Carmelo Hayes has opened up about the decision to keep him in NXT.
Hayes began his career back in 2014, and after starring on the independent scene, he signed with WWE in 2021. The star quickly made a name for himself in NXT, winning the Cruiserweight, North American titles within two years.
Hayes’ progress caught the eye of not only fans but other WWE stars, with Big E tipping him to become World Champion.
This rise meant that many expected Hayes to be called up to the main roster during the WWE Draft in May 2023. However, the star remained in NXT where he continued to impress.
During a new interview with The Messenger, Hayes reflected on not being called up, recalling Shawn Michaels telling him he wasn’t ready.
“He gave me a really good analogy – ‘I don’t want you to start building your roof when you haven’t laid the groundwork yet.
‘You’re already trying to put in your windows and you haven’t even finished doing your thing.’
That’s where we’re at now. I was like, ‘Yeah, let me continue to build brick by brick by brick,’ When I’m able to get to that point where it’s time to put a roof on this thing, I’ll go to the main roster and start building that roof.”
Despite remaining in NXT, Hayes made his main roster debut on Raw in June where he was defeated by Finn Balor.
Carmelo Hayes Will Be In Action At No Mercy
Hayes will make the next defence of his NXT Title at No Mercy on September 30th when he takes on Ilja Dragunov. The contest will be one of five title matches on the card, with all of the brand’s major titles on the line.