NXT Champion Hayes Retains Title After a Grueling Battle with Ilja Dragunov

After a grueling battle at the NXT Great American Bash, Carmelo Hayes emerged victorious, retaining his NXT Championship against Ilja Dragunov. The match, described as one of the toughest Hayes has ever had, saw both competitors pushing their limits, but it was Hayes who managed to secure the win.

Hayes, in a post-match interview, acknowledged the intensity of the fight, stating, “Fights like that against guys like that really deter me, you as a champion. And I don’t think I’m the same champion that I was when I walked in here. I don’t think I’m the same man that I was when I walked in here.” He also gave a shout-out to Dragunov, calling him one of the toughest opponents he’s ever faced.

Despite the pain, Hayes remains the NXT Champion, stating, “But at the end of the day, I still remain him.” The match has left fans and critics alike in awe, with many praising the performance of both wrestlers.