Last-Minute Match Confirmed for February 27 WWE SmackDown

TLDR

WWE confirmed that Carmelo Hayes will defend his WWE United States Championship in an open challenge on the February 27, 2026 episode of Friday Night SmackDown from Louisville, Kentucky. The announcement was made just hours before the Elimination Chamber go-home show, with no opponent announced in advance. Hayes previously issued an open challenge on January 30, successfully retaining his title against Rey Fenix.