US Champion Carmelo Hayes has openly invited a former WWE wrestler to face him for the United States Title, signaling a new high-profile matchup. Since claiming the championship on the December 26 episode of SmackDown, Hayes has defended his title through several open challenges, maintaining his status as a formidable competitor.
Former WWE Star Shows Interest in Championship Match
Before Hayes’s open challenge on the February 27 SmackDown, Bishop Dyer, previously known as Baron Corbin, expressed interest in competing for the US Championship. When WWE posted a teaser asking who would accept Hayes’s challenge, Dyer commented,
Wish I could! He’s so good
– Bishop Dyer
In response, Carmelo Hayes encouraged him directly with the message: Lonewolf! Pull up 🙏🏾
History Between Hayes and Dyer Adds Depth to Rivalry
Hayes and Dyer have shared the ring multiple times, including a notable encounter during the June 27, 2023, Gold Rush event where Hayes defended the NXT Championship against him. Their latest meeting occurred on the May 10, 2024 SmackDown, where Hayes secured a victory over Dyer in the opening round of the King of the Ring tournament.
Recent Title Defenses and Ongoing Competition
Although Bishop Dyer has hinted at the desire to challenge Hayes, the February 27 open challenge was answered by Matt Cardona, who was defeated by Hayes in under 12 minutes, allowing Hayes to retain the US Championship. Hayes continues to demonstrate his dominance in the division through swift and decisive victories.
What This Challenge Means for the US Championship Scene
By directly calling out a former WWE star, Carmelo Hayes is intensifying the competition surrounding the US Championship, potentially setting up an exciting rivalry that reflects his ongoing reign. Fans can expect compelling matchups as Hayes defends his title while seeking worthy challengers, highlighting his importance in WWE’s current landscape.
Wish I could! He’s so good
— Tom (@TomPestock) February 27, 2026
Lonewolf! Pull up 🙏🏾
— Carmelo Hayes (@Carmelo_WWE) February 27, 2026
