Rikishi Confesses To Encouraging Ex-Champion To Leave AEW For WWE

This former AEW star recently debuted in WWE, and Rikishi says he had a hand in it.

Former AEW star Powerhouse Hobbs debuted in WWE in the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble Match as Royce Keys.

Keys entered the gimmick match at #14 and showcased his powerful offense. He even eliminated former World Champion Damian Priest. Keys was eventually thrown over the top rope by Bronson Reed of The Vision.

WWE Legend Rikishi recently stated on his Off The Top podcast that Keys would seek advice when in AEW. In their last meeting, Rikishi encouraged Keys to make the move to WWE.

I just seen him recently. I believe it was a WrestleCon last year in Las Vegas. And, you know, he stopped by. It’s always been respectful…So we had a little chat. I kind of knew he was going to jump ship. You know, it was easy over there for him in AEW, but he wasn’t being used the right way.

Rikishi admits he told Keys that WWE is where most wrestlers from the indies and other promotions aspire to go to and be seen.

It’s like, well, listen, you know, you can always leave and go to WWE if you’re not happy, and it’s not about the money anymore. You know WWE is where it’s at. I mean, every single wrestler on the planet that’s out here in the independent circuit is gunning to be able to be seen or go to WWE.

So I said, take a chance. If you’re going to take a chance, take a chance on yourself. And so for me, that was the end of our conversation, until I seen the highlights. And when he came out, man, I was so happy for him.

Rikishi Feels WWE Needs To Push Chelsea Green

Elsewhere on the podcast episode, Rikishi shared his thoughts on WWE star Chelsea Green and her current booking.

Green had a great run as Women’s United States Champion, bringing credibility to the belt and the women’s mid-card. She lost the belt to Giulia on the first SmackDown episode of 2026. Green was also unfortunately injured on the February 6 episode of SmackDown in an elimination chamber match against Tiffany Stratton and Lash Legend.

On WWE: Unreal’s Season 2, Michael Hayes can be seen stating that Chelsea Green can’t be pushed high up the card like Charlotte Flair or Tiffany Stratton, saying that Green’s job is to elevate these women.

Rikishi, however, disagreed, saying that Chelsea Green is a main-eventer and WWE needs to push her to help her reach her full potential.

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