WWE United States Champion Carmelo Hayes recently shared his thoughts on the current state of his championship reign during an appearance on the Good Karma Wrestling podcast. Hayes expressed his frustration with the weekly Open Challenge format, stating that he wants to return to a system where wrestlers earn their title opportunities through more meaningful storylines.
Hayes Wants Competitors to Prove Themselves for Title Shots
During the podcast, Hayes highlighted his belief that title contenders should have to work hard to earn their matches, which contrasts with the current model where anyone can come out on a Friday and immediately get a shot at the United States Championship. He reflected on his own experience battling Andrade regularly for a chance, which required significant effort and grit.
To be honest, the Open Challenge is becoming a little bit more. I know people have been saying about storylines; I do want to bring storylines back. I do feel like there is a period where guys have to earn the opportunity to get a title shot. I don’t think people should be able to pull up every Friday and just automatically get a title shot because I didn’t get it. Until the Open Challenge opened, I had to earn one, and it took a lot. If you guys remember, I was battling Andrade freaking every week, just killing ourselves for an opportunity to get an opportunity. So, I’d like to bring that back.
? Carmelo Hayes, WWE United States Champion
The Future of the United States Championship Scene
Hayes’ comments underscore a growing desire among some competitors for a more traditional, storyline-driven approach to title defenses. By demanding that challengers build their way up, Hayes aims to restore prestige to the United States Championship and create deeper rivalries. This shift could signal changes in how WWE structures title scenes moving forward, emphasizing merit and narrative development over open weekly challenges.
