As the United States Champion, Carmelo Hayes has been on a roll in the WWE, consistently delivering high-energy performances and impressive victories in the ring. However, the young star attributes his success to valuable lessons learned from two of the company’s top stars: Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns. In an exclusive interview, Hayes sat down with us to discuss the key takeaways he’s gained from his experiences with these wrestling icons.
A Champion’s Mindset
Carmelo Hayes’ journey to the top has been nothing short of meteoric. The 25-year-old talent has quickly become a fan favorite, thanks in part to his charisma, athleticism, and ability to connect with the audience. According to sources close to Hayes, his dedication to honing his craft is unparalleled. “Carmelo is a sponge,” said a WWE insider. “He’s always looking for ways to improve, whether it’s in the ring, on the microphone, or in the gym. He’s got a drive that’s rare in this business.”
One of the key lessons Hayes has learned from Cody Rhodes is the importance of maintaining a consistent champion’s mindset. Rhodes, known for his intense focus and unwavering dedication to his craft, has been a mentor to Hayes in many ways. “Cody’s taught me that being a champion isn’t just about winning titles or accolades,” Hayes explained. “It’s about carrying yourself with confidence and humility, every single day. He’s shown me that the minute you let your guard down is the minute someone’s gonna take advantage of you.”
Hayes has taken Rhodes’ advice to heart, often citing his mentor as an example of how to conduct himself in the WWE. Whether he’s facing off against a top rival or simply navigating the daily grind of a WWE Superstar, Hayes strives to embody the same level of professionalism and dedication that Rhodes has come to embody.
The Power of Vulnerability
Roman Reigns, one of the most dominant forces in the WWE, has also had a profound impact on Hayes’ career. The Big Dog’s ability to connect with the audience on a deeper level has been a key factor in his enduring success, and Hayes has taken note. “Roman’s taught me that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness,” Hayes revealed. “When you’re willing to be vulnerable, it creates a connection with the audience that’s hard to replicate. People respond to authenticity, and Roman’s always been unafraid to show his emotions and be himself, even in the face of adversity.”
Hayes has applied this lesson to his own performances, often incorporating elements of vulnerability into his promos and matches. By being willing to be open and honest, he’s been able to create a strong bond with the audience, which has helped him build a loyal following.
The Art of Adaptation
As a wrestler, Carmelo Hayes is constantly adapting to new situations and opponents. Whether it’s facing a new rival or navigating the ever-changing landscape of the WWE, Hayes has learned to be agile and adjust on the fly. This ability to adapt has been crucial in his success, and both Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns have played a role in shaping his approach.
“Cody’s taught me the importance of being flexible in the ring,” Hayes said. “You can’t just stick to one thing and expect to succeed – you’ve got to be willing to adapt and evolve. Whether it’s a new opponent or a new situation, you’ve got to be able to adjust and find a way to win.” Roman Reigns, on the other hand, has shown Hayes the value of being willing to take risks and try new things. “Roman’s always pushing the envelope and trying new things in the ring,” Hayes noted. “He’s taught me that sometimes the best way to succeed is to take a chance and see what happens.”
A Bright Future Ahead
As Carmelo Hayes continues to rise through the ranks of the WWE, it’s clear that he’s been well-equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed. His experiences with Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns have been instrumental in shaping his approach to the business, and he’s taken their lessons to heart.
As he looks to the future, Hayes is excited to see what’s in store for him. With a newfound sense of confidence and a wealth of knowledge to draw from, he’s poised to become one of the top stars in the WWE. “I’m just taking it one step at a time,” Hayes said with a smile. “I’m focused on being the best version of myself, both in and out of the ring. Whatever the future holds, I’m ready for it.”
Only time will tell what the future holds for Carmelo Hayes, but one thing is certain – with the lessons he’s learned from Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns, he’s well-positioned for greatness.