Is Carmelo Hayes leaving WWE amid ongoing absence from programming?
(Courtesy : WWE)
Carmelo Hayes’ social media activity sparks WWE exit rumors.
After a spectacular Money in the Bank PLE, things are getting real now. Multiple storylines got pushed in the Stamford-based promotion. Amid this, there is another speculation over the departure of a possible WWE star: Carmelo Hayes.
The A-Champion has sparked fresh speculation about his WWE future after making a cryptic change to his social media profile amid an extended absence from television.
The former United States Champion blacked out his profile picture on X (formerly Twitter), prompting questions about whether he could be preparing for a major career change.
Catch Every Update, Anytime, Anywhere
Current status of Carmelo Hayes’ WWE contract
The first deal signed by Hayes in WWE was in February 2021. With his subsequent call-up to the main roster in 2024, Hayes‘ contract has since been modified to have the regular main roster terms, including having an increased baseline salary.
His last appearance on any live event was when he featured in a very important singles match on SmackDown in August against Baron Corbin, failing to capture the WWE United States Championship. He has not appeared anywhere on weekly WWE programming ever since.
As far as is known, no news of Hayes quitting WWE exists at the moment. This became obvious as the wrestler found it hard to stick around WWE programming, but there is one other option left for the wrestler, who is 32 years old now.
AEW star Andrade El Idolo added another layer to the discussion about a potential move away from WWE following his special efforts to grab attention to Hayes’ situation.
Andrade’s message fuels AEW speculation
The possibility of Hayes joining AEW gained attention in September when Andrade posted a message directed at his former WWE rival on X.
“Where are you Amigo?” Andrade wrote, tagging Hayes in the post. The message came after Hayes’ loss to Corbin and appeared to draw attention to his limited television appearances.
Andrade El Idolo returned to AEW following his healthy rivalry with Hayes in WWE. The two shared space in the mid-card section, which was well received by fans. Now Andrade has established himself in AEW’s championship picture and has even shared a message on social media, highlighting Hayes’ long absence.
His public message has encouraged speculation about a possible reunion, but he has not confirmed that Hayes is considering a move, nor has Hayes publicly indicated that he intends to join AEW.
Also, according to a recent report from Fightful Select, MJF has significant influence over the storylines in which he is directly involved and contributes creatively to some extent. If Hayes were ever to join AEW, his athletic ability, microphone skills, and previous rivalry with Andrade could provide several creative possibilities.
A potential programme involving established names such as MJF could also offer opportunities to showcase Hayes in a different environment. Notably, MJF also shared an image on his IG story of himself and Hayes when Carmelo wrestled under the name of Christian Casanova on the indies.
However, there is no reported connection between MJF’s creative influence and Hayes’ WWE absence. There is also no indication that MJF has requested Hayes’ signing or that AEW has approached him. Any suggestion that the two could work together remains hypothetical.
Is Carmelo Hayes leaving WWE?
Carmelo Hayes might have blacked out his ‘X’ profile picture, but there is no confirmation of his departure from WWE as of October 11.
Is Carmelo Hayes joining AEW?
Although there are rumors around possibility of Carmelo Hayes joining AEW in near future, neither parties have confirmed the interest.
For more updates, follow Khel Now Wrestling on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Telegram & Whatsapp.