Former New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) star Jeff Cobb is reportedly poised to begin his WWE career imminently. A new report from PWInsider.com suggests the arrival of the highly accomplished free agent is just around the corner.
The report indicates that Cobb’s WWE journey could commence this weekend. Some sources within the company reportedly anticipate Cobb will be present for the Backlash premium live event on Saturday, May 10th, in St. Louis.
However, the PWInsider report clarifies that an on-camera debut at Backlash is not guaranteed. Whether he appears before the crowd or remains backstage is yet to be determined, even if his presence is expected.
Encouragingly for fans awaiting his arrival, the report also states that the company has actively discussed creative plans for Cobb’s official WWE debut in recent weeks. This suggests that WWE is actively preparing for his integration onto the Raw or SmackDown roster.
This buzz surrounding his WWE signing comes despite Cobb recently sharing a cryptic social media post hinting at potential retirement. Regardless of that post, industry reports strongly suggest that he join WWE’s ranks.
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Cobb brings a formidable and unique resume to WWE, built across multiple major promotions. He first gained attention representing Guam in freestyle wrestling at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games.
He later broke out in the wrestling world via Lucha Underground, portraying the monstrous and seemingly unstoppable Matanza Cueto. Following Lucha Underground, Cobb significantly impacted Ring of Honor (ROH), debuting in 2018.
During his ROH tenure, he quickly captured the ROH World Television Championship. For that title, he notably defeated Punishment Martinez, now known to WWE audiences as Damian Priest.
Cobb’s most extensive recent run was with NJPW. After prior appearances, he officially signed in 2019 and became a powerhouse member of Will Ospreay’s influential United Empire faction.
Wrestling fans lauded his performances in NJPW’s grueling G1 Climax tournaments. He consistently delivered memorable, hard-hitting bouts against top stars, including Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi.
His NJPW accomplishments include reigns as NEVER Openweight Champion and IWGP Tag Team Champion alongside his United Empire stablemate Great-O-Khan. Cobb even made a brief detour to All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2020, appearing as a mercenary hired by Chris Jericho.
Cobb is a highly anticipated addition to the WWE landscape because he is known for his incredible blend of raw power, exemplified by his “Tour of the Islands” finisher, and surprising athleticism. His potential debut adds another layer of excitement to the Backlash weekend and beyond.
While awaiting official confirmation from WWE or Cobb, the PWInsider report strongly suggests the powerhouse Olympian’s arrival is imminent. Fans will watch Backlash closely for any sign of the decorated free agent.
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