There have been rumblings regarding the potential return of former WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton this weekend at the Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Stratton has been noticeably absent from WWE programming for months, leading to widespread speculation about her status. This is according to a new report from Mike Johnson of PWInsider Elite.
While her absence was initially thought by some to be a creative reset following her title loss, new information suggests otherwise. Dave Meltzer reported in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter that a physical setback is the primary reason for Stratton’s current hiatus from the ring. The report confirms that Stratton has been out of action with an injury, though the specific nature of the ailment has not been publicly disclosed by the company.
This time away began immediately after she lost the WWE Women’s Championship to Jade Cargill at Saturday Night’s Main Event on November 1, 2025. That match was surprisingly brief, lasting less than six minutes, which in hindsight may have been a result of the injury occurring or being aggravated during the contest. Since that night, Stratton has not stepped foot in a WWE ring, leaving a void in the SmackDown women’s division where she had been a focal point for the majority of 2025.
Despite being sidelined, Stratton has remained active on social media, keeping her name in the conversation among the WWE Universe. She has posted several photos and videos teasing her eventual comeback, ensuring that fans have not forgotten about “Tiffy Time.” Her viral posts have kept anticipation high, with many hoping she would be cleared in time for the start of WrestleMania season.
If reports are accurate and Stratton is indeed in Riyadh this weekend, her inclusion in the Women’s Royal Rumble match would instantly make her one of the favorites to win. Stratton had a breakout year in 2025, capturing the Money in the Bank briefcase and successfully cashing in to become champion. A return at the Royal Rumble would offer her the perfect platform to get revenge against Jade Cargill or target a new champion entirely.
