Sami Zayn disclosed on the 5 Oct 2024 episode of *Raw Recap* that his loss to Drew McIntyre at the 2024 Royal Rumble on 28 Jan deeply unsettled his confidence in ever capturing the WWE Championship, a doubt he only overcame by winning the Undisputed title at Night of Champions in Riyadh.
What happened at the Royal Rumble?
On 28 Jan 2024, Zayn entered the 30‑man Royal Rumble with a clear goal: secure the championship opportunity that the winner receives. He lasted until the final minutes before Drew McIntyre eliminated him, handing Zayn a defeat that he later described as “the hardest loss” of his career. The elimination came just weeks after Zayn’s emotional showdown with Roman Reigns in Montreal, making the Rumble loss feel like a second, more crushing setback.
Why the loss mattered for Zayn’s mindset?
Zayn explained that the Rumble loss sparked a rare moment of self‑doubt. He said he never questioned his talent, but the elimination made him wonder if his window to become champion was closing. The feeling lingered backstage for months, affecting his demeanor and fueling frustration. He also noted that fans began to lose interest in his “underdog” narrative, fearing the story was losing its spark.
How Zayn turned the setback into a title win
Despite the lingering doubt, Zayn kept his focus on the ring. At Night of Champions on 2 Oct 2024 in Riyadh, he entered a Triple Threat match against Cody Rhodes and Gunther. In a surprise finish, Zayn pinned Gunther to claim his first world title, ending the “underdog” saga with the championship gold. The victory lifted the weight of the earlier loss, allowing him to see the Rumble defeat as a catalyst rather than a career‑ending event.
What does this mean for Zayn’s future?
Zayn’s candid admission adds depth to his champion persona. He now carries the memory of the Rumble loss as a reminder of how close he came, which could drive his storytelling on‑air. With the Undisputed WWE Championship around his waist, Zayn is positioned to headline major events and continue feuding with top stars like Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre. The next chapters will test whether his renewed confidence translates into sustained dominance or if new challenges will reignite the doubts that once haunted him.