Carmelo Hayes’ WWE Backstage Reputation Detailed — Report

vishalbhawaniTue, August 18, 2026 at 3:42 AM UTC

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Carmelo Hayes may not be at the top of the WWE card right now. However, a new backstage report paints a much different picture of how he’s viewed within the company.

According to Fightful Select, the former United States Champion continues to garner strong praise behind the scenes, even as questions remain about his position on television.

Hayes has had an up-and-down run on the main roster in recent months. This has left some fans wondering where he truly stands.

Nevertheless, the latest report suggests his backstage reputation isn’t the issue. Moreover, the details may surprise those waiting for WWE to pull the trigger on “HIM.”

New report details Carmelo Hayes’ reputation behind the scenes in WWE

During a recent Fightful Select Q&A, Sean Ross Sapp was asked how Hayes is viewed backstage. According to Sapp, he has “never heard anything” negative regarding the former NXT standout from people within WWE.

Instead, Hayes has consistently been described in glowing terms.

“I’ve never heard anything about him being viewed negatively backstage. He’s always been referred to as dependable, professional, and with a lot of upside.”

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Sapp also suggested that WWE sometimes delays elevating talented performers, which can affect how fans perceive them over time.

“I think WWE definitely waits too long to pull the trigger on a lot of talent to their full potential, which is why people can develop longtime perceptions of wrestlers not being main eventers.”

The report also addressed Hayes’ standing with WWE leadership. While it has long been known that Shawn Michaels emerged as a strong supporter of Hayes during his NXT run, Sapp noted that doesn’t necessarily mean the same applies on the main roster.

“He was a favorite of Shawn Michaels in NXT, but that doesn’t always translate to being one of Triple H’s favorites.”

Hayes previously held the United States Championship for 98 days before losing the title to Sami Zayn in March. More recently, he unsuccessfully challenged Baron Corbin for the championship on last week’s episode of SmackDown.

For now, Fightful Select’s report indicates that Hayes’ standing backstage remains strong. The ball appears to be in WWE creative’s court. and fans will be watching closely to see if the company eventually cashes in on the confidence it reportedly has in one of its most dependable performers.

READ MORE: Chad Gable Holds off Rey Mysterio to Keep Intercontinental Title on WWE RAW

The post Carmelo Hayes’ WWE Backstage Reputation Detailed — Report appeared first on Wrestlezone.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”