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.

One of AEW’s most physically imposing stars is officially on the move.

Powerhouse Hobbs has signed with WWE following the expiration of his AEW contract, making his long-rumored jump to Stamford official. According to Fightful, Hobbs put pen to paper with WWE shortly after his deal with AEW ran out last week, confirming speculation that had been building for months.

As previously reported, AEW made a significant effort to retain Hobbs, with discussions continuing all the way up to the final days of his contract. The offer on the table was reportedly substantial, but by that point, Hobbs had already decided his future lay elsewhere. Despite leaving, sources indicate he handled the situation professionally, maintaining good relationships and fulfilling all remaining obligations.

That professionalism was evident on last week’s episode of AEW Collision, where Hobbs and The Opps dropped the AEW World Tag Team Championships to Hangman Page and JetSpeed. The loss now looks like a clear passing-of-the-torch moment as Hobbs prepared for his next chapter.

As of now, there’s no word on when Hobbs will make his WWE television debut. The timing is interesting, however, with SmackDown airing tonight, Saturday Night’s Main Event taking place this weekend, and the 2026 Royal Rumble looming next weekend. Any of those stages could serve as a launchpad, depending on how WWE chooses to roll him out.

Another unanswered question is what name Hobbs will use in WWE. While a change from his AEW presentation is expected, “Hobbs” itself is reportedly still on the table in some form.

At just 30 years old and boasting a rare mix of size, power, and intensity, Hobbs could be a major addition to WWE’s roster. How he’s positioned — and when fans finally see him — will be worth watching closely as the road to the Royal Rumble heats up.

In yet another report on Friday, this one from BodySlam+, Hobbs’ new ring name was also revealed. According to the outlet, Hobbs will be known as “Royce Keys” in WWE. The company filed a trademark for the name on Tuesday.