At the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble Premium Live Event, Royce Keys, formerly known as Powerhouse Hobbs in AEW, appeared for the first time in WWE as a participant in the men’s Royal Rumble match. AEW President Tony Khan spoke about Keys’ transition, highlighting the significant impact Hobbs had during his time in AEW.
Tony Khan reflected,
“Well, I think Powerhouse Hobbs had a great run here in AEW,”
he said.
“He started wrestling here in Jacksonville, where I am now, and had some great matches, and became a champion in AEW. We were just talking about the TNT Championship. He’s a former TNT Champion, former World Trios Champion. I’ll always wish him all the best.”
From Powerhouse Hobbs to Royce Keys: A Rebranding
Keys’ appearance at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia ended weeks of speculation about his future after his AEW contract expired in January 2026. Reports confirmed that he declined a robust renewal offer from AEW, opting instead to join WWE. His debut introduced a new identity, with the titantron briefly displaying his former name before revealing “Royce Keys.”
The new name carries deep personal meaning: “Royce” honors his youngest son, and “Keys” is his late mother’s maiden name. This fresh branding symbolizes a new chapter for the 34-year-old as he seeks to establish himself among WWE’s roster.
Immediate Impact in WWE’s Royal Rumble
Entering the Royal Rumble match at number 14, Keys quickly made his mark by eliminating former World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest. His run ended when Bronson Reed eliminated him, but the strong performance in Riyadh signaled a promising WWE debut and set the stage for his pursuit toward WrestleMania 42.
During his five years with AEW, Keys was a key member of several factions, including Team Taz, QTV, and the Don Callis Family, which helped him build a substantial profile in professional wrestling.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Tony Khan’s praise highlights not only Keys’ achievements, such as his reigns as TNT Champion and World Trios Champion but also the foundations laid throughout his AEW tenure, beginning in Jacksonville. Keys’ move to WWE represents a significant shift in his career path and carries potential influence on both promotions’ evolving landscapes.
