Former AEW Standout Debuts as Royce Keys at Royal Rumble 2026

Powerhouse Hobbs reintroduced under new name in surprise appearance

Summary

– Powerhouse Hobbs made his WWE debut during the 2026 Royal Rumble

– He entered at number 14 and was rebranded as Royce Keys

– Hobbs turned down an AEW offer before joining WWE

A familiar face made a major transition during the 2026 Royal Rumble event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as former AEW star Powerhouse Hobbs officially debuted in WWE under a new identity.

Hobbs entered the Royal Rumble match at the number 14 position, immediately drawing attention as the broadcast acknowledged his past before revealing his new WWE name, Royce Keys. The presentation marked a clear reset for the powerhouse performer as he begins a new chapter.

The Royal Rumble has long served as a platform for surprise appearances and new beginnings, and Hobbs’ debut fit that tradition perfectly. His arrival added another layer of intrigue to an already eventful night.

Before joining WWE, Hobbs was a prominent figure in AEW and held the TNT Championship during his run. Reports indicate that AEW attempted to retain him with a significant contract offer, which Hobbs ultimately declined in favor of moving to WWE.

Hobbs also reached out to Jim Ross ahead of the event, signaling that his Royal Rumble appearance had been in motion behind the scenes. Now competing as Royce Keys, his debut sets the stage for what could be a major run in the future.