• Jim Ross expects Chris Jericho and Powerhouse Hobbs to appear as surprise entries in the men’s Royal Rumble.
  • Jericho remains listed on AEW’s official roster despite speculation about a WWE return.
  • Hobbs may debut under a new WWE name — reported as Royce Keys — after recent signing rumors.

Jim Ross names two likely Rumble surprises

Veteran commentator Jim Ross told listeners on his Grilling JR podcast that he believes Chris Jericho and Powerhouse Hobbs will be used as surprise entrants in Saturday’s men’s Royal Rumble match in Saudi Arabia. Ross called Jericho “too smart not to get himself booked” for the show and said a return would generate a “big pop” from fans.

Jericho’s status and AEW listing

Despite widespread reports connecting Jericho to WWE, the longtime star still appears on All Elite Wrestling’s publicly posted roster. Ross acknowledged he does not know for certain, framing his prediction as an informed guess that matches the current rumors and prior reporting about Jericho’s contract situation.

“Hell yeah. Absolutely. He’s too smart not to get himself booked on this show for his return. He’ll get a big pop.” — Jim Ross

Powerhouse Hobbs reportedly headed to WWE

Ross also singled out Powerhouse Hobbs — who has been linked to WWE in recent reports — saying it would make no sense to sign a performer close to a major event and not use him. Industry chatter suggests Hobbs could appear under the name Royce Keys on WWE television, though Ross framed that as speculative and based on conversations he’s had with Hobbs.

“I’m especially excited about ‘Big Willy.’ I don’t know if it’s a secret or not. He’ll be in the Royal Rumble, I think. Why in the hell would you sign a guy this close to a major event and then not utilize him?” — Jim Ross

Where this leaves fans

Ross stressed these are predictions rather than confirmed signings. His reasoning rests on precedent — surprise returns are a Royal Rumble mainstay — and on reported moves involving both men. Fans should expect WWE to use any newly signed names in a big way during a high-profile event like the Royal Rumble.

Watch the Grilling JR segment

Ross discussed the topic on his Grilling JR YouTube channel. Viewers can watch the show for the full context of his comments.

Bottom line

Jim Ross predicts Chris Jericho and Powerhouse Hobbs will appear as surprise Royal Rumble entrants. Both predictions align with recent rumors, but neither appearance was confirmed by WWE or AEW at the time of Ross’s comments.

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