WWE takes their talent’s safety very seriously, especially in today’s climate where there is such a microscope on them. During the January 12th episode of SmackDown, one match needed to be called off abruptly after a botched spot.
"A-Town DOWN BAD tonight, Austin." ?
It's official: @Carmelo_WWE vs. @_Theory1 TONIGHT on #SmackDown! pic.twitter.com/pdTILgjK5u
— WWE (@WWE) January 13, 2024
The Botched Spot on SmackDown
During the recent episode of SmackDown, a match involving Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes encountered a mishap, prompting the officials to halt the proceedings. Things were going well at first, but the referee wasted no time calling for the bell after they both went crashing awkwardly to the mat.
How can anybody keep up with @Carmelo_WWE? Look at him go! ???@_Theory1 has his work cut out for him! #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/USCrscCvUn
— WWE (@WWE) January 13, 2024
During the match, Theory and Hayes pulled off a maneuver from the top rope, but the execution didn’t unfold as intended. Both wrestlers landed unsafely, and the referee ended the match. It looked like they were trying for a Spanish fly-type move, but it did not end well.
Post-landing, Hayes remained motionless, while Theory did stir a bit more than the former NXT Champion. They were concerned on commentary, but commended the official for calling off the contest in rapid fashion.
Damn that looked nasty… I hope Carmelo Hayes and Austin Theory are ok.. ?? #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/VJ106YpnoE
— Public Enemies Podcast (@TheEnemiesPE3) January 13, 2024
Grayson Waller swiftly entered the ring, accompanied by WWE medical personnel, to attend to the situation. They did not provide any updates, but did say that they would be posted when made available.
This is a very new situation, so we have no prognosis at this time. We will update this article accordingly whenever we hear any updates.
Hayes has a match booked for NXT next week. Set for the upcoming NXT episode are two more matchups in the 2024 NXT Men’s Dusty Rhodes Tag-Team Classic Tournament. The scheduled matches feature Carmelo Hayes & Trick Williams facing off against Malik Blade & Edris Enofe, along with a clash between Chase U and LWO.
WWE Update on Austin Theory & Carmelo Hayes
WWE has issued a statement to update fans about the situation following the sudden match conclusion on SmackDown.
both wrestlers sustained face contusions. It seems that is the only damage they sustained, so both Melo and Theory will be okay.
UPDATE: Following their match tonight on #SmackDown, @_Theory1 and @Carmelo_WWE were evaluated for injuries. They both suffered face contusions, and will both be okay.
— WWE (@WWE) January 13, 2024
Carmelo Hayes also updated fans after that scary spot. He didn’t use any words, but the animated gif of The Undertaker springing out of his casket gave us all the info we needed. Melo doesn’t miss, and he’s very much okay after that spot.
— Carmelo Hayes (@Carmelo_WWE) January 13, 2024