Swerve Strickland has sent a message to WWE following a significant signing. Powerhouse Hobbs, a former AEW champion, officially joined WWE and appeared in the Royal Rumble match over the past weekend, prompting Strickland to comment publicly.
During the Royal Rumble event, Powerhouse Hobbs made an impressive debut, showcasing his skills in the high-profile match. Afterward, Sarath Ton, WWE’s costume designer, shared a photo with Hobbs on Instagram. Strickland responded to this post by urging WWE to treat Hobbs well, highlighting the significance of the new acquisition.
Powerhouse Hobbs’ Decision to Join WWE After Turning Down AEW Offer
Powerhouse Hobbs had a strong presence in All Elite Wrestling, capturing both the TNT Championship and the World Trios Championship during his tenure. As his contract approached its end, AEW’s owner Tony Khan expressed interest in retaining Hobbs. Nonetheless, Hobbs was not inclined to stay with the Jacksonville-based promotion.
According to Dave Meltzer from Wrestling Observer Radio, Hobbs was presented with a lucrative five-year contract offer from AEW but chose not to accept it. Meltzer explained that Hobbs had already made up his mind to leave for WWE even before negotiations concluded.
“He (Powerhouse Hobbs / Royce Keys) got a 5 year offer from AEW, I think that in the negotiations it became kinda clear (that he was going to WWE). The offer was a very good offer. — It was not a top 10 offer in the company or anything like that, but a good offer. I don’t really know much more, I don’t know what the WWE offer was. I don’t think he was very interested in the AEW offer, I think he already made up his mind. In WWE for a long time, their belief was as soon his contract’s over, he’s gone.” – Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer Radio
While details remain under wraps, the specific WWE brand to which Hobbs will be assigned has yet to be confirmed. His arrival marks a notable shift in the wrestling landscape, intensifying competition between major promotions.
Potential Impact on WWE and Wrestling Market
With Powerhouse Hobbs joining WWE, the company gains a proven competitor with championship experience from AEW, likely enhancing WWE’s roster depth. The public backing from Swerve Strickland, who urged WWE to “treat em well,” indicates the community’s interest in how WWE will manage this new talent.
This transition signifies broader implications for talent movement between wrestling promotions, showing WWE’s continued willingness to invest in accomplished performers. Fans and industry watchers will be closely observing Hobbs’ role and opportunities within WWE as the story unfolds.
“He (Powerhouse Hobbs / Royce Keys) got a 5 year offer from AEW, I think that in the negotiations it became kinda clear (that he was going to WWE).
The offer was a very good offer. — It was not a top 10 offer in the company or anything like that, but a good offer. I don’t really… pic.twitter.com/OiRoKG0EwW
— WrestlePurists (@WrestlePurists) February 1, 2026
