Carmelo Hayes Reflects on His NXT Success and Future Goals
Summary
– Carmelo Hayes, a standout talent in WWE NXT, discusses his journey, including winning the NXT Breakout Tournament and the NXT Championship.
– He talks about his approach to success, his toughest opponents, and his relationship with Trick Williams.
– Hayes also shares insights on the camaraderie among black wrestlers in WWE and his thoughts on joining a reformed Hurt Business.
Carmelo Hayes, a prominent figure in WWE NXT, opened up about his wrestling journey and future aspirations in an interview with Vibe. Since winning the NXT Breakout Tournament in 2021 and later the NXT Championship, Hayes has become a key player in NXT, ushering in a new era for the brand. He emphasized his unrelenting drive for success, recalling how he told Shawn Michaels he wanted to be a top guy after his first match.
Hayes’ tenure as NXT Champion, lasting 182 days before losing to Ilja Dragunov, was marked by challenges against formidable opponents like Bron Breakker, Wes Lee, Ricochet, and Finn Balor. He described Dragunov as a different breed, highlighting the intensity of their matches.
An intriguing aspect of Hayes’ story is his relationship with Trick Williams. While Hayes has proven himself, he believes it’s time for Williams to step up and shed the sidekick label. Their friendship hit a rough patch, with suspicions arising about Hayes’ involvement in an attack on Williams before a crucial match.
Hayes also spoke about the camaraderie among black wrestlers in WWE, praising veterans like Booker T and MVP for their mentorship. He expressed enthusiasm about possibly joining a reformed Hurt Business but emphasized his focus on NXT and his current goals.
Reflecting on the pressures of being a champion, Hayes acknowledged the high expectations and scrutiny that come with the title. He thrives under pressure and is determined to reclaim the NXT Championship while navigating the tension with Williams.
Carmelo Hayes’ interview offers a glimpse into his mindset as a rising star in WWE NXT. His journey, marked by significant achievements and evolving relationships, showcases his dedication to wrestling and his ambition to continue impacting the industry.