Drowned in chants of “This is awesome,” there is a ticking clock that signals Carmelo Hayes’ time as United States Champion is almost up.
Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov in a thrilling battle on Friday’s SmackDown to retain the title. It was his eighth televised defense since winning the gold at a TV taping on Dec. 19. His win also marked both the most successful title defenses and the longest title reign since the return of the U.S. Title Open Challenge last summer.
Tick, Tock
The Open Challenge, first introduced by John Cena in 2015, returned after Sami Zayn captured the U.S. title from Solo Sikoa at the end of August. Although Zayn held the belt for just 48 days, he successfully defended it six times before losing to a returning Dragunov in October. Dragunov then turned back seven challengers over the next 70 days before falling to Hayes in his eighth defense.
By the numbers: Zayn fell on his seventh defense, and Dragunov on his eighth. With eight defenses behind him, Hayes’ next defense could be his last.
However, if Hayes can keep the title past next Friday, he’ll surpass 100 days as champion, the longest reign since LA Knight’s 118-day run in 2024. The last six title holders averaged just 64 days as champ. Hayes’ run is a rare stretch of stability that could set up a career-defining moment, possibly at WrestleMania, for his eventual successor — whomever that may be.
Sound Off
What do you make of Carmelo Hayes’ run as United States Champion, Cagesiders? Will he make it to WrestleMania as champ, and who do you think will finally get the drop on Melo? Sound off in the comments section.
