Jeff Cobb’s WWE debut might be happening sooner than expected.
According to a new report from PWInsider Elite on May 8, 2025, the former NJPW standout is expected to start “soon” with WWE, with some within the company speculating that Cobb will make his first appearance at WWE Backlash this Saturday.
Cobb’s WWE signing has been in the works for months, despite the wrestler playing coy about his future. It was previously confirmed that Cobb wrapped up his New Japan Pro Wrestling obligations while keeping his WWE plans under wraps. A source mentioned, “They knew he was finishing up,” referring to NJPW’s decision to keep Cobb in the spotlight despite his impending WWE move.
WrestleVotes Radio had also noted internal WWE discussions about whether Cobb would debut on the main roster or start in NXT. With PWInsider’s latest update, it now appears that Cobb could be heading straight to WWE’s main stage at Backlash, though there’s still no official word from WWE on which brand he will join.
Will Jeff Cobb make a surprise appearance at WWE Backlash? How do you think he’ll fare against the current roster? Share your thoughts in the comments below!