Update on WWE Status of Royce Keys, Upcoming Plans

BodySlam+ has an update on the recently signed WWE Superstar Royce Keys. Keys recently made his WWE debut in January at the 2026 Royal Rumble, competing in the men’s Rumble match. However, Keys has yet to make an appearance in WWE, despite appearing on Stephanie McMahon’s “What’s Your Story?” podcast and wrestling on some dark matches before SmackDown.

According to BodySlam’s Patreon update, WWE has been having Keys work dark matches before SmackDown as a way for him to get some in-ring time while the creative team finalizes what his direction will be moving forward. It’s also noted that WWE and Keys have filmed vignettes for him, which are expected to begin airing soon.

Additionally, a source tells BodySlam that SmackDown is still expected to be the roster where Keys’ works. An earlier report by Fightful Select said that WWE had filmed things for Keys, but there was no context on what was filmed, the creative plans for the wrestler, or a date for his re-debut.

Although Keys has not formally re-debuted yet, WWE did heavily promote his appearance on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast across its programming. WWE not yet announced which roster Royce Keys will be a part of following his Rumble appearance.