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- Jeff Cobb is set to debut in WWE on SmackDown and will be present at the Backlash premium live event this weekend.
- His signing follows the completion of his NJPW commitments, with WWE having long-term plans for his acquisition.
- Cobb brings international experience from NJPW, ROH, and PWG, positioning him for an upper-card role in WWE.
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Former New Japan Pro Wrestling star Jeff Cobb is finalizing plans for his WWE debut, with internal expectations placing him on the SmackDown brand and present at this weekend’s Backlash premium live event. The powerhouse wrestler completed his NJPW commitments last month, transitioning to free agency amid widespread speculation about his WWE signing.
According to PWInsider Elite, Cobb’s WWE introduction has been in creative discussions for weeks, with company personnel anticipating his presence at the May 10 St. Louis event. While his exact on-screen role remains unconfirmed, Cobb’s name previously appeared on WWE’s internal roster prior to his NJPW departure, signaling long-term plans for his acquisition.
The 41-year-old Hawaiian wrestler brings extensive international experience to WWE’s revamped SmackDown lineup. His impending debut continues WWE’s trend of recruiting established talent from major global promotions, following recent signings like Jade Cargill and Dragon Lee. Cobb’s physical style and championship pedigree from NJPW, ROH and PWG suggest immediate positioning in WWE’s upper card upon arrival.
Backlash marks WWE’s final premium live event before the company’s upcoming draft, potentially influencing Cobb’s brand placement if he debuts in the coming weeks. The event’s St. Louis location could provide a strategic launch point for the former Olympian’s WWE career.
