Rumors suggesting that Carmelo Hayes would be taking time off from WWE following his United States Championship loss have been debunked.
Speculation began after Hayes dropped the title to Sami Zayn on SmackDown, with Trick Williams playing a key role in the outcome. Williams turned on Hayes during the match, striking him and allowing Zayn to capitalize for the pinfall victory. The sudden loss and betrayal quickly led fans to believe Hayes might be written off television.
Carmelo Hayes WWE Status
Adding fuel to the rumors were viral photos circulating online that appeared to show Hayes getting married to Kelani Jordan. However, a report from BodySlam has clarified that the images were actually from an engagement photoshoot, not a wedding ceremony.
Hayes and Jordan are indeed engaged, but they have not tied the knot. As a result, the idea that Hayes is stepping away from WWE programming for a wedding or honeymoon is inaccurate.
Despite the title change, Hayes is not currently scheduled to take time off as WWE builds toward WrestleMania 42. While his immediate creative direction has not been officially confirmed, the angle with Williams presents a clear path forward. The betrayal sets the stage for a likely feud between the former allies in the coming weeks.
Hayes’ United States Championship reign lasted 98 days after he won the title from Ilja Dragunov on the December 19, 2025 episode of SmackDown.
With WrestleMania 42 scheduled for April 18 and 19 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Hayes remains part of WWE’s plans heading into one of the biggest events of the year, even as questions remain about how his storyline will unfold following the shocking turn by Williams.
Backstage News on Carmelo Hayes WWE Status Following Title Loss
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