Randy Orton's SmackDown opponent says everything will change tonight

The May 17, 2024 episode of Friday Night SmackDown will see Randy Orton collide with Carmelo Hayes. Both superstars will square off against each other for the quarterfinal round of the King of the Ring Tournament.

Interestingly, the freshly promoted developmental star has taunted The Viper via a tweet on X.

“After tonight the three most dangerous letters will be H I M 👑”

WWE SmackDown started today’s episode with a teaser in which a commentator said that the letters RKO were the three most dangerous ones in sports entertainment. Carmelo Hayes' tweet directly targeted that praise for Randy Orton.

The former NXT Champion has been feuding with WWE veterans on SmackDown and defeated Baron Corbin to progress in the tournament. Moreover, he is also engaged in a social media war with The Pride’s leader, Bobby Lashley.

Randy Orton currently has good momentum behind him as he advanced in the tournament by beating AJ Styles. Interestingly, while Carmelo Hayes’ tweet brings out his haughty side, he also shared a message with his fans that he is happy to go against someone like The Viper in the tournament.

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Carmelo Hayes shows a rare side of himself before facing Randy Orton on SmackDown

Before his recent display of confidence, Carmelo Hayes made a tweet on X showcasing respect for his SmackDown opponent, Randy Orton.

“Swimming with the sharks, never felt more at home. #KOTR #Smackdown #Quarterfinals”

However, the first draft pick of Friday Night SmackDown has left his small touch of humility and gratitude behind today. This was evident in a backstage segment where LA Knight was being interviewed. Carmelo Hayes barged in and said that Knight had a chance to welcome him.

In fact, he even repeated that ‘HIM’ would soon become the most dangerous three letters in sports entertainment. It will be interesting to see the outcome of the match between Hayes and Orton, and if the freshly promoted star gets to face LA Knight.