Carmelo Hayes Bio
Early Life and Background
Christian Brigham, known professionally as Carmelo Hayes, was born on August 1, 1994, in Framingham, Massachusetts. He graduated from Framingham High School in 2012 and developed a passion for professional wrestling at a young age. After completing his education, he began training at the New England Pro Wrestling Academy, laying the foundation for his future career in wrestling.
Path to WWE
Hayes made his in-ring debut on April 12, 2014, under the ring name Christian Casanova for Chaotic Wrestling. He quickly gained experience on the independent circuit, wrestling for various promotions in New England. His early career saw him adopt a unique persona, including a Michael Jackson-inspired gimmick that showcased his creativity and charisma. Over the years, he honed his skills and built a reputation, which eventually led to his signing with WWE in February 2021.
Carmelo Hayes Career
Early Career (2014–2021)
During his time on the independent circuit, Hayes competed in several promotions, including Power League Wrestling, Top Rope Promotions, and Limitless Wrestling. He achieved notable success, winning championships such as the NCW New England Championship and the Chaotic Wrestling Heavyweight Championship. His impressive performances and growing popularity caught the attention of WWE executives.
WWE Breakthrough (2021–2023)
Upon signing with WWE, Hayes debuted on NXT on June 1, 2021, where he accepted an open challenge for the NXT Cruiserweight Championship. Although he lost that match, he quickly made a name for himself by winning the NXT Breakout Tournament later that year. This victory earned him a championship opportunity, which he successfully cashed in to win the NXT North American Championship on October 12, 2021. Hayes went on to unify the North American Championship with the Cruiserweight Championship on January 4, 2022, becoming the final Cruiserweight Champion before its retirement.
In 2023, Hayes reached new heights by defeating Bron Breakker at NXT Stand & Deliver to capture the NXT Championship. He successfully defended the title against Breakker in a rematch at NXT Battleground, solidifying his status as a top contender in WWE.
WWE Era (2023–Present)
Hayes continued to showcase his talent on the SmackDown brand, where he has been involved in high-profile matches and storylines. In 2025, he won the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, further establishing his reputation in WWE. His dynamic in-ring style and ability to connect with the audience have made him a fan favorite.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Carmelo Hayes is known for his athleticism, charisma, and versatility in the ring. His ability to adapt to various wrestling styles and engage with the audience has made him a standout performer. He often employs a mix of high-flying maneuvers and technical wrestling, showcasing his extensive training and experience.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Hayes has achieved significant milestones in his career, including being a one-time NXT Champion, a two-time NXT North American Champion, and the final NXT Cruiserweight Champion. His victory in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal in 2025 marked a major highlight in his career.
Carmelo Hayes Career Wins
Carmelo Hayes has accumulated several notable wins throughout his wrestling career, particularly during his time in WWE. His championship victories and tournament wins highlight his skill and determination as a professional wrestler.
Current WWE Series Highlights
As of 2025, Hayes has secured multiple championships, including his reigns as NXT Champion and NXT North American Champion. His first win in WWE came during the NXT Breakout Tournament, and he has continued to build on that success with significant victories in high-stakes matches.
Previous Independent Circuit Achievements
Before joining WWE, Hayes had a successful career on the independent circuit, where he won several championships, including the NCW New England Championship and the Chaotic Wrestling Heavyweight Championship. His accomplishments during this time laid the groundwork for his future success in WWE.
Carmelo Hayes Family
Family Background and WWE Lineage
Carmelo Hayes is engaged to fellow professional wrestler Kelani Jordan. Their relationship has been a source of support as they both navigate their careers in the wrestling industry.
Personal Life
Hayes maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing primarily on his wrestling career. His engagement to Jordan has been publicly acknowledged, and they share a passion for the sport.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Carmelo Hayes has continued to make an impact on the WWE scene. His victory in the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal showcased his resilience and determination. Throughout the year, he has been involved in various storylines, including a notable feud with Andrade, which has highlighted his competitive spirit. As he navigates the challenges of the main roster, Hayes remains a key player in WWE, with fans eager to see what the future holds for him.
