Among the surprises slated for this Saturday's Royal Rumble pay-per-view, the Women's Rumble might include a familiar name. According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com, Nia Jax is rumored to be making an appearance and among the 20 names WWE has not yet announced as participants for the battle royal.

Randall Ortman of Cageside Seats writes, "While he couldn’t confirm it, PW Insider’s Mike Johnson has heard from several people backstage at WWE who expect Nia Jax to be a part of the women’s Royal Rumble match this weekend." It would be an interesting development if true because Jax wasn't exactly complimentary of WWE after her release and there's been talk that she's not entirely keen on getting back into the wrestling business. It's not clear if the latter is true, but should it be, that will raise questions about what type of appearance this will be for WWE, if she does, in fact, return.

Nia Jax Raw Women's Champion Cropped

Triple H has been bringing back female talent for his women's division on a regular basis. At one time, Jax was the dominant force on the women's roster, but there were rumors that she wasn't often safe in the ring, critiques that she wasn't among the most gifted in-ring performers and there was a very public in-ring issue between herself and Charlotte Flair on a live episode of WWE programming. The issue was said to be overblown, but Jax had her share of doubters.

Related: WWE Royal Rumble 2023 Event Hub

A Surprise One-Time Deal?

If this is a one-time thing, it could be a fun moment in the Rumble that is sure to draw attention from the WWE Universe. That said, if she returns on a new contract, the opinions will be varied. She could be a big addition to the women's roster, but not everyone will be thrilled to see her return.

The Royal Rumble is only two days away and there are a ton of open slots in the women's match. Jax might not be the only big return.

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