New Match Added to January 30 WWE SmackDown

Just hours before the final WWE SmackDown episode ahead of the Royal Rumble, WWE has confirmed a major development: Carmelo Hayes will defend the United States Championship in an open challenge.

The announcement was made via WWE’s official webside. Hayes, who’s been branding himself as a “fighting champion” ever since capturing the U.S. Title, is once again putting his gold on the line—this time from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

“Fighting champion Carmelo Hayes has issued another United States Title Open Challenge,” WWE said in its announcement. “Who will step into the spotlight to attempt to dethrone Him? Find out tonight at 8e/7c on SmackDown on USA.”

WWE SmackDown Lineup (1/30)

• Drew McIntyre to appear
• Carmelo Hayes US Title Open Challenge

Be sure to tune in live and follow along with Ringside News for full play-by-play coverage over in our SmackDown results section.

Who do you think will answer Carmelo Hayes’ open challenge—and could we see a surprise title change right before the Rumble? Drop your predictions below!