Royce Keys’ WWE run hasn’t exactly gotten off to the explosive start some fans expected—but behind the scenes, there’s a bit more to the story.
After making his debut during the Royal Rumble, the former AEW standout (known to many as Powerhouse Hobbs) has yet to appear on WWE television in any meaningful way. That absence has raised eyebrows, especially considering the buzz around his signing. However, a new report is shedding light on both his current status and a key decision he made before joining the company.
According to Fightful Select, Keys was firm on one major point during negotiations: he wanted to go straight to WWE’s main roster. Unlike many incoming talents who are routed through NXT to adjust to WWE’s system, Keys reportedly pushed to skip developmental entirely—and ultimately got his way.
Even though he hasn’t been featured on TV yet, Keys hasn’t been sitting idle. The report notes that he’s been involved in several behind-the-scenes projects, including filming content and being scanned for inclusion in an upcoming WWE 2K video game. He’s also been traveling with the SmackDown brand and working dark matches against notable names like Alex Shelley, Chris Sabin, and Rey Fenix—suggesting WWE is quietly getting him acclimated before a full-fledged debut.
There’s also been some indication that WWE is deliberately holding off on using Keys on television while he adjusts to the company’s style and structure. While that might test the patience of fans eager to see him in action, it could point to a more calculated rollout.
And that rollout might come sooner rather than later.
Word is that WWE could be lining up something for WrestleMania 42, potentially involving an unexpected crossover. Reports suggest Keys may be paired with music star Jelly Roll, who has recently reappeared in WWE and is seemingly heading into a storyline with The Miz and Kit Wilson. The idea would center around the two bonding over shared struggles, creating a unique angle that blends celebrity appeal with in-ring power.
Jelly Roll has only wrestled once in WWE so far—teaming with Randy Orton at SummerSlam against Logan Paul and Drew McIntyre—but the company appears open to bringing him back into the fold.
For now, Royce Keys remains off TV, but clearly not out of the picture. If WWE is indeed saving his true introduction for a bigger stage, fans may not have to wait much longer to see how this next chapter unfolds.
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