Carmelo Hayes was never close to leaving WWE, according to PWInsider, despite rumors that spread on social media in recent weeks while he was off television.
The report says that WWE never discussed releasing Hayes and that his move to Raw and into The 946 had long been planned.
WWE creative reportedly cut back Hayes’ TV time on purpose to give his return more impact. The strategy ended up fueling speculation about his future, especially after he blacked out his X profile and removed references to WWE from his bio.
Hayes returned on Monday’s Raw, attacking Solo Sikoa and helping The 946 against The Bloodline. He had been off television since Aug. 14, when he lost to Baron Corbin in a WWE United States Championship match.
Royce Keys reportedly asked WWE personally to add Hayes to The 946. Before that change, creative plans had reportedly called for Hayes to stay in the United States Championship picture, with a possible title win over Trick Williams.
Hayes is now part of one of Raw’s top feuds, alongside Keys, Bronco Nima, Lucien Price and Jaida Parker.
The 946’s next major goal could be a match against The Bloodline at Survivor Series: WarGames, which is set for Nov. 28 at Daikin Park in Houston.