Powerhouse Hobbs had the kind of quiet intensity that speaks for itself when he took the stage at AEW in 2020; he didn’t need fireworks or catchphrases to stand out. Even when he was silent, his presence was clearly authoritative.
Hobbs made his debut as a babyface—sincere, grounded, and obviously hungry—during the pandemic tapings. However, becoming a heel and joining Team Taz felt especially good for his character. The change was more than just a cosmetic one; it allowed him to reach his full potential as AEW’s resident enforcer.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Real Name | William Hobson |
| Ring Name | Powerhouse Hobbs |
| Birthplace | East Palo Alto, California |
| Age | 34 |
| AEW Debut | 2020 (as Will Hobbs) |
| Notable Titles | Former TNT Champion, AEW Trios Champion (with The Opps) |
| Factions | Team Taz, The Opps (with Samoa Joe & Katsuyori Shibata) |
| WWE Status | Contract expired Jan 15, 2026; expected to sign with WWE imminently |
| Credible Source | Fightful Wrestling |
Hobbs established himself as a recurring danger in AEW plots over time. He returned to the mid-card with grit and physicality as a TNT Champion. More recently, he teamed up with Katsuyori Shibata and Samoa Joe to create The Opps, a group that immediately intimidated rivals and gave broadcasts credibility.
The unit’s energy was further enhanced by Hook’s addition in late 2025, which gave it a multigenerational edge that worked remarkably well. Together, they won the AEW World Trios Championships and fiercely defended them, living up to their moniker.
But just as the group was getting off to a great start, Hobbs’ tenure with AEW was quietly coming to an end.
His contract ended on January 15 at midnight, and according to reports, he turned down AEW’s offer of a renewal, even though it was, as insiders put it, substantial. Hobbs chose to investigate free agency instead of increasing comfort. The WWE, which has long been rumored to be interested, seems eager to accept him.
Sources claim that months of civil negotiations led to the decision. Hobbs, who is renowned for his professionalism behind the scenes, merely paved a new course rather than causing rifts. That is extremely uncommon in the frequently chaotic world of wrestling departures.
According to reports, Hobbs is a natural fit for WWE. He satisfies almost all of the company’s requirements with his size, experience, and consistent on-camera presence. Although it’s unclear if he will start in NXT or be promoted to the main roster, insiders suggest that a push at the main event level is still possible.
Hobbs, who joined WWE at the age of 34, is experienced but still on the rise. That timing is especially helpful for a performer of his caliber.
Days before his contract was up, Hobbs and his Opps teammates were set to defend their Trios titles against Hangman Adam Page and Jet Speed on AEW Dynamite. Since The Opps meddled in a match that cost Page his title, the rivalry had been simmering. This clever, ongoing plot arc helped highlight Hobbs without overwriting him.
Page and Jet Speed caught the belts if the taping leaks are correct. If so, it’s a clean handoff and Hobbs’ last AEW fight. No mayhem. No plot twist. The kind of dignified farewell that is uncommon in wrestling exits.
Early in his AEW career, I watched Hobbs during a dark match. He stood at the top of the ramp, breathing slowly and steadily, without saying anything. Even though the crowd was unfamiliar with him, they still paused. That type of pause is earned, not produced.
Hobbs’ use of minimalism has always been exceptionally successful. He remained motionless where others yelled. He waited where others hurried. He is now allowing that same restraint to direct his future by selecting a different company.
Hobbs’ grounded style could be an unexpectedly potent contrast in WWE, where storylines frequently lean toward the fantastical. Makeup, mythology, and mind games are not necessary for him. A platform that enables him to hit hard, maintain consistency, and continue developing is what he needs and has always thrived on.
This change is more than just a new logo on his tights for fans who have followed his journey from independent cards to pay-per-view. It’s an opportunity to see if one of wrestling’s most understatedly reliable talents can succeed on a larger platform.
Hobbs is demonstrating his faith in both WWE and himself by leaving a company he helped create. And that may be the most persuasive action of all in a field full of noise and gimmicks.
Powerhouse Hobbs has created something especially enduring—a reputation for doing the work without demanding the spotlight—through strategic decision-making and reliable delivery. In his next chapter, that foundation might turn out to be extremely versatile.
