Powerhouse Hobbs, the former AEW TNT Champion, has reportedly turned down a contract renewal offer from All Elite Wrestling, opting instead to pursue a deal with WWE. This development took place as Hobbs’ contract expired on January 14, 2026, surprising AEW’s president Tony Khan, who was unaware of the star’s decision to leave.
The 34-year-old wrestler has been part of AEW since 2020 and was recently involved with Samoa Joe’s faction, The Opps. Hobbs and his partners held the World Trios Championship until they lost the titles to Adam Page and JetSpeed, consisting of Kevin Knight and Mike Bailey, on a pre-taped episode of AEW Collision.
AEW’s Continued Use of Hobbs Reflects Khan’s Unawareness of Departure
Despite his contract expiration, Hobbs remained featured on AEW television, indicating that Tony Khan was not informed about his plans to leave. Wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer from Wrestling Observer Radio revealed that Khan was optimistic about retaining Hobbs, showing confidence in the negotiations even though the wrestler had decided to move on.
Potential for Hobbs to Return to AEW If WWE Plans Don’t Materialize
Meltzer also noted that Tony Khan holds Hobbs in high regard and would be open to bringing him back if things do not work out in WWE. Khan appreciated Hobbs’ professionalism and commitment, which was evident as Hobbs was never removed from AEW programming despite contract uncertainties.
“Worst comes to worst, if it doesn’t work out, they will always take him back, AEW will always take him back. Tony [Khan] liked him and everything. He was professional. Tony didn’t take him off TV, so that tells me he didn’t know he was going, but as I said, WWE, they were pretty confident they’ve had him for months, really,” he said.
— Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer Radio
Hobbs’ Previous Wrestling Experience with WWE and Future Prospects
Before solidifying his role in AEW, Powerhouse Hobbs, wrestling under his real name Will Hobbs, had brief WWE experience. He faced Baron Corbin in a dark match after the October 11, 2016, SmackDown episode. With the WWE creative team led by Triple H now reportedly preparing for Hobbs’ arrival, fans will be keen to observe how his career develops within the new environment.
