Carmelo Hayes will appear on this Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown to continue his streak of United States Championship defenses, marking his fifth consecutive week putting the title on the line. The US Title Challenge highlights the show scheduled for January 30, 2026, where Hayes will face an open challenge, further testing his reign as champion.
Strong Title Defenses Throughout 2026
This year, Hayes has successfully retained his US Championship against notable opponents such as Johnny Gargano, Shinsuke Nakamura, Leon Slater, and Ilja Dragunov. These defenses have solidified his position as a formidable champion in WWE’s mid-card division.
Additional Matches and Appearances on SmackDown
Alongside the US Title Open Challenge, the upcoming SmackDown lineup includes an appearance by Drew McIntyre. Fans can look forward to these key moments on the show, with full event coverage provided by Fightful as it airs.
Looking Ahead Toward the Royal Rumble Event
The build-up to the Royal Rumble, taking place the day after SmackDown on January 31, 2026, continues with speculation and predictions from a variety of personalities. The event promises to be a major highlight, setting the stage for future storylines and championship opportunities within WWE.
