Mark Henry Praises Royce Keys’ SmackDown Debut

Royce Keys has officially made his WWE SmackDown television debut — and the response has been largely positive, even if veteran Mark Henry spotted some areas for the newcomer to sharpen up. Keys appeared on the April 10 SmackDown in a dominant win over Berto, with his physical presence making an immediate impression. However, Henry offered a nuanced assessment on Busted Open that praised the debut while flagging a couple of teachable moments.

“I enjoyed the Royce Keys segments. With the match, he stayed within himself — he stayed powerful. He made some mistakes in the sense that, if you’re going to hit somebody with something, follow it up with something. Don’t get caught up in the crowd, wanting to wave at your friends in the front row and all of that, because you kicked him in the ass,” Henry said. Despite the critique, Henry made clear he is bullish on Keys’ long-term potential. “He hasn’t had a problem with mentorship — there are a few guys that I know are in his ear that I’ve watched talk to him. He’s going to be a good one, I can see it already.”

Mark Henry Warns Royce Keys Not to Join Solo Sikoa’s Faction After Backstage Segment on SmackDown

The debut was followed by a backstage segment in which Solo Sikoa approached Keys and offered him an open door to join his faction. Henry was unambiguous about his recommendation. “I don’t think that Royce Keys should focus his attention on joining a clique. I think he should try to be his own man right now. But when you’re your own man, you rub people that want you to be muscle for them the wrong way.” Keys — formerly known as Powerhouse Hobbs — had been rumored to team with Jelly Roll at WrestleMania 42, though current storylines do not appear to be heading in that direction with the event now days away.