In a night filled with electrifying matches and pivotal moments, the December 26, 2025 edition of WWE Friday Night SmackDown on the USA Network witnessed an unprecedented surge in viewership, thanks in large part to Carmelo Hayes’ monumental United States Title victory. According to Nielsen Media Research, the show drew an impressive 2.23 million viewers, marking a notable increase from the previous week’s numbers.
Carmelo Hayes Makes History with United States Title Win
The crowning jewel of the evening was undoubtedly Carmelo Hayes’ triumphant United States Title match against the reigning champion, Austin Theory. In a hard-hitting contest that pushed both competitors to their limits, Hayes emerged victorious, securing his first United States Title reign in the process. This monumental triumph not only validated Hayes’ exceptional in-ring prowess but also served as a testament to his unrelenting dedication to the craft.
“It’s a dream come true for Carmelo,” said a source close to the WWE champion. “He’s been working tirelessly behind the scenes, honing his skills and perfecting his craft. This victory is the culmination of all his hard work and perseverance – and we can’t wait to see what’s next for him.”
Dominant Performances and Thrilling Matches
Beyond Hayes’ historic United States Title win, the December 26 SmackDown was marked by several other outstanding performances. The likes of Rey Mysterio, Ricochet, and The Street Profits delivered scintillating matches, each showcasing their exceptional in-ring abilities and leaving the audience on the edge of their seats.
One particular standout was Rey Mysterio’s thrilling match against the formidable Dolph Ziggler. The highly technical contest saw both competitors exchange near-falls and showcasing their mastery of various grappling techniques. Although Mysterio ultimately fell short of victory, his relentless effort and unyielding determination made for a compelling watch.
Key Takeaways and Storylines to Watch
As the WWE Universe continues to buzz with excitement over Carmelo Hayes’ United States Title win, several key storylines emerged from the December 26 SmackDown. Notably, the intense rivalry between Hayes and Austin Theory is far from over, with both competitors locked in a bitter feud that promises to escalate in the coming weeks.
Moreover, the ongoing dynamics between The Street Profits and the formidable Undisputed Tag Team Champions, The Usos, remain a central focus of the SmackDown narrative. With The Street Profits’ relentless pursuit of the Undisputed Tag Team Titles, fans can expect a series of thrilling matches and intriguing developments in the weeks ahead.
WWE’s Holiday Season Success
The December 26 SmackDown marks the latest in a series of successful events from the WWE during the holiday season. With a surge in viewership and a plethora of electrifying matches, the company has undoubtedly capitalized on the festive spirit to deliver an unforgettable experience for its devoted fan base.
As the WWE prepares for its upcoming pay-per-view events, including the Royal Rumble and WrestleMania, fans can expect an even more exciting and unpredictable ride. With Carmelo Hayes’ historic United States Title win serving as a catalyst, the WWE Universe is poised for an unforgettable year of action-packed storylines, thrilling matches, and unforgettable moments.
Final Thoughts
As the dust settles on another thrilling episode of SmackDown, one thing is clear: the WWE has entered a new era of excitement and unpredictability. With Carmelo Hayes’ United States Title win setting the stage for a host of compelling storylines, fans can rest assured that the next few weeks will be filled with electrifying matches, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments.
As one WWE insider noted, “The Carmelo Hayes era has officially begun, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this rising star. With his sights set firmly on the top, the WWE Universe is in for a wild ride.”