Follow on Google News Carmelo Hayes credits The Miz as a crucial backstage mentor. Speaking to Good Karma Wrestling, the United States Champion detailed how the 22-year veteran helped him navigate WWE‘s emotional highs and lows.
“He’s a necessary person to have around,” Hayes explained. The SmackDown superstar recalled thanking his recent rival directly for this guidance. When the champion felt lost, Miz provided perspective by drawing from his own experiences across every card position.
The titleholder shared specific advice he received regarding career positioning. “He said, ‘When you’re at the top it’s gonna be easy because you figured out how to manage at the bottom.'” Miz reassured him that standout performers eventually get their opportunity.
These two men recently worked closely on television. They formed the brief “Melo Don’t Miz” tag team in early February 2026 before their alliance dissolved. That split led to a February 6 SmackDown clash, where Hayes successfully retained his championship.
Hayes is now ending his open challenges to secure a spot at the February 28 Elimination Chamber. Meanwhile, his former partner went winless in singles matches throughout 2025 and recently confronted Randy Orton over perceived locker room disrespect.