Carmelo Hayes has reached a major milestone on WWE television, capturing his first championship on the main roster.

During tonight’s Smackdown broadcast, Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov to win the United States Championship. The closing moments saw Dragunov launch himself from the top rope in a bid to put the match away, only for Hayes to counter in midair with his First 48, a codebreaker that shifted the momentum instantly. Hayes capitalized, connecting with his Nothing But Net finishing maneuver to secure the pinfall and the title victory.

After taking the championship from the referee, Dragunov personally placed the United States Championship around Hayes’ waist.

However, the celebration was short lived. Backstage, as Hayes expressed his gratitude to Dragunov for the gesture, he was suddenly attacked by Johnny Gargano. Gargano left Hayes laid out. he vowed to take away everything the newly crowned champion has earned.

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