Carmelo Hayes has had interest invested in him from the get-go from the legendary “Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels, as “HBK” believes that the NXT star is something special.
In early 2021, Hayes agreed to a contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), and soon afterwards, his stardom skyrocketed when he made his June debut in NXT. Since joining the gold, black and white brand, Hayes has been credited as a two-time NXT North American Champion, as well as becoming one of the biggest stars in WWE’s developmental brand.
Shawn Michaels Is “Certainly” A Fan Of Carmelo Hayes
Jon Alba questioned WWE Vice President of Talent Development Creative Shawn Michaels regarding Carmelo Hayes during the NXT Halloween Havoc media call. The “Heartbreak” Kid said that he had interest in Hayes from the beginning of his time in WWE, and wanted him on television as soon as possible. Shawn Michaels went on to say that Hayes is a special kind of talent, that sky is the limit for the 57-year-old.
“I have taken interest in Melo from day one. I got him on television as quickly as I could. At the time, I believe it was still 205 Live. I was talking to him and I said, ‘I just want to get you out there, get you in front of the people and in front of Hunter.’ He said, ‘I don’t want to be living in 205.’ ‘I know. For me, it’s more important to get you out there so everyone can see that this kid can go.’ Carmelo and I get along great. He’s a good kid and I think the sky is the limit for him. He’s special. He’s talented.”
Shawn Michaels also shared his view that Carmelo Hayes is ready for the WWE main roster.
“We have a lot of talks and I gave him the same line that I was given many years ago, which is to go ahead and push the envelope, go out there, let me pull you back, and he does. I’ve seen that he’s mentioned it. ‘Shawn has had to pull me back a couple of times.’ That is true. He never complains about it. He’s a pro, and I like that about him as well. He has a lot of charisma, a lot of ability, a lot of attitude, but he’s a respectful young man.
That’s what is so great about a lot of people down here. We have some really talented people and they are darn good men and women of character too. He is ready anytime someone wants him. Of course, he’s only going to get better. Can he always learn more? You bet, all of us can, but he’s certainly ready whenever they want to take him. He’s going to go up there and be with people better than him and that’s how you improve in this line of work.”