Royce Keys has received one of the biggest honors of his career outside the squared circle.
Before stepping into one of the highest-profile matches of his WWE run, the rising star returned home to East Palo Alto, California, where city officials recognized his achievements with a special tribute.
The celebration came on July 23, just days before Keys prepares to compete at his first-ever SummerSlam.
East Palo Alto declares July 23 as Royce Keys Day
Keys, whose real name is William Hobson, spent time with members of the East Palo Alto community as Mayor Webster Lincoln officially proclaimed July 23, 2026, as “Royce Keys Day.” The proclamation celebrated both his accomplishments in WWE and his previous run in AEW. It also recognized the pride he continues to show for his hometown.
The city praised Keys for serving as a positive role model. Moreover, they shone an example on how his career inspires young people growing up in East Palo Alto.
“Royce Keys serves as an outstanding ambassador for the City of East Palo Alto, exemplifying excellence, humility, perseverance, and community pride while demonstrating to future generations that greatness can come from any neighborhood.”
Additionally, Keys received an Appreciation Award in recognition of everything he has done to represent the city throughout his wrestling career.
Growing up in East Palo Alto has remained a central part of Keys’ story. In both his AEW career as “Powerhouse” Will Hobbs and his current WWE run, his connection to his hometown comes out prominently. It even appeared as a snippet in the vignette that introduced him to WWE audiences earlier this year.
The honor arrives during a busy stretch for Keys. On a recent appearance on 107.7 The Bone, he dismissed claims that WWE had sidelined him after his Royal Rumble debut. He explained that he spent nearly three months working dark matches after personally requesting additional ring time from Triple H.
Keys now turns his attention back to the ring. He teams with LA Knight and Solo Sikoa against Jacob Fatu and The Usos in a six-man tag team match at SummerSlam. It’s a reminder that while championships are earned inside the ropes, some victories hit closer to home.
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