One of the highly anticipated tag team matches announced for SummerSlam 2025 at MetLife Stadium features Logan Paul and Drew McIntyre facing Randy Orton and Jelly Roll. This matchup has gained momentum through recent SmackDown promos and appearances, positioning it as a highlight on WWE’s biggest summer event. However, McIntyre’s participation is now uncertain after he was reportedly denied boarding his flight from the UK back to the U.S. due to passport complications. Although McIntyre has addressed the situation with humor, WWE officials confirm that this is a genuine travel obstacle rather than a storyline development.
The Case for Carmelo Hayes as a Possible Substitute
Should Drew McIntyre be unable to return in time, backstage discussions suggest that Carmelo Hayes could be called upon to replace him. At 30 years old, Hayes is a former NXT Champion who has emerged as a strong performer on SmackDown but has yet to be given a main event opportunity at a pay-per-view event like SummerSlam. Known for his brash heel persona and a history of clashing with veteran wrestlers, Hayes is regarded within WWE circles as a promising talent. His charisma and experience on the main roster make him a suitable candidate to step alongside Logan Paul in a high-profile tag team match.
Hayes’ current heel run has received positive feedback, although his on-screen presence remains somewhat limited. Pairing him with Paul at SummerSlam could serve as a career-defining moment that WWE executive Triple H might view as the beginning of a significant push for Hayes. This potential elevation is especially relevant given WWE’s need to spotlight rising stars on its marquee shows.
Backup Plans in Motion Amid Rising Concerns About McIntyre’s Status
Sources close to WWE indicate that contingency plans are already being prepared should Drew McIntyre fail to resolve his travel problems before the go-home episode of SmackDown airing ahead of SummerSlam. Should McIntyre remain stranded, Carmelo Hayes is the frontrunner to fill the vacancy, ensuring the tag team match remains part of the show’s lineup. With Jelly Roll’s mainstream celebrity appeal, complemented by the star power of Randy Orton and Logan Paul, WWE aims to maintain the match’s entertainment value regardless of McIntyre’s fate.
Randy Orton, known as “The Viper,” has faced multiple real-life challenges affecting his storyline opponents in recent major events. For example, health issues forced WWE to cancel Orton’s planned match against Kevin Owens at WrestleMania. Now, Drew McIntyre’s travel complications create a similar uncertainty for SummerSlam, demonstrating how external factors continue to disrupt WWE’s booking plans.
Possible Outcomes and Impact on WWE’s SummerSlam Lineup
WWE insiders remain cautiously optimistic that Drew McIntyre’s passport issues will be resolved promptly, allowing him to participate as originally scheduled. If that occurs, fans can expect the highly promoted tag team bout to proceed without alteration. However, if McIntyre is unable to attend, the selection of Carmelo Hayes as his replacement not only addresses the immediate challenge but also provides an opportunity to boost a rising star during one of WWE’s biggest shows of the year.
The resolution of this situation will influence how WWE manages important matches moving forward, particularly when unexpected hurdles arise. Moreover, bringing Hayes into the spotlight at SummerSlam could signal a shift toward promoting newer talent in prominent roles, potentially shaping the company’s future direction.
