Royce Keys has officially arrived on WWE SmackDown, making a strong first impression during his in-ring debut on the April 10 episode from San Jose, California.
Formerly known as Powerhouse Hobbs in All Elite Wrestling, Keys was introduced with a video package highlighting his hometown roots before stepping into the ring. WWE further emphasized his presence by presenting him as “The Mon-Star,” signaling big expectations for the newcomer.
Keys faced Berto, who was accompanied by Angel. After both men made their entrances, Keys received an extended introduction before the match got underway.
Berto initially tried to slow the pace with a headlock, but Keys quickly took control, using his power advantage to send Berto into the ropes and drop him with a clothesline before following up with a slam. Keys maintained pressure early, but outside interference from Angel allowed Berto to briefly gain momentum, sending Keys into the ring post.
Back in the ring, Berto connected with a missile dropkick from the top rope for a near fall and continued his offense with strikes and a second-rope attack. However, the turning point came when Berto attempted a springboard crossbody, only for Keys to catch him mid-air and deliver a fallaway slam, drawing a strong reaction from the crowd.
From there, Keys took over, hitting a running powerslam and a corner splash. Angel attempted another distraction on the apron, but Keys knocked him down with a clothesline before finishing Berto with a thunderous spinebuster to secure the win.
Later in the show, Keys was interviewed backstage by Cathy Kelley when he was approached by Solo Sikoa. Sikoa told Keys that he “runs things” on SmackDown and made it clear that if Keys needed anything, his door was open—hinting at a potential alliance or future storyline development.
Keys’ dominant debut and immediate interaction with Sikoa positions him as a notable new force on SmackDown moving forward.
Royce Keys Dominates in WWE SmackDown Debut
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