Royce Keys, known professionally as Powerhouse Hobbs, made a surprising entrance at the 2026 Royal Rumble event after deciding to leave All Elite Wrestling (AEW) due to increasing frustration with his position there. His transition to WWE reflects his desire for more structured opportunities to advance his wrestling career.
D-Von Dudley Explains Keys’ Frustration and WWE’s Advantage
During a recent episode of the DukeLovesRasslin podcast, wrestling veteran D-Von Dudley shared insights about Keys’ struggles in AEW. He said,
“He was very frustrated and very angry at times. I remember talking with him about that, because he didn’t feel like he got that structure in AEW.”
Dudley emphasized that while Keys had a strong start, the lack of organizational support held him back.
He added,
“He’s just getting started after a big debut. I also believe that with the right structure, he’ll come along great. I had his matches when he used to come to WWE as an extra. I worked with him and helped him, and he’s always given me credit for that. The great thing now is that he’s under WWE’s umbrella, so he’ll be able to get the structure that he needs.”
Dudley also noted that some wrestlers moving from AEW to WWE find themselves in a better place professionally.
“There are certain people who come from AEW to WWE and feel more content. They feel like they’re in a place where they should be, where they can learn what they need to do to take their career to the next level. And he’s going to do that.”
Rikishi Urged Keys to Pursue New Opportunities
Rikishi, known for his time in WWE under his ring name—which means sumo wrestler in Japanese—revealed that he encouraged Keys to make the leap away from AEW. Rikishi observed that while Keys’ time in AEW was comfortable, he was not being utilized to his full potential. He said,
“It was easy over there for him in AEW, but he wasn’t being used the right way… Take a chance. If you don’t take a chance, take a chance on yourself.”
Implications of Hobbs’ Move and Future Developments
Powerhouse Hobbs’ shift from AEW to WWE highlights a pattern of talent realignment as wrestlers seek better guidance and development opportunities. With WWE’s structured environment and support system, Keys is positioned to grow and refine his abilities further. This move also adds to ongoing discussions about the differing creative and managerial approaches between AEW and WWE.
For WWE, Hobbs’ arrival offers fresh potential to bolster their roster ahead of major events such as WrestleMania 42, where plans remain flexible. Meanwhile, AEW continues to adapt to talent departures while pursuing new signings, as industry insiders watch closely how these movements will influence wrestling’s competitive landscape.
