Royce Keys’ WWE future remains in question.
Former AEW star Powerhouse Hobbs made his official WWE debut at the 2026 Royal Rumble PLE in Saudi Arabia. He’s competed in a few dark matches at recent SmackDown tapings, but he’s yet to make his televised debut on the weekly shows.
While fans have started to complain about his absence, WrestleVotes Radio (via Fightful Select) has provided a disappointing update, if not an overall lack of an update. The report revealed that while he has been present backstage during recent SmackDown tapings, the company has “nothing” in the works for him.
WrestleVotes also noted during the Q&A session that they are unsure when Royce Keys might appear on TV, but hope WWE has an idea and that his absence is part of the creative plan.
“Nothing. Big question mark. Absolutely nothing. You know, we had speculated that SmackDown was the place for him. It certainly does still seem like that’s going to be his home. I know he was backstage Friday night. Saw some pictures of him. Don’t know when he’s showing up on TV. Hopefully, they have an idea. Hopefully, this is part of the plan,” the report said about Royce Keys. [H/T WrestlingNews.co]
WrestleVotes later clarified that while they haven’t heard anything about Hobbs’ status, that doesn’t mean WWE “has nothing” for him.
Royce Keys discusses his goals for WWE after his in-ring career
During his recent conversation with Stephanie McMahon on her What’s Your Story podcast, Royce Keys shared that he wants to build something long-term in WWE, and he’d love to help the company in different ways after the end of his in-ring career.
“To think that I’m making my dreams come true. I tell people I’m not satisfied with this. It’s a great introduction, I love it. But I plan on rewriting things, being here until I say, ‘You know what, I think I want to step away.’ I want to help this company in a different way, whether that’s backstage or whatever. I have goals and plans that I’ve written out,” Royce Keys said.
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