Overview
- Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov on the Dec. 26 SmackDown to claim the United States Championship after Dragunov’s October-to-December run.
- The finish saw Hayes counter a superplex into a mid-air cutter before landing First 48 and Nothing But Net for the pin.
- The match was a granted rematch after Hayes’ prior title shot was derailed by interference from DIY.
- Dragunov strapped the belt around Hayes’ waist after the bell in a clear show of respect.
- Johnny Gargano attacked Hayes backstage moments later and vowed to chase the title, while Tama Tonga’s interest in the scene remains a developing angle.