Damian Priest’s Contract Drama: How His WWE Deal Nearly Expired During Championship Reign

Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest faced significant contractual uncertainty during his championship run. Reports indicate that his WWE deal nearly expired while he was carrying the Money in the Bank briefcase and positioned for a major title opportunity.

Priest ultimately cashed in his Money in the Bank contract at WrestleMania 40, defeating Drew McIntyre to capture the World Heavyweight Championship. He held the title until SummerSlam 2024, where he lost to Gunther following interference from Finn Balor during their match.

Damian Priest’s WWE contract reportedly expired during championship tenure

During a recent Fightful Select Q&A session, Sean Ross Sapp addressed WWE’s contract negotiation practices, particularly during a period when several deals reportedly approached expiration. Sapp discussed the approach taken by former WWE executive Dan Ventrelle, noting multiple instances where contracts came dangerously close to expiring.

Sapp revealed that Priest was among those wrestlers whose contract status became problematic. According to reports, Priest’s deal allegedly expired while he was still holding the Money in the Bank briefcase. Despite this setback, Sapp believes Priest was unlikely to depart WWE, given his prominent push during that timeframe.

While Priest achieved world championship status as anticipated, the contractual complications reportedly raised concerns among backstage personnel. Sapp noted that WWE officials apparently believed Priest’s new deal should have been finalized earlier, suggesting internal disagreement over the timing of contract renewal negotiations.

The situation was eventually resolved between WWE management and Priest. Although the reported circumstances generated backstage anxiety, Priest continues to be part of WWE’s SmackDown roster.

In recent developments, Priest turned heel last week after attacking his former tag team partner R-Truth following their defeat to The War Raiders on WWE SmackDown.

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