When is WWE Royal Rumble 2018? UK time, date plus all matches and everything you need to know

Jonathan Bachman/AP for WWE
Jonathan Bachman/AP for WWE

The 31st annual Royal Rumble - one of the most anticipated events in the WWE calendar - is almost here.

Thirty men and 30 women will compete in two separate matches for a shot at the world titles.

It is the first time in history that women will take part in their own match.

The Royal Rumble has taken place since 1988 and marks the start of a series of events that end in WrestleMania on April 8.

Wrestling star John Cena (Jonathan Bachman/AP for WWE)
Wrestling star John Cena (Jonathan Bachman/AP for WWE)

When is the Royal Rumble 2018?

This year's event takes place on Sunday, January 28 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The main show will begin at 7pm ET (midnight GMT).

Who is taking part?

In the men's Royal Rumble, 12 entrants have been confirmed.

They are John Cena, Finn Balor, Randy Orton, Shinsuke Nakamura, Elias, Baron Corbin, Matt Hardy, Bray Wyatt, Aiden English, Rusev, Titus O'Neil and Apollo Crews.

Randy Orton will take part in the men's event (Steve Haag/Gallo Images/Getty Images)
Randy Orton will take part in the men's event (Steve Haag/Gallo Images/Getty Images)

Samoa Joe has been removed from the event because of a foot injury.

Meanwhile, for the women's match, 18 entrants are confirmed.

They are Asuka, Sasha Banks, Becky Lynch, Bayley, Nia Jax, Ruby Riott, Liv Morgan, Sarah Logan, Naomi, Natalya, Sonya Deville, Mandy Rose, Mickie James, Tamina Snuka, Lana, Carmella, Dana Brooke and Alicia Fox.

Superstar Sasha Banks (Lukas Schulze/Bongarts/Getty Images)
Superstar Sasha Banks (Lukas Schulze/Bongarts/Getty Images)

The two champions, Alexa Bliss and Charlotte, are yet to confirm their involvement while it has been rumoured that UFC star Ronda Rousey will take part.

Where can I watch?

The event is live on Sky Sports Box Office and the WWE Network.

What are the rules?

Thirty Superstars randomly pick numbers from one to thirty.

In that order, they enter the ring one at a time at consistent intervals.

Nia Jaxx is one of 18 women confirmed for the Royal Rumble (AFP/Getty Images)
Nia Jaxx is one of 18 women confirmed for the Royal Rumble (AFP/Getty Images)

Superstars are eliminated by being thrown over the top rope with both feet touching the floor.

The last man or woman standing will receive a Championship Match at WrestleMania.

What other events are taking place?

Other events include a triple threat match featuring champion Brock Lesnar vs. Braun Strowman vs. Kane for the Universal Championship

Also a handicap match featuring champion AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn for the WWE Championship.