Has former NXT Champion's main roster brand subtly been confirmed? What we know so far

Over the years, several NXT Superstars have been called up to the main roster. While some have exited WWE since then, others have found success on the main roster. Even the current batch of wrestlers on the former black and gold brand has multiple wrestlers capable of making their debut on RAW or SmackDown.

One such superstar whose move to the main roster has been subtly confirmed is Carmelo Hayes. A few weeks ago, Hayes competed in the United States Championship Contendership tournament. While he won his first-round match against Grayson Waller, he eventually lost to Kevin Owens.

However, this did not stop the former NXT Champion from making another appearance on WWE SmackDown tonight. During the ongoing episode of the blue brand, Hayes was seen talking to Nick Aldis and expressing his desire to be part of the Royal Rumble. After some back and forth between Hayes and A-Town-Down Under, the former was scheduled to face Austin Theory on the blue brand.

These hints are probably a sign that Carmelo Hayes has been called up to the main roster. If true, then several WWE fans will be happy as many wanted to see the NXT star make his main roster move. It will be interesting to see what Hayes achieves on the blue brand.

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Former NXT Champion Carmelo Hayes says he is open to joining SmackDown faction

On SmackDown, Bobby Lashley seems to be building an interesting faction. However, after the attack from Karrion Kross and the Authors of Pain, Lashley might want to add more members to his faction. One superstar who is ready to join Lashley and his team is Carmelo Hayes.

During a conversation with Vibe, Hayes revealed he wasn't necessarily chasing to be part of a faction. However, he also said that if Lashley wanted him to join, then he would be open to talking business. The former NXT Champion also spoke about the respect he has for The Almighty and the Street Profits. He said:

"Shoot, that'd be cool. Right now, I'm so focused on what I got going on here in NXT. It's going to take a lot more than just showing up and dapping me up to get me over there. I'm not thirsty for any membership. If they want me, they can holler at me, and we can talk business. Respect to them because they're my brothers for real."

When Bobby Lashley made his return on WWE SmackDown last year, Carmelo Hayes was one of the first men he spoke to. Hence, it will be interesting to see if he offers Hayes to join his faction.