10 New Main Event Megastars WWE Are Secretly Building
6. Carmelo Hayes
Admittedly, the SmackDown creative team's handling of ex-NXT favourite Carmelo Hayes has been spotty thus far. He was on a mini losing streak before working a feud vs. Andrade, but that doesn't tell the full story; Hayes was staring at the lights to top names like Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton early doors. That's hardly anything to worry about.
The rivalry opposite 'El Idolo' has been good for both, but it'll stand Melo in good stead longer term. He's the priority here, not Andrade. WWE must know they don't need to rush with Hayes, but also do need to keep him ticking over with credibility in the eyes of an audience prone to losing faith quickly.
That's tricky, but achievable.
Hayes exudes confidence out there, both in-ring and on the mic. All he needs is that one killer moment as a heel to really explode and start gathering momentum. Triple H would do well to lean on advice from old pal Shawn Michaels there. HBK already squeezed the best from Carmelo on NXT, so he knows his strengths and weaknesses.