This Friday, WWE SmackDown will feature a major title defense as Carmelo Hayes puts his United States Championship on the line in London. Hayes is set to issue an open challenge during the episode held at OVO Arena Wembley, inviting an undisclosed opponent to compete for his championship.
Hayes Continues Tradition of Open Challenges Since Winning the Title
After capturing the United States Championship from Ilja Dragunov in late 2025, Hayes has successfully defended his title against notable competitors including Johnny Gargano and Shinsuke Nakamura. His open challenge reflects a tradition established on SmackDown by former champions like Sami Zayn and Dragunov before him, maintaining high-stakes excitement for fans and challengers alike.
Significance of This Title Reign for Carmelo Hayes
This title defense marks Hayes’ first major championship reign since his promotion to WWE’s main roster. Each match he defends the belt serves as a pivotal step in his growing career, highlighting his rapid ascent in the company’s ranks.
Viewing Options for Fans Worldwide
Audience members attending in person will find the event at OVO Arena Wembley, while international viewers can watch the live broadcast on Netflix. The show will also be aired later in its regular slot on USA Network, offering multiple ways for fans to engage with the event.
