Powerhouse Hobbs Expected to Leave AEW for WWE
Powerhouse Hobbs, the former AEW TNT Champion, is widely expected to depart All Elite Wrestling and join WWE as his contract with AEW has reportedly expired. This move would add another notable name to the growing list of talent who have transitioned from AEW to WWE.
Contract Expiration and AEW Departure
According to a report from Fightful Select, Hobbs’ contract with AEW officially expired at midnight following the AEW Collision tapings after Dynamite. Sean Ross Sapp of Fightful Select confirmed that Hobbs “finished up” with AEW at these tapings, signaling the end of his run with the company sence joining in 2020.Crucially, this expiration makes him promptly eligible to sign with WWE.
While AEW reportedly made a meaningful effort to retain Hobbs, offering a “huge” and “significant” contract extension, he ultimately decided to explore other opportunities. Sources indicate that Hobbs “wanted to test the waters” and see what options were available to him, despite leaving AEW on good terms.
WWE’s Long-Standing Interest and Anticipated Arrival
WWE has reportedly harbored interest in Powerhouse Hobbs for an extended period. Insiders within WWE have stated that they “expect him to join the company,” and believe his arrival is all but certain unless unforeseen circumstances arise.This expectation isn’t new; rumors of Hobbs perhaps joining WWE surfaced several months ago, though direct contact hadn’t been established at that time.
The initial interest from WWE dates back several years, specifically during the tenure of Dan Ventrelle as head of talent relations. However, Hobbs remained committed to AEW at that point. The current situation represents a renewed and successful pursuit by WWE to secure his signature.
A Look Back at Powerhouse Hobbs’ AEW Career
Will Hobson, known to fans as Powerhouse Hobbs, made a significant impact during his time in AEW. He initially gained prominence as a key member of Team Taz, alongside established stars like Ricky Starks, Brian Cage, and Hook. This association helped elevate his profile and showcase his imposing physical presence and aggressive in-ring style.
Championship Success and Notable Feuds
Hobbs’ AEW career was highlighted by his reign as the AEW TNT Champion, which he captured in a thrilling Falls Count Anywhere match on the March 8, 2023, episode of Dynamite. This victory solidified his position as a top singles competitor within the promotion.He demonstrated a powerful wrestling style, utilizing devastating finishing moves like the “World’s Most Dangerous Slam” and a bone-jarring spinebuster.
Beyond his singles accomplishments, Hobbs also experienced success in the trios division, capturing the AEW World Trios championship.His later involvement with the Don Callis Family faction added another layer to his character and provided opportunities for compelling storylines.
The Growing Trend of AEW Talent Moving to WWE
should Hobbs officially sign with WWE, he will become the latest in a growing number of performers to make the jump from AEW to its rival promotion.Notable examples include Cody Rhodes,whose return to WWE has been a major success story,Jade Cargill,a dominant force in AEW’s women’s division,Shawn spears,and Ethan Page. This trend highlights the evolving landscape of professional wrestling and the increasing fluidity of talent between the two major companies.
Key Takeaways
- Powerhouse Hobbs’ AEW contract has expired, making him a free agent.
- WWE has long-standing interest in Hobbs and is widely expected to sign him.
- AEW offered Hobbs a substantial contract extension, but he chose to explore other options.
- Hobbs’ AEW career included a TNT Championship reign and success in both singles and trios competition.
- His potential move continues a trend of talent transitioning from AEW to WWE.
