Triple H to turn popular WWE star heel & put major title on him following SmackDown? Possibility explored

Triple H presented an impactful episode of WWE SmackDown this week. But one of the key highlights of the show involved a popular WWE star. Since then, there have been speculations about their heel turn on SmackDown down the line.

The Game could be planning to turn Carmelo Hayes heel on SmackDown moving forward. The former NXT Champion faced Ilja Dragunov for the United States Championship. However, in the closing sequence of the match, Hayes got screwed by Tommaso Ciampa. Unintentionally, Dragunov used this opening to score a win against the 31-year-old star.

Hayes could be frustrated with Dragunov for using cheap tactics to win the match. Although The Mad Dragon was oblivious to Ciampa's involvement. In the coming weeks, Carmelo might challenge Ilja once again for the United States Championship. However, this time, he could use underhanded tactics to score the victory and become the new champion.

Such an angle could lead to Carmelo Hayes' heel turn in WWE. Besides, a title win could drastically elevate his character in the Stamford-based promotion. Additionally, it could open the door for a new chapter in his feud with Dragunov. Moreover, it has been noticed that Hayes thrives on the cocky heel persona in WWE. Therefore, pivoting him back to the heel could be a wise decision.

Nonetheless, it is just a speculation at the moment. Only time will tell what Triple H has in store for Carmelo Hayes on WWE SmackDown.

Triple H to put Carmelo Hayes in the Royal Rumble match?

Triple H has been giving extra focus to Carmelo Hayes in his recent matches in WWE. The Game has given incredible opportunities to the former NXT Champion to steal the spotlight in his matches against stars like Gunther and Bronson Reed. Therefore, there are chances that HHH could kick off Hayes' year with another major, impactful performance in the Royal Rumble match.

WWE can put the 31-year-old star in the Rumble match to give him an 'Iron Man' performance. He could remain in the ring for the longest time, once again proving his resilience in the ring. It could give him an instant push if he can withstand top stars like Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre in such a high-stakes match.

Besides, it can be an impressive beginning of the road to WrestleMania 42 for Carmelo in the year 2026. It could help him secure a significant match for himself at the Show of Shows in Las Vegas next year. Therefore, there is a good possibility that Triple H would keep Carmelo in the Royal Rumble match.