Carmelo Hayes has been a notable figure in WWE since his arrival in 2021, but his journey on the main roster has been challenging despite the overwhelming fan support he continues to receive. As a popular SmackDown star, Hayes is at a pivotal moment in his career, with his recent struggles drawing significant attention from supporters eager to see him regain momentum.
After spending nearly seven years on the independent wrestling circuit, Carmelo Hayes signed with WWE in 2021 and quickly made a name for himself by capturing his first title on the NXT brand. His rise was swift, highlighting his talent and potential within WWE’s developmental division. In 2024, Hayes was selected as a first-round pick during the main roster draft, signaling the company‘s belief in his promise. However, his transition to the main roster has not yielded the success expected, prompting fans to campaign for a stronger push on his behalf across social media platforms.
Although fans are rallying behind him, Carmelo Hayes will not be part of the upcoming SummerSlam event. Still, this week holds significance for him as he celebrates his 31st birthday on August 1, marking an important milestone in his personal and professional life.
Partnership with The Miz Comes to an End
Earlier in the year, Carmelo Hayes teamed up with WWE veteran The Miz, forming a partnership that gained some attention. Nevertheless, recent developments suggest that this alliance has quietly dissolved. The Miz returned to WWE action on the latest SmackDown, competing against Jacob Fatu in a solo match, but Hayes was notably absent and did not interact with Miz during the segment.
Hayes has not appeared on WWE televised programming since the July 18 episode of SmackDown, signaling a pause in his on-screen presence. This absence raises questions about his current role and direction within the company.
Hayes’ Current Standing on the SmackDown Roster
Carmelo Hayes has been a part of the SmackDown brand for over a year. His initial period on the blue brand was promising, but recent months have seen his visibility diminish considerably. Aside from his victory in the prestigious Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, Hayes has yet to add significant accomplishments on the main roster, leaving fans hopeful for an upcoming resurgence.
This lull has made fans more vocal in expressing their desire for Carmelo Hayes to receive the spotlight he earned during his NXT run. His talent and past achievements position him as a wrestler capable of making a bigger impact, should WWE choose to elevate him again.
