Top 5 greatest shock entrants in Royal Rumble history

#1 John Cena (2008)

The biggest shocker in Rumble history.

As stunning as Edge's 2010 was, John Cena showing up at #30 in the 2008 Royal Rumble match is the greatest surprise return in the history of this great concept. Initially given a timetable of 6-9 months to recover from a torn pectoral muscle, Cena returned in four months, painting the Superman picture on his already unbeatable persona.

Nobody expected him to show up, least of all Triple H, who entered the match at 29. Everything about this entire ordeal was perfect. From the shock value shared among the commentators, wrestlers, and fans to the slow opening of the Madison Square Garden door, nothing might ever top Cena's return in 2008.

The entire crowd cheered for him, at least in that brief moment. How could you not? Even the most avid of John Cena haters would have applauded his gargantuan effort to make a return like that. The final exchange with Triple H and Batista will also be remembered, particularly with the former.

Cena eliminated The Game last to win the match and seal his ticket to WrestleMania 24 in absolutely shocking fashion. Nobody knows how he did it, they can just stare open-mouthed at the legend that is John Cena.

Alongside some of his most famous triumphs, his return and victory in the 2008 Rumble at MSG remains one of his greatest moments. It truly is the greatest surprise return in the rich and storied history of the Royal Rumble Match.