Royal Rumble 2019: John Cena out of WWE match after suffering ankle injury with Brawn Strowman replacing him

John Cena has been ruled out of tonight's Royal Rumble with an ankle injury.

The 16-time world champion was due to take part in the 30-man event on Sunday but pulled out after injuring his ankle a fortnight ago.

It has been announced that Braun Strowman will instead replace Cena for the over-the-top contest in Phoenix, Arizona this evening.

Cena, who only made his return to the WWE last month, was a doubt in the run-up to the 32nd Royal Rumble after he was injured during a bout with Drew McIntyre.

A statement from the WWE said: "John Cena will not compete in the Men's Royal Rumble Match tonight due to his ankle injury.

"Cena first sustained the left ankle injury during the main event of the Jan. 14 episode of Raw.

“In that match, the 16-time World Champion faced Finn Balor, Baron Corbin and Drew McIntyre for the right to challenge Brock Lesnar for the Universal Championship at the WWE Royal Rumble event.”

Hollywood star Cena, who has won the Royal Rumble twice before, appeared to injure his ankle when McIntyre trapped him in an ankle lock submission hold.

Cena was a favourite to win and appeared on pre-show promotional material in America but had to withdraw after not recovering in time.