2 Velveteen Dream
I mentioned Roderick Strong getting met with a returning star in the Royal Rumble match earlier, that star is Velveteen Dream. He hasn't been seen on WWE programming since getting 'attacked' by the Undisputed Era backstage, in October.
Dream has been dealing with a back injury for a few months but could be cleared in time for the Royal Rumble if he isn't already. The real-life Patrick Clark has some unfinished business with the stable, particularly Strong, who won the North American Championship from him.
If Velveteen Dream does return at the Royal Rumble match, it would be a pretty sweet moment. He has spoken about wanting to move to the main roster in the past, so he could wet his feet with an impressive showing at the Minute Maid Park.
Aside from eliminating Roderick Strong, Dream could also have some mouth-watering interactions with Superstars like Roman Reigns, as well as old foes like Aleister Black. His return pop would also be huge.