A title modified hands throughout the “WWE SmackDown” taping on Friday night, while the December 19’s taped episode was airing live for fans at home across the globe. The show, taped from Grand Rapids, Michigan will air next Friday, December 26, as WWE stars will likely be home celebrating the vacations with their families.
In line with spoilers on X posted by various viewers and WWE fans present on the taping, Carmelo Hayes’ holiday arrived early, as he defeated United States Champion Ilja Dragnov for the gold on the show. Photos of the post-match angle show Dragunov putting the belt around Hayes’ waist.
It was revealed on Friday following Dragunov and Hayes’ tag team match against #DIY that Dragunov can be putting his title on the road in an open challenge once more, against a mystery opponent. It was Hayes to get the pin on Tommaso Ciampa on the show in Hershey.