Sat Dec 13 01:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:

Carmelo Hayes challenged Ilja Dragunov for the United States Championship on SmackDown but failed to win after interference from Tommaso Ciampa. Dragunov, unaware of Ciampa’s interference, agreed to defend his title against Ciampa next week after seeing what transpired. Tama Tonga also hinted at a future challenge for the championship. The article speculates whether Dragunov will be dethroned soon.

News Article:

Ciampa’s “Jackass” Antics Cost Carmelo Hayes US Title Shot, Set Up Dragunov Showdown

SmackDown, Dec. 5, 2023 – Ilja Dragunov retained his United States Championship on tonight’s SmackDown after a hard-fought battle against Carmelo Hayes, but the victory came with controversy. The match was marred by interference from Tommaso Ciampa, who has been relentlessly dubbed a “jackass” by Dragunov in recent weeks.

Hayes, who has struggled to capture championship gold on the main roster, seemed poised to break the losing streak against Dragunov. However, Ciampa’s actions ultimately cost Hayes the match, though Dragunov didn’t realize that Ciampa actually helped him retain.

Upon realizing Ciampa’s involvement, an incensed Dragunov immediately demanded a title defense against Ciampa next week, a challenge that was swiftly accepted. Following the announcement, Tama Tonga appeared, hinting at his own future pursuit of the United States Championship.

The upcoming Dragunov vs. Ciampa match promises to be explosive, and the looming presence of Tama Tonga adds another layer of intrigue to the United States Championship picture. Will Dragunov’s reign continue, or will either Ciampa or Tonga be the one to dethrone “The Mad Dragon”? WWE Universe will have to wait and see.

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