Recently, Tony Khan, President of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), openly discussed the departure of Will Hobbs, formerly known as Powerhouse Hobbs, who left AEW after six years to join WWE. Hobbs’ AEW contract expired in January 2026, and he declined to renew it. Shortly afterward, he made a surprising WWE debut at the 2026 Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia, performing under the new ring name Royce Keys.
In an interview with Josh Martinez of Z100, Khan acknowledged Hobbs’ significant contributions to AEW, celebrating his achievements as a former TNT Champion and World Trios Champion. Khan expressed goodwill toward Hobbs despite the move.
“Well, I think Hobbs had a great run here in (All Elite Wrestling). He started wrestling here in Jacksonville, had some great matches and became a champion in AEW. He’s a former TNT Champion, former World Trios Champion. I’ll always wish him all the best,” said Khan [H/T: Drainmaker on X]
Positive Outlook from Tony Khan on Britt Baker’s Return
Britt Baker, once AEW’s Women’s World Champion, has not appeared on AEW programming since November 2024, fueling rumors about her relationship with the company. However, Tony Khan gave fans a hopeful update regarding her status during an interview on The Battleground Podcast. Khan praised Baker’s talent and influence within AEW and expressed hope she would return, though he declined to provide a timeline for her comeback.
“Britt’s somebody I really like and respect a lot. Britt’s still somebody very highly regarded and respected here in AEW,” he continued. “So I would expect to see Britt back in AEW. I just don’t want to say when,” said Khan. [H/T: Ringside News]
Chris Jericho Launches Music Tour Amid Uncertainty About Wrestling Career
Speculation around Chris Jericho’s future in professional wrestling has intensified following reports that his AEW contract expired at the conclusion of 2025. Fans eagerly awaited his appearance at either the 2026 Royal Rumble or the initial episode of Monday Night RAW, but he did not show up at either event. Instead, Jericho shifted focus to his music career, announcing a new tour.
Jericho, also known as Le Champion, revealed plans for his band Kuarantine, an 80s KISS tribute group, to tour in April and July 2026. This musical venture complements his main band, Fozy, which is scheduled for performances across the United Kingdom in February and the United States in May. This announcement marks a clear emphasis on his music career during a time of wrestling uncertainty.
AEW Prepares for Myron Reed’s In-Ring Debut
As AEW continues to expand its roster into 2026, the promotion is introducing new talents to the Jacksonville-based company. One notable addition is Myron Reed from The Rascalz, joining tag partners Zachary Wentz and Dezmond Xavier. Wentz and Xavier recently debuted on AEW Collision, defeating the team CRU, while Reed is earmarked for his first match soon.
Myron Reed is scheduled to make his AEW debut next week on Dynamite in a three-way tag team #1 contenders match. Partnered with Xavier, Reed will face The Gates of Agony and The Young Bucks. The victorious team will earn a future championship opportunity against current AEW Tag Team Champions FTR, raising the stakes of this high-profile contest.
Wrestling Landscape Shifting as Key Stars Move and Focus Evolves
The latest developments in AEW underscore the evolving nature of the wrestling scene. With Will Hobbs transitioning to WWE, Britt Baker’s future still uncertain, and Chris Jericho prioritizing his musical pursuits, the Jacksonville-based promotion is experiencing a period of change and adjustment. Myron Reed’s upcoming debut signals AEW’s continuous efforts to refresh its lineup and maintain fan interest.
Chris Jericho’s announcement of the Kuarantine tour amid his wrestling contract’s expiration suggests a pivot in his career, raising questions about his long-term plans in the ring. Tony Khan’s comments convey a cautious but optimistic tone toward retaining top talent and welcoming back key figures like Britt Baker. As 2026 progresses, AEW’s roster shifts and strategic choices will likely have a significant impact on its competition with WWE and the broader wrestling industry.
Tony Khan on Powerhouse Hobbs leaving AEW for WWE:
“Well, I think Hobbs had a great run here in AEW. He started wrestling here in Jacksonville, had some great matches and became a champion in AEW. He’s a former TNT Champion, former World Trios Champion. I’ll always wish him all… pic.twitter.com/o5D1Ni3ZOd
— Drainmaker (@TheDrainmaker) February 4, 2026
