In a groundbreaking moment for both himself and the wrestling world, Damian Priest has etched his name into the annals of WWE history as the first World Champion of Puerto Rican descent in over 50 years. This milestone achievement not only highlights Priest's remarkable talent and dedication but also marks a significant moment of representation and recognition for Puerto Rican wrestlers on the global stage.
Priest's ascent to the top of WWE is a testament to his years of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering determination.
During the Wrestlemania XL Night 2 Press Conference, Damian Priest offered a heartfelt reflection on his historic World Heavyweight Championship win, encapsulating the journey that led him to this momentous achievement.
"It’s one of those things that’s really hard to put into words. It’s like, what’s happening? Starting from two years ago when we formed the Judgment Day, there was kind of an idea of using talent that could possibly be main-eventers or have been main-eventers, but they’re just floating. Then it took off to a different direction, and I’ll be honest, there was a moment that I wasn’t sure it was gonna work. I thought I was done. I wasn’t even sure I was gonna still be here with the company, to be honest."
Priest's candid reflection sheds light on the uncertainties and challenges he faced along the way, underscoring the resilience and determination that propelled him forward. He acknowledges the pivotal role played by his fellow wrestlers, including Finn Balor, Rhea Ripley, Dominik Mysterio, and JD, in creating a dynamic and supportive environment that fostered growth and success.
"Then I don’t know. It was just the addition obviously with Finn Balor, Rhea, then Dom, and now JD, I feel like all of our differences made something special. All of us bring out the best out of each other."
Priest also highlights the significance of representing Puerto Rico in the global arena of professional wrestling, emphasizing the importance of showcasing diversity and inclusion.
"Then flowing into Puerto Rico, and that event, which I still to this day, it was one of the most important matches of my career. The win or loss was inconsequential. It was about representation and what we can do to show off, show off that the company in another country or in another atmosphere could be successful."
His journey culminated in a triumphant moment at WrestleMania, where he captured the World Heavyweight Championship in front of a hometown crowd, surrounded by loved ones and supporters.
"Now, you see with the business we’re doing in all these other countries, I mean, Australia was incredible. Then we flow into Money in the Bank, which was in London, and that was cool. But even still, you never know what’s gonna happen. It took me a minute to cash in, but you’re talking about one of the greatest, if not the greatest, WrestleMania of all time, in a city where it was 20 minutes away from where I started my career, I did it in front of my father, my brothers, friends, one of the coolest moments of my life. Shoutout to the Philadelphia crowd because they made that really special," Priest said.
Priest's journey from uncertainty to triumph serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of one's dreams. As he basks in the glory of his championship victory, Priest continues to inspire aspiring wrestlers and fans alike with his remarkable story of determination and triumph.
