Formerly known as Powerhouse Hobbs, wrestler Royce Keys made a surprising debut with WWE during the 2026 Royal Rumble. His entrance as the 14th participant in the men’s Royal Rumble match immediately captured attention. Keys eliminated Damian Priest before being eliminated himself by Bronson Reed and The Vision.
The unexpected shift from AEW to WWE has sparked reactions from multiple AEW talents on social media. Amanda Huber, the wife of the late wrestler Brodie Lee, expressed her excitement with a heartfelt post: “THAT MY BEST FRIEND LETS GOOOOOOO.”
Other AEW wrestlers also joined in to celebrate Keys’ debut. Darius Martin of AEW’s SkyFlight, along with Wardlow and Kevin Knight, took to social media to share their thoughts. Notably, Knight had pinned Hobbs in his final AEW match on January 14, 2026, securing the AEW World Trios Championship.
Keys’ AEW Legacy and Future with WWE
Keys had been a prominent figure in AEW since 2020, where he built a successful career, culminating in multiple title victories, including the TNT Championship in 2023 and the AEW World Trios Championship. His transition to WWE had been anticipated, as the promotion had long shown interest in signing him.
The 35-year-old wrestler’s move marks a significant change in his career trajectory. Keys’ debut at the Royal Rumble not only highlighted his talents but also set the stage for his future in WWE, where he will face new challenges and opportunities.
The wrestling community is abuzz with excitement over what this change means for both Keys and the promotions involved. As fans and fellow wrestlers alike anticipate his next steps, the impact of his debut is already being felt across the wrestling landscape.
With his rich history in AEW and a promising start in WWE, Royce Keys is poised to become a significant player in the wrestling world.
