New US Champ Sami Zayn to Address Title Reign on SmackDown

Zayn regained the title from Carmelo Hayes last week, but some fans are unhappy with the change.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:03pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a WWE wrestling match or celebration, with the figures and elements broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the raw energy and drama of the sport.Sami Zayn's United States title win sparks debate over WWE's WrestleMania plansSt. Louis Today

New United States Champion Sami Zayn will appear on tonight's episode of WWE SmackDown to address his recent title win and upcoming WrestleMania defense against Trick Williams. Zayn's title victory over Carmelo Hayes last week has drawn some backlash from fans who felt Hayes deserved a WrestleMania moment, and WWE is expected to address that reaction.

Why it matters

Zayn's United States title reign is a key storyline leading into WrestleMania, and how WWE handles the fan reaction to Hayes losing the belt will be closely watched. The company is also looking to build momentum for Zayn's title defense against Williams at the biggest event of the year.

The details

Zayn regained the United States Championship from Carmelo Hayes last Friday on SmackDown. During his previous title reign from August to October 2025, Zayn instituted an open challenge series that was continued by Hayes and Ilja Dragunov. It's unclear if Zayn plans to do the same this time around. Williams appeared on the Mornings with Mero radio show this week and said he believes Hayes 'deserves' a WrestleMania moment, hoping that Hayes ends up getting one.

  • Zayn won the United States title last Friday, April 28, 2026.
  • There are only 3 SmackDown episodes left before WrestleMania 42 on April 6, 2026.

The players

Sami Zayn

The new WWE United States Champion, who regained the title from Carmelo Hayes last week.

Carmelo Hayes

The former United States Champion, who lost the title to Zayn and has drawn some fan backlash for not being included in WWE's WrestleMania plans.

Trick Williams

Zayn's upcoming challenger for the United States Championship at WrestleMania 42.

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What they’re saying

“Carmelo Hayes deserves a WrestleMania moment and I hope that he ends up getting one.”

— Trick Williams, Wrestler

What’s next

Sami Zayn will defend the United States Championship against Trick Williams at WrestleMania 42 on April 6, 2026.

The takeaway

Sami Zayn's United States title win has drawn some mixed reactions, with fans feeling that former champion Carmelo Hayes deserved a WrestleMania moment. How WWE handles this backlash and builds towards Zayn's title defense against Trick Williams at the biggest event of the year will be a key storyline to watch in the coming weeks.