Baron Corbin left WWE last week after the company decided not to extend his contract. He had been with WWE for more than a decade.

Former NXT Champion Carmelo Hayes feels a sense of “survivor’s guilt” following Corbin’s recent departure from WWE. The two became acquainted after collaborating in NXT last year.

Corbin returned to NXT last May, entering a storyline with Hayes and challenging him for the NXT Championship. They also faced off on SmackDown during the 2024 King of the Ring tournament.

During a recent interview with Metro, Hayes stated that Corbin’s release affected him significantly and praised him for his guidance in wrestling and life.

Hayes said, “It’s kinda like a survivor’s guilt, you know what I mean? After a day or two, you’re like, “Man!” You just hate to see that for them. I’m forever indebted to Baron Corbin. Super talented, and I hate to see him go. That was one of those ones that really kinda hurt.”

Corbin is free to join any promotion he desires since he has no non-compete clause.