Sat May 31 00:40:00 UTC 2025: ## WWE Signs Jeff Cobb After Years of Pursuit, Debuts Him as JC Mateo
**WWE has officially added powerhouse Jeff Cobb to its roster after years of pursuit, debuting him at Backlash as JC Mateo.**
The wrestling world was surprised at Backlash when Cobb, now known as JC Mateo, interfered in the United States Championship Fatal Four-Way match, helping Jacob Fatu retain his title by taking out LA Knight. The following SmackDown saw JC Mateo make his in-ring debut, defeating Knight.
In a recent interview, Cobb revealed the long road to his WWE signing. He expressed wanting to join WWE since a 2014 tryout. Despite talks in 2020, he opted to stay with NJPW until the timing was right.
However, WWE’s determination in November 2024 ultimately sealed the deal. Cobb stated WWE offered him “whatever you want” to secure his signature, allowing him to continue working with NJPW while the contract was finalized.
Reflecting on his Backlash debut, Cobb admitted to initial anxieties but was relieved by the crowd’s positive reaction.
The initial name pitched was “JC Matanza” a nod to his Lucha Underground name before settling for JC Mateo.
**In other wrestling news:**
* WWE has asked veteran stars Seth Rollins and John Cena to refine their wrestling basics.
* Calls are growing for Paul Heyman to manage a multiple-time champion to prove his ability to elevate talent.
* A WWE Hall of Famer is reportedly unhappy with the creative direction for a top star and wants the creative team fired.
* Another top TNA star is said to be making waves backstage at WWE.
* WWE and Las Vegas are reportedly strengthening their partnership.
* A former partner of fired WWE star Mandy Rose recently won a championship, eliciting a reaction from Rose.
* NXT’s Trick Williams captured the TNA World Championship, causing frustration amongst some in TNA.
**Stay tuned to TJR Wrestling for the latest updates and wrestling news!**
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