WWE finds itself grappling with a complex situation surrounding Damian Priest. It’s an unusual dilemma considering Priest’s exceptional skills in the ring and his undeniable charisma.
As a vital part of Judgment Day, one of WWE’s premier stables, and as one-half of the Tag Team Champions, Priest has consistently commanded attention, solidifying his status as a standout performer on Raw.
Despite his undeniable talents, a series of unfortunate events have unfolded, turning his Money In The Bank briefcase into more of a hindrance than a benefit. With just a few months remaining, WWE faces the daunting task of navigating a resolution that not only aligns with long-term storytelling but also safeguards Priest’s character.
The genesis of this predicament can be traced back to last summer when Judgment Day was riding a wave of momentum, frequently headlining episodes of Raw. Damian Priest emerged as a breakout star within the faction, poised for significant success.
His victory at Money In The Bank promised him a title shot at any moment, sparking anticipation among fans, who speculated he might be the one to dethrone Seth Rollins.
However, the landscape swiftly shifted with the entry of Finn Bálor into the picture, and the briefcase became a tool used to sow discord within Judgment Day. Fast forward to the present, with the return of CM Punk and other developments, Priest finds himself still holding onto his briefcase as WrestleMania looms large on the horizon.
In recent months, the prevailing sentiment among fans has shifted from certainty about Priest’s successful cash-in to skepticism. Failed cash-ins are not uncommon in the world of professional wrestling, serving to inject uncertainty into Money In The Bank victories.
However, they can also prove detrimental, stalling momentum and tarnishing a wrestler’s standing, as evidenced by past examples like Damian Sandow and Baron Corbin.
Personally, I am an advocate for Priest’s successful cash-in, firmly believing that he possesses untapped potential deserving of a championship reign.
However, the timing and execution of such a momentous event are crucial. If I were to offer counsel to WWE’s decision-makers, I would propose a scenario for WrestleMania 40 that could potentially address this dilemma.
With Seth Rollins in the midst of recovery and Drew McIntyre seeking redemption for his title win without fanfare, WrestleMania presents a golden opportunity for McIntyre to reclaim his moment in the spotlight. Picture this: McIntyre triumphs over Rollins in a hard-fought battle, finally attaining the vindication he so fervently desires.
Just as he prepares to bask in the glory of his triumph, Damian Priest seizes the moment, cashing in his Money In The Bank briefcase and dethroning McIntyre to become the new champion.
This turn of events not only propels McIntyre into a compelling pursuit of the championship once more but also solidifies Priest’s status as a formidable force within the WWE landscape.
McIntyre’s recent portrayal as a heel could be further developed into a tweener role, allowing him to engage in dynamic rivalries where fan allegiance shifts based on the opponent.
This evolution sets the stage for future matchups, such as a clash with CM Punk or a showdown with Priest at Backlash, offering diverse narrative possibilities and keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.
While Priest may not yet be ready to topple the likes of Roman Reigns, a brief championship reign would undoubtedly elevate his status and open doors for future storylines.
A cash-in on McIntyre post-WrestleMania not only intensifies the narrative but also safeguards Priest’s character, ensuring he remains a compelling and relevant presence within the WWE universe. As Judgment Day might say, I’d stand firmly behind that decision, believing it to be a pivotal moment in Damian Priest’s ascent to the upper echelons of sports entertainment.
