News regarding which WWE brand Royce Keys (formerly Powerhouse Hobbs) will be joining

As seen during the 2026 WWE Royal Rumble PLE, Royce Keys (formerly Powerhouse Hobbs in AEW) made his debut with the company in the men’s Rumble match. In regards to Keys’ future with WWE, sources indicate to Bodyslam.net that he was backstage at RAW on Monday. The word was that he will be part of the SmackDown roster moving forward.

While speaking to Sam Roberts, Big E stated the following about Keys joining WWE…

“I got to see Royce Keys, the former Will Hobbs, before and after. He’s someone that I have known for a few years now and I’ve been such a big fan of. So to see him on this stage, get this opportunity, it’s something that he’s dreamed of for quite some time. So it was beautiful to see him there.”

Booker T also commented on Keys during his podcast…

“He made the right choice. Making that walk in the Rumble – that right there is just the beginning for Royce. He’s getting ready to do some big things in the WWE. I can’t wait. I can’t wait to see how this kid’s positioned.”