Carmelo Hayes is currently holding the WWE United States Championship and actively defending his title on weekly shows. His rise to this position, however, required patience and hard work, especially during his initial year on the main roster. During this period, Hayes benefited greatly from the presence and mentorship of The Miz, a seasoned WWE Champion with extensive experience.
Though the two now find themselves at odds in their ongoing storylines, Hayes remains appreciative of The Miz’s role in his development. In a recent interview with Good Karma Wrestling, Carmelo spoke about how having a veteran like The Miz nearby was crucial, particularly when his career faced uncertain moments. He also shared some key advice The Miz offered him when Hayes felt at his lowest.
The Mentorship That Helped Hayes Navigate Wrestling’s Ups and Downs
Reflecting on their relationship, Hayes said that The Miz is an indispensable figure in WWE despite public perceptions. He expressed sincere gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside him and learn from his experiences. Carmelo recounted times when he felt confused and uncertain about his future, and how The Miz was the only person who could clearly explain the realities of the wrestling business.
“He’s a cool dude, man, despite what people wanna portray him as or whatever. He’s super; trying to think of a word to explain it. He’s necessary, if that makes sense. Like, he’s a necessary person to have around. I remember, at one point, despite whatever storyline we have going on, I just said, I was like, ‘Bro, just thank you for being here.’ I’m like, ‘I’m so happy that you’re here.’ And I just, you know, I had to tell him that. I was like, ‘I’m so happy you’re here, and I’m here at the same time, and I’m getting to learn from you,’ because there’s a lot of times where, you know, I was feeling low, you know what I mean? I was like, ‘I don’t know what’s going on,’ and the only person that has been able to explain it to me is The Miz because he’s been high, he’s been low, and he’s been in the middle. He’s done it so many times, and he gave me great advice, where he told me, ‘Hey, when you’re at the top, it’s going to be easy because you figured out how to manage at the bottom.’
?Carmelo Hayes, WWE United States Champion
Hayes then described how that advice resonated deeply with him during difficult times early in his career.
“I was like, ‘Dang! Like, that’s so true.’ He’s like, ‘Yeah!’ He’s like, ‘Just wait. Everybody gets a turn.’ In a way, you know, not everybody gets a turn, but when you’re good, you’re going to get chosen at some point, right?”
?Carmelo Hayes, WWE United States Champion
Recent Matches Highlight Hayes’ Growing Confidence and Momentum
Following this mentorship period, Hayes recently faced The Miz on SmackDown, securing a win that reinforced his rising status. The United States Champion will soon participate in an Elimination Chamber qualifying match on the upcoming SmackDown episode, where he is scheduled to compete against Trick Williams and Damian Priest in a Triple Threat Match. This opportunity further emphasizes Hayes’ steady ascent in WWE’s ranks.
Aside from these matches, Carmelo has openly discussed the lessons he has absorbed from his ongoing main roster experiences, sharing insights on maintaining focus and resilience. These reflections underscore his passion for growth and determination to capitalize on the chances he earns.
The Lasting Impact of Veteran Guidance on Hayes’ Wrestling Career
The relationship between Carmelo Hayes and The Miz exemplifies how veteran performers can influence younger talent through shared wisdom and perspective. The Miz’s acknowledgment of the cyclical nature of wrestling success and advice to manage struggles at the bottom to ease the pressure at the top offers a realistic blueprint for longevity in a competitive environment.
As Hayes continues to build momentum and defend his United States Championship, the lessons imparted by The Miz are likely to remain a foundation for his approach. Fans can anticipate Carmelo leveraging this experience to sustain his success and aim for even greater achievements within WWE.
