The WWE scene was much different following the 2026 Royal Rumble. And a monster debut surprise rattled the industry. The wrestler once known as AEW’s Powerhouse Hobbs has joined WWE. In a new name, he entered the men’s Rumble match 14th. The powerhouse is now officially introduced as Royce Keys.
Immediate Rumble Impact
His impact was both immediate and physical. Keys demonstrated his signature raw power during the match. He scored a massive elimination by throwing out former champion Damian Priest. This move announced his presence with absolute authority. His own elimination required a combined effort from two other giants. Bronson Reed and The Vision finally managed to oust the debuting star.
The stunning career move triggered immediate reactions across the wrestling world. Numerous AEW talents publicly acknowledged their former colleague’s new home. Their social media responses created a significant online buzz. Brodie Lee’s wife, Amanda Huber, had some very nice words for her friend. She shared, “THAT MY BEST FRIEND LETS GOOOOOOO.”
Other AEW stars also voiced their reactions. Darius Martin of Top Flight commented on the surprise appearance. Notable names like Wardlow and Kevin Knight also reacted publicly. The reaction from Knight is particularly noteworthy. He pinned Hobbs in his final AEW match on January 14th, 2026. That match saw Knight win the AEW World Trios Championship.
From AEW to WWE
, now Keys), a major AEW talent from 2020 until 2026. He won several championships during his service there. His accolades include the TNT Championship in 2023. He was also the AEW World Trios Champion. WWE’s interest in the athlete was a long-standing open secret. The 35-year-old powerhouse has now finalized that move. He joins the Stamford-based promotion after negotiations with AEW concluded.
This debut marks a pivotal acquisition for WWE’s roster. Royce Keys brings immediate credibility and a proven track record. Fans are now speculating intensely about his next move. Which brand will he appear on next? Who will be his first major rival? The Royal Rumble surprise has successfully launched his new chapter. It sets the stage for a potentially dominant run on wrestling’s biggest stage.
