Backstage News On The Reason Powerhouse Hobbs Adopted His New In-Ring Name Following WWE Royal Rumble Debut

Former AEW World Trios Champion Powerhouse Hobbs made his WWE debut at the 2026 Royal Rumble premium live event last night. As previously reported, he was introduced under the name Royce Keys.

He entered the Men’s Royal Rumble Match at #14 and showcased his strength by eliminating former World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest. Although Hobbs performed well in his WWE debut, he did not win the Men’s Royal Rumble, as Bronson Reed ultimately eliminated him.

According to Fightful Select, Hobbs chose the in-ring name Royce Keys in honor of his youngest son, Royce, and to pay tribute to his late mother’s maiden name, Keys. It was also mentioned that the name Hobson, which is his real name, was a possibility for him to use. Hobbs concluded his five-year tenure with All Elite Wrestling earlier this month after deciding not to sign a new contract.