The alliance between The Miz and Carmelo Hayes, known as Melo Don’t Miz, officially ended this week on SmackDown when The Miz unexpectedly betrayed Hayes. Their split marked the conclusion of a partnership that had been strained for some time, highlighting growing tensions and shifting dynamics within WWE.
The relationship between the two wrestlers had gradually deteriorated as Hayes concentrated more on his solo career, while The Miz insisted on maintaining their tag team status. Additionally, WWE’s broader strategic plans appear to have influenced this breakup, suggesting a larger narrative playing out behind the scenes.
Turning Carmelo Hayes into a Hero Figure
One important factor behind The Miz’s betrayal seems to be WWE’s intention to establish Carmelo Hayes as a babyface character. Since his debut on the main roster, Hayes has primarily oscillated between heel and tweener roles, but a shift toward a heroic persona was reportedly in the works for several weeks.
Wrestling journalist Cory Hays from BodySlam.net recently noted that WWE is indeed planning to rebrand Hayes as a fan favorite, underscoring the company’s interest in changing his portrayal.
“WWE does want Melo as a babyface, so let’s see how they execute that.”
Cory Hays, BodySlam.net
Hayes has also enjoyed the backing of WWE Chief Content Officer Triple H, who has openly expressed admiration for the 31-year-old wrestler since his early days in NXT. This support likely contributed to WWE’s decision to turn Hayes into a beloved figure, prompting a split from The Miz.
Strained Relations Following Last Week’s Match
The tension between The Miz and Carmelo Hayes escalated notably during last week’s SmackDown episode, providing a catalyst for their eventual fallout. Facing off against former tag team champions, The Street Profits, The Miz once again tried to dominate the match by taking control without consulting Hayes.
This move frustrated Hayes, who refused to come to The Miz’s aid later in the match when he was pinned. The situation carried over backstage, where The Miz confronted Hayes about his lack of support. Hayes responded coldly, deepening the rift and setting the stage for the conflict that followed.
Backstage Argument Sparks the Final Break
Just prior to attacking Hayes on SmackDown, The Miz confronted him backstage in a heated exchange. The Miz demanded to know why Hayes failed to protect him during the tag team match, to which Hayes retorted that Miz should have saved himself.
When Miz stressed the importance of mutual support in tag teams, Hayes accused him of being overbearing and controlling throughout their partnership. Hayes then declared the alliance over, a statement that provoked The Miz to respond with a violent attack using his Skull Crushing Finale move.
The confrontation not only marked the end of their alliance but also laid the groundwork for potential future encounters. There is speculation that the two will face off in a singles match on next week’s SmackDown, where Hayes could secure a victory that solidifies his new babyface status within WWE.
The breakup between The Miz and Carmelo Hayes symbolizes a significant shift in WWE’s narrative direction, emphasizing evolving character roles and new rivalries. With Hayes positioned to rise as a babyface, WWE appears focused on refreshing its roster dynamics while providing intense storylines for fans to follow closely.
