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Sami Zayn Wins U.S. Title on SmackDown to Book WrestleMania Defense

Interference from Trick Williams during Carmelo Hayes' open challenge prompted GM Nick Aldis to name Zayn's WrestleMania opponent.

Overview

  • Sami Zayn, who answered Carmelo Hayes' open challenge Friday, won the United States Championship from a champion who had held the belt since late 2025.
  • Trick Williams grabbed the belt, distracted the referee, then accidentally punched Hayes, which let Zayn hit a Helluva Kick for the pin.
  • Earlier in the show, GM Nick Aldis told Zayn he had no WrestleMania spot, then awarded Trick Williams a match at the event.
  • After the title change, Aldis booked Zayn to defend the U.S. Championship against Williams at WrestleMania 42.
  • Wrestling outlets including WrestleVotes via Fightful reported the planned title switch hours before the broadcast, which the show later confirmed.