<P> Nine matches were contested at the event , including three on the pre-show . In the main event , Asuka won the first - ever women 's Royal Rumble match , which was also the second women 's match to main event a WWE pay - per - view , and the first to main event one of WWE 's `` Big Four '' pay - per - views . The men 's Royal Rumble match was won by Shinsuke Nakamura . Other prominent matches included Brock Lesnar retaining the Universal Championship in a triple threat match against Braun Strowman and Kane , and AJ Styles retained the WWE Championship against Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in a handicap match . The event was also notable for the surprise appearance of former UFC star Ronda Rousey following the women 's match , officially confirming that she had signed full - time with WWE . </P>
winner of the women 's royal rumble match
Asuka