Ex-AEW Star’s WWE Debut Triggers Major Concern

Former AEW star Powerhouse Hobbs made his WWE debut this past weekend.

After he departed from AEW, Hobbs made his WWE debut during the Men’s Royal Rumble match under the new ring name Royce Keys. He entered the match at No. 14 and eliminated Damian Priest, who entered at No. 7, before getting eliminated by Bronson Reed. He lasted nearly 10 minutes in the ring,

Speaking on a recent episode of The Stevie Richards Show, WWE veteran Stevie Richards discussed Royce Keys’ WWE debut and his Royal Rumble performance. When asked whether Keys looked like he belonged in the WWE ring during his debut, Richards replied that he did not particularly stand out, which he said was a cause for concern.

Stevie Richards: No, more or less. He didn’t stand out, if that’s more accurate. That’s what I’m more worried about. He didn’t stand out at all. (From 8:07)

WWE Veteran Stevie Richards “Felt Bad” For Royce Keys

Richards also noted that Royce Keys’ debut at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia felt underwhelming. One of the main reasons was the lack of a strong crowd reaction, as Saudi Arabian fans are generally less familiar with AEW compared to WWE.

Stevie Richards: The one person I can’t wait to get to it that should have been over if he debuted at the Rumble in the States or maybe should not have debuted in the Rumble at all, and that is Powerhouse Hobbs. I felt bad for this dude. Royce Keys.

James Romero: Number 14. Powerhouse Hobbs comes up on the screen to deafening silence ’cause they do not get AEW in Saudi Arabia. (From 0:09)

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit the original source and h/t with a link back to TJR Wrestling for the transcription.

Make TJR Wrestling your choice for news by clicking here.