Damian Priest may not have walked out of Backlash with the United States Championship, but he walked away with something just as important: a renewed sense of purpose
His desire to perform in front of his hometown at SummerSlam represents more than a wrestling milestone—it’s a testament to hard work, cultural pride, and unrelenting ambition.
As WWE heads into the summer season, all eyes will be on what’s next for The Archer of Infamy. With passion fueling his journey and the crowd behind him, Damian Priest might just deliver one of the most memorable performances of his career at MetLife Stadium.
WWE Backlash delivered in terms of match quality, surprises, and storytelling, but not without consequences.
Damian Priest’s reported dental injury is an unfortunate setback for a star who seemed poised to reclaim momentum in 2025. However, if his track record is anything to go by, he’ll be back—and hungry for payback.
Meanwhile, Jacob Fatu continues to rise as a legitimate force in WWE, and with new characters like Jeff Cobb entering the fray, the U.S. title picture is heating up.
Fans will now watch closely to see how the rivalries evolve, what Priest’s status is, and where Solo Sikoa’s growing influence leads the WWE landscape next.
Also Read: Damian Priest (WWE): Who Is He? Bio, Career, Achievements, Net Worth 2024, Toy and More
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Damian Priest Reportedly Injured at WWE Backlash
What Happened and What’s Next?
WWE Backlash 2025, held at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri, was a night filled with excitement, shock returns, and hard-hitting action.1
Among the most talked-about moments was the United States Championship Fatal 4-Way match, featuring Jacob Fatu, Damian Priest, Drew McIntyre, and LA Knight.
While Jacob Fatu retained the title in impressive fashion, it was Damian Priest’s reported injury that made headlines following the show.
💔 rest easy legend #Sabu ☝️
— Damian Priest (@ArcherOfInfamy) May 11, 2025
A Physical Battle for the United States Championship
The United States Championship match at Backlash was as chaotic and physical as expected. All four men brought their best to the ring, knowing what was at stake.
The champion, Jacob Fatu, who had won the title at WrestleMania 41 by defeating LA Knight, entered Backlash determined to prove his reign was no fluke.
Damian Priest, meanwhile, was still riding momentum from his time in the main event scene, having previously held the World Heavyweight Championship.
The Archer of Infamy seemed laser-focused on reclaiming gold in WWE, making him a dangerous threat heading into the match.
Damian Priest’s Dental Injury Explained
According to Fightful Select, Damian Priest reportedly suffered a dental injury during the chaotic Fatal 4-Way encounter.2
While the nature of the move or incident that caused the injury hasn’t been disclosed, it was noted that Priest was “not thrilled” about it in the backstage area following the match.
This type of injury, while not career-threatening, can be particularly frustrating for a performer who relies on constant travel, television appearances, and speaking roles.
A damaged or broken tooth may require urgent dental surgery, follow-up procedures, and possibly some time away from in-ring action to recover.
The Role of Jeff Cobb and Solo Sikoa in the Finish
The climax of the match came with a shocking debut—Jeff Cobb, the powerhouse from New Japan Pro-Wrestling, made a surprise appearance at WWE Backlash.
Cobb interfered in the match on behalf of Solo Sikoa, continuing the recent trend of Sikoa amassing a faction of dangerous enforcers.
Cobb’s involvement led directly to the finish. After taking out McIntyre and Priest outside the ring, he cleared the path for Jacob Fatu to hit a devastating Moonsault on LA Knight, securing the win and retaining his title.
Fatu, notably, looked confused by Cobb’s assistance, suggesting that this was not a coordinated effort between the two Samoan superstars.
The Rise of Jacob Fatu: A Dominant Champion
Jacob Fatu has quickly established himself as one of the most dominant and unpredictable champions in WWE.
Since debuting on the main roster, Fatu has combined brute strength, high-flying ability, and Samoan intensity to make a mark in record time. His successful title defense at Backlash proves that he’s not just a transitional champion—he’s here to stay.
What makes Fatu even more compelling is the tension surrounding his alliances. While Solo Sikoa is clearly building an army around him, Fatu’s reactions suggest he may not be entirely on board.
That narrative opens the door for intriguing storytelling in the weeks to come, especially with names like Jeff Cobb now involved.
Priest’s Resilience: Fighting Through the Pain
Despite the reported injury, Damian Priest powered through the rest of the match, delivering key spots and remaining a major threat until the final moments.
That toughness and resilience have long defined his WWE career, from his days in NXT to becoming Mr. Money in the Bank and eventually a world champion.
Priest didn’t comment publicly after Backlash, but backstage reports suggest he was visibly unhappy with the injury, which may have impacted his performance or comfort during the remainder of the bout.
WWE will likely monitor his condition closely to determine the next steps in his recovery.
What’s Next for Damian Priest?
With Priest’s injury under review, the biggest question now is: what’s next? If the dental issue is serious, he could miss a few episodes of TV or require dental surgery, potentially delaying any plans for a rematch or continued feud with Fatu or Solo Sikoa’s faction.3
Alternatively, if he’s cleared to compete, WWE may opt to use the injury as a storyline angle, perhaps setting up a grudge match against Jeff Cobb or Solo Sikoa down the line.
Given Priest’s history of fighting through adversity, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him back in the ring sooner than expected.
A One-Time Appearance or More?
Jeff Cobb’s debut was one of the most buzzworthy moments of the night. Known for his strength, suplex-based offense, and Olympic wrestling background, Cobb fits the mold of a classic WWE powerhouse.
The fact that he appeared on behalf of Solo Sikoa suggests a long-term role in WWE’s version of the Bloodline 2.0 storyline.
If Cobb sticks around, expect fireworks. A match between Cobb and Damian Priest—two physically imposing, agile big men—could be an instant classic and might be just what WWE needs to elevate its midcard rivalries in the post-Mania season.
The Bigger Picture: WWE’s Evolving Power Structure
Backlash made it clear that WWE is restructuring its main-event and midcard scenes, especially with Solo Sikoa asserting dominance in Roman Reigns’ absence.
By surrounding himself with forces like Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, and now Jeff Cobb, Solo is building what could become the most powerful faction in WWE—unless Fatu decides to go his own way.
The inclusion of veterans like Damian Priest and workhorses like McIntyre and Knight in this mix ensures that the storytelling remains compelling, with a mix of experience and fresh energy. It’s an exciting time for WWE fans, even amid the concern of potential injuries.
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The WWE Universe had plenty to say after Backlash. While fans were impressed with Jacob Fatu’s continued dominance and Jeff Cobb’s debut, many expressed concern for Damian Priest.
The phrase “Get Well Priest” trended briefly on X (formerly Twitter), with fans sending well wishes and hoping the injury wasn’t too serious.
Some fans also speculated whether the injury might affect Priest’s rumored storyline plans for the summer, including a possible Money in the Bank appearance or another run at a major title.
Also Read: Damian Priest’s Potential Cash-in at WrestleMania XL: Risky Move or Stroke of Genius?
Damian Priest Reveals Personal Motivation Behind WWE Backlash Title Pursuit
WWE Superstar Damian Priest has always brought intensity and purpose to the squared circle, but his recent revelation adds a deeply personal layer to his championship aspirations.
In a candid interview with News 12, the SmackDown standout shared the emotional reason behind his desire to win the United States Championship at WWE Backlash.
More than just career advancement or gold for his résumé, Priest had his heart set on delivering a hometown title defense at SummerSlam.
Let’s break down Priest’s ambitions, his past struggles, and what the future may hold for “The Archer of Infamy.”
Damian Priest’s motivation to win the United States Championship wasn’t just for prestige—it was about representing his roots.
The 2025 edition of WWE SummerSlam is set to take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, spanning two nights. For Priest, who grew up in the area, defending a championship in front of friends, family, and hometown fans would be a dream come true.
The Significance of the United States Championship
- The United States Championship has long held a prominent place in WWE’s hierarchy.
- It’s often viewed as a stepping stone to the main event scene, but for many Superstars, it represents something far more personal.
- For Damian Priest, capturing the title for a second time wasn’t just about reclaiming lost glory—it was about telling a full-circle story.
- His first U.S. title reign came in 2021, and it was marked by hard-hitting feuds, including a notable rivalry with Sheamus.
- While that reign helped solidify him as a credible singles competitor, a second reign, particularly in 2025, would’ve symbolized redemption, closure, and triumph over adversity.
- Unfortunately, Priest’s dream did not materialize at Backlash. Despite his efforts and fan support, he came up short in his attempt to reclaim the United States Championship.
- Whether it was interference, fatigue, or simply being outperformed, the loss left fans wondering what’s next for Priest.
- Yet, WWE has always thrived on resilience and storytelling. A loss at Backlash doesn’t mean the end of the road for Priest—it may just be the beginning of another, more compelling chapter in his career.
Damian Priest: From Judgment Day to Independence
For much of the past two years, Damian Priest was a key figure in the faction known as The Judgment Day.
Alongside stars like Finn Balor, Rhea Ripley, and Dominik Mysterio, Priest helped lead the group through some of WWE’s most captivating feuds. But that brotherhood didn’t last.
At SummerSlam last year, Priest suffered a heartbreaking betrayal at the hands of Finn Balor, who cost him the World Heavyweight Championship.
That betrayal served as a turning point in Priest’s career—marking his transition from faction member to a lone wolf focused on personal redemption.
Now, without the backing of The Judgment Day, Priest finds himself walking a solitary path, one paved with vengeance, growth, and introspection.
Damian Priest: Wrestling Figure
Damian Priest’s wrestling figure Ultimate Edition Series 25 is out now, to shop visit Ringsid.ec.
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SummerSlam: The Stage of Redemption
Even though he failed to win at Backlash, there’s still a chance that Priest could be featured prominently at SummerSlam.
WWE has a history of rewarding Superstars who show persistence and emotional resonance with the audience.
Whether it’s through a Money in the Bank contract or another high-stakes match, there’s a strong possibility that the company gives Priest a meaningful storyline heading into the summer’s biggest event.
MetLife Stadium, known for hosting epic WWE moments, could be the perfect place for Damian Priest to finally have his redemption. Whether he wins a title or gets a rematch, the crowd would undoubtedly be behind their hometown hero.
The Emotional Power of Wrestling in One’s Backyard
Wrestling fans often marvel at the physical feats and storytelling inside the ring, but one of the most underrated aspects of the sport is the emotional pull of hometown performances.
When a Superstar gets to perform in front of their own community, it creates a synergy that’s hard to replicate.
For Damian Priest, who has Puerto Rican roots but was raised in the New York/New Jersey area, SummerSlam at MetLife isn’t just another show—it’s a celebration of his journey.
From training in the Northeast to climbing WWE’s ranks, this moment represents a dream realized.
WWE Superstars like Edge in Toronto, CM Punk in Chicago, and John Cena in Boston have all had unforgettable hometown moments. Priest hopes to add his name to that iconic list.
Also Read: Dominik Mysterio’s Shocking Choice: He Named Penta for Judgment Day on WWE RAW
