Powerhouse Hobbs. Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Powerhouse Hobbs makes more sense for WWE

By Adam Taylor | Last updated Nov 15, 2024 2:16 PM ET

Powerhouse Hobbs recently returned to AEW programming after being absent since April with a knee injury. He quickly found himself thrust back into a storyline, teaming with Ricochet to take on the Don Callis Family. Hobbs' deal with the faction had reportedly expired, leaving him out in the cold as Callis began working with Lance Archer and Brian Cage.

According to legendary announcer Jim Ross, Hobbs' return is good for AEW. Ross believes Hobbs could become a major star within the wrestling industry if given the opportunity.

"Hobbs is a star," Ross said via his "Grilling JR" podcast. "He’s going to be — I’m anxious to see where he ends up at the end of his run somewhere down the road, he’s a young guy so he’s still got plenty of time left. I’m a big fan of his and a proponent of his work, I think he can do — he has the ability to be much more significant in the big picture than not. He’s really talented. That was a good signing by Tony Khan."

AEW has a poor track record with talented strongmen. Tony Khan tends to prefer acrobatic talents or highly technical wrestlers. We've yet to see a pure powerhouse thrive within the company. Perhaps the arrival of Bobby Lashley will help change that.

Still, if Hobbs can't find the consistent push he needs to become a star, he could potentially find a home in WWE — a company with a rich history of elevating powerhouse talent. Hobbs would instantly have a rival in Bron Breakker, who is another up-and-coming monster of a man. Of course, Big Bronson Reed and Braun Strowman would provide some versatility in matches, too.

Hobbs has all the tools to become a star. If AEW handles him correctly and allows him to prove himself as a main event-level talent, it could have another significant draw on its hands. If it fumbles him, though, WWE will likely be waiting in the wings.

Ross has been around the wrestling industry for decades. He knows how to spot an elite talent. Hopefully, those within AEW are listening. Otherwise, he could become the next big star to leave the company and become a headliner for its rivals — following in Cody Rhodes' footsteps.

Adam Taylor

Adam Taylor is a sports journalist based out of the UK. Adam has been covering the NBA for nearly a decade with a core focus on the Boston Celtics. He currently holds bylines with Yardbarker, SB Nation and USA Today

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