Carmelo Hayes made quite a statement on SmackDown last week after being selected in the first round of the 2024 WWE Draft. Upon arriving on the blue brand that night, he wasted no time challenging the Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, who eagerly accepted.
In a thrilling contest between the former NXT Champion and WWE’s reigning kingpin, the man who says he doesn’t miss threw up a shot that just rattled in and out of the net. Despite the defeat, Hayes remained optimistic during the SmackDown Lowdown, predicting even greater success in the future.
“I know I’m destined for greatness,” said Hayes. “Going against a guy like Cody Rhodes, WWE Champ, for a reason. I might not have made it through. I might not have beat Cody Rhodes. But I shot from the logo, and I’ll tell you what, I hit rim on that.”
After working in the independent scene for several years, Hayes made his NXT debut in 2021. During his time with WWE’s developmental brand, he was NXT Champion, a two-time NXT North American Champion, and the final NXT Cruiserweight Champion. Hayes recently wrapped up his run with WWE’s third brand by putting over his former friend and hype man, Trick Williams, who recently captured the NXT Title after defeating Hayes in a steel cage match to end their rivalry.
Upon hearing the news that the man he had headlined Stand & Deliver with was promoted to WWE’s main roster, Williams expressed goodwill for his former ally during a WWE exclusive.
“Yo, I’m super hyped, super excited for Carmelo Hayes. He is a phenomenal talent. As everybody knows, he is Him,” said Williams.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login