Sat Jan 31 20:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Powerhouse Hobbs Offered Blockbuster AEW Deal Before WWE Jump

The Story:

Powerhouse Hobbs, a prominent figure in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) since 2020, has reportedly accepted an offer from World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) despite a significantly lucrative counter-offer from AEW. According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, AEW’s offer to Hobbs was surprisingly high, rivaling deals given to top AEW stars in its initial years. Hobbs, a former TNT Champion and World Trios Champion in AEW, will now be known as Royce Keys in WWE. WWE filed to trademark the name on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Key Points:

  • Powerhouse Hobbs received a “great AEW offer to stay,” exceeding expectations.
  • The AEW offer was comparable to Bryan Danielson’s initial AEW contract and significantly higher than what Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn earned four years prior.
  • Hobbs will be using the name Royce Keys in WWE.
  • WWE filed to trademark “Royce Keys” on January 20, 2026.
  • Hobbs turned 35 last Friday.
  • He had been with AEW since 2020, holding the TNT Championship and World Trios Championship.

Key Takeaways:

  • AEW was willing to invest heavily to retain Powerhouse Hobbs, suggesting his perceived value within the company.
  • Despite the substantial offer, Hobbs chose WWE, likely influenced by factors beyond pure financial compensation, such as creative direction or personal preferences.
  • The move signals continued competition between AEW and WWE for talent.
  • WWE’s quick trademark filing for “Royce Keys” indicates a plan to integrate Hobbs into their programming swiftly.
  • This highlights the volatility of talent rosters and the ongoing negotiations within professional wrestling.

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