Sami Zayn has been struggling lately, getting a hold of his emotions as well as winning back the love of the WWE crowd. On the April 17, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown, when Zayn started walking to the ring with the United States title, fans started chanting, “We Want Melo!” showing support for Carmelo Hayes instead.
As the segment began, Trick Williams kicked things off seriously, calling out Zayn for attacking Lil Yachty with a Helluva Kick the week before. He said it wasn’t just personal; it also affected his business, since Yachty won’t be part of his WrestleMania entrance now.
Then he called out the Canadian to sort things right then and there. A gingerbread man mascot came into the ring as Zayn’s music hit, and Williams jokingly introduced it as Sami Zayn. It was also a nod to his recent shots and diss track on Zayn.
Fans chant for Carmelo Hayes during Sami Zayn’s SmackDown segment
When the real Sami Zayn came out, instead of cheers, he got boos. And as he was climbing up the ring stairs, he got “We Want Melo!” chants.
Zayn said he doesn’t know what he has done wrong to be booed. He then tried to ignore it, saying he didn’t care and that he was fighting for the fans who had always supported him.
However, he sounded a bit frustrated. Even though he is the champion going into WrestleMania, he admitted he hasn’t been enjoying things lately. He then turned to Williams, first praising him, then calling him an unproven rookie.
Williams fired back, saying he is “the plan” and that Zayn is cracking under pressure. Soon after, both men started fighting in the ring.
After the US Champion put Williams out of the ring, he hit the gingerbread man mascot with a Helluva Kick. But right after that, Williams took advantage and hit Zayn with the Trickshot, then stood tall holding the United States title.
The crowd cheering for Carmelo Hayes has a reason. Hayes, who had a strong 91-day title run, lost the title to Zayn in a controversial way involving Williams’ interference. Many fans feel he deserves a spot at WrestleMania, which is why they were supporting him.
Read More: Sami Zayn Pulls Kendrick Lamar Into Trick Williams Feud Ahead of WWE WrestleMania 42
