Carmelo Hayes’ shocking decision to join 946 on the October 12 edition of RAW wasn’t just a surprise for fans. According to Royce Keys, it was the perfect fit.
Speaking to The Takedown on SI, Keys finally addressed Hayes becoming the newest member of the group. While he stopped short of revealing exactly how the alliance came together, he made it clear this wasn’t a random addition and hinted that fans are about to see a completely different version of the former NXT Champion.
Keys revealed that his relationship with Hayes goes back long before either of them reached WWE. In his eyes, Hayes has always had an aggressive side that most fans haven’t gotten to see.
“Melo’s always been my boy. Before this even came up, before WWE. I know how he is. He’s just like a pit bull. He’s got a little Tyson in him that some people haven’t seen. The world got a taste of it Monday night, so it’s just one of those things that, you know, it’s like a pot of gumbo. You got all your ingredients and you’re seasoning it, and once it’s together, you know, it’s just a chef’s kiss.”
While there have been reports claiming Keys personally pushed for Hayes to join 946, he wouldn’t confirm or deny them. Instead, he focused on how much trust WWE has shown the faction, saying every member has earned their spot.
“Just being featured on some of the heavy segments, you know, the trust and value, week after week, it means a lot. It definitely lets me know I’m doing the right thing. Everyone in The 946, Jada, Lucien, Bronco, Melo now, we’re all doing the right things. We’re all on the same page and everyone in this group is handpicked.”
Keys also suggested Hayes’ arrival is only the beginning. With WarGames potentially looming against The Bloodline, he hinted there could still be another surprise ingredient added to the mix before the group is finished evolving.
Perhaps the biggest tease came when Keys was asked what fans should expect from Hayes now that he’s part of 946. According to him, this won’t be the same Carmelo Hayes fans watched on NXT or SmackDown.
“It’s gonna give him a different side. It’s given me a different side. It’s given Bronco, Lucien and Jada, you know, everyone’s gonna see a different side of all of us. Those three numbers mean something, and something we say every single week: 946 means ain’t nobody safe.”
Hayes already sent his own warning to WWE after RAW, posting, “The reports of my demise have been greatly exaggerated. Ain’t Nobody Safe.” Now, it sounds like that message wasn’t just a slogan. If Keys is to be believed, joining 946 is about to bring out a version of Carmelo Hayes that fans haven’t seen before.
Do you think joining 946 will take Carmelo Hayes to the next level? Let us know in the comments below.
