The highly publicized WWE tag team known as “Melo Don’t Miz,” featuring The Miz and Carmelo Hayes, officially ended their alliance on the October 3, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown. The split stems from weeks of growing tension between the two, culminating in a backstage confrontation and a surprise physical ambush later in the show. This breakup not only marks the end of a notable tag team but also signals a possible new chapter for Carmelo Hayes on WWE’s main roster.
The Fallout Begins Backstage on SmackDown
The seeds of dissolution were sown early in the broadcast during a tense backstage segment. The Miz confronted Carmelo Hayes about what he perceived as a lack of loyalty, specifically criticizing Hayes for failing to support him during last week’s number one contender’s match against The Street Profits. During that match, The Miz was pinned, and Hayes was seen watching rather than intervening. Miz accused Hayes of abandoning him when it mattered most.
In response, Hayes held firm and declared their partnership was over, bluntly telling Miz that he “should have kicked out” instead of expecting to be saved. This verbal confrontation set the tone for what was to come in the rest of the show and confirmed the split from Hayes’ perspective[1][2].
Physical Ambush Seals the Split
Later in the episode, The Miz took matters into his own hands by ambushing Carmelo Hayes in a sudden and brutal attack. This action shocked fans as it demonstrated Miz’s frustration turning violent, removing any hope of reconciliation. According to WWE footage, this ambush appeared to be a premeditated betrayal, further driving a wedge between the former tag partners[3][5].
The attack was a classic WWE storyline development often used to pivot tag team members into singles competitors, particularly setting Carmelo Hayes up for a fresh singles push.
Backstage Insights: A WWE Insider Weighs In
A WWE insider close to the creative team revealed that this split had been planned for several weeks to refresh both superstars’ trajectories. “They felt the chemistry was starting to feel forced, and with Carmelo’s rising star power, it was the perfect time for him to get a singles title opportunity,” the source said. “The Miz still has a lot of heat from his past runs, but together, they weren’t reaching their full potential.”
This insider insight aligns with Hayes’ recent performances, where he has demonstrated the ability to connect with the audience as a charismatic singles performer[1].
What This Means for Carmelo Hayes and The Miz
Carmelo Hayes’ Solo Future
The breakup positions Carmelo Hayes for a potential main roster singles title run. Given his experience as a former NXT North American and NXT Champion, WWE management appears ready to test his star quality outside the tag division. Hayes has already expressed on social media his excitement about focusing on his individual goals without the constraints of a partner[1].
WWE fans will be watching closely if Hayes receives a United States or Intercontinental Championship push in the near future, as many believe he has the in-ring talent and mic skills to become a top midcard or even main event player.
The Miz’s Role Post-Split
As for The Miz, the veteran superstar is likely to embrace the antagonist role. His physical attack on Hayes cements him once again as a heel antagonist. Positioned as a cunning and ruthless veteran, Miz could launch a singles feud with Hayes or pursue other rivalries on SmackDown to reinvigorate his character.
Sources suggest Miz’s upcoming storylines might focus on keeping him relevant while elevating fresh talent, precisely like Hayes[1][3].
Fan and Critical Reaction
The WWE Universe took to social media immediately after the show to express mixed reactions to the split. Some praised WWE’s decision to push Carmelo Hayes as a singles star, viewing it as long overdue, while others lamented the loss of “Melo Don’t Miz” as a unique and entertaining tag team dynamic.
Critics at Fightful and 411mania lauded the storytelling on SmackDown for its classic slow-burn tension culminating in a dramatic betrayal, a staple of wrestling narratives that resonate well with viewers[1][2].
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
The immediate future of this storyline appears to center on the brewing rivalry between The Miz and Carmelo Hayes, potentially leading to a singles match that settles their bitter split in the ring. With WWE’s recent focus on elevating young stars, many expect Hayes to emerge as one of SmackDown’s premier faces.
Moreover, this dissolution could trigger a reshuffling of the WWE tag team division, allowing other duos to step into the spotlight as Hayes and Miz focus on singles ambitions.
In summary, the official split between Carmelo Hayes and The Miz on the October 3rd SmackDown episode marks a significant moment in WWE programming. It ends a relatively short-lived but compelling partnership and sets the stage for new individual storylines for both superstars. With a backstage source confirming the planned nature of this split to freshen both their career paths, fans can anticipate dynamic singles competition moving forward.
Stay tuned for upcoming SmackDown episodes, where this storyline will undoubtedly evolve and new title opportunities may emerge for Carmelo Hayes.