Damian Priest gave up lavish lifestyle for wrestling career when he chose to leave behind a world of luxury and security, betting everything on his dream of becoming a top WWE superstar. The journey saw him abandon the penthouse lifestyle, financial success, and physical comfort in order to chase success in the wrestling ring, a choice that now defines his inspiring story.
A Life of Comfort Before Wrestling Became the Focus
Before he became a WWE main event star, Damian Priest was already living what many would consider a dream life. Known to many as The Punisher and later El Campeon, Priest once managed a strip club in Atlantic City. The job provided him with both financial stability and a taste of luxury, with perks that included a boardwalk penthouse, a free car, and ample spending money for gear and comfort. Despite enjoying the security his job provided, Priest found his true passion lay elsewhere.
His wrestling aspirations started as a weekend pursuit, but everything changed when his employers forced him to choose between his steady job and the unpredictable world of professional wrestling. During an appearance on Cody Rhodes’s
“What Do You Wanna Talk About?”
podcast, Priest opened up about living a “solid situation” that many would envy but feeling a growing restlessness inside.
“Gave up the penthouse, the car, and the girls in stilettos… all for the ring. Stream the newest episode of ‘What Do You Wanna Talk About?’ NOW! @WWE@CodyRhodes Presented by @WheatleyVodka. pic.twitter.com/AzJzT4xip0”
— Damian Priest (@ArcherOfInfamy)
Priest recalled a pivotal moment from his past, sharing how one of the owners confronted him directly about his divided focus. The demand came abruptly, yet clearly, signaling a checkpoint in his life’s direction:
“He (one of the owners) goes, ‘you just gotta stop doing that wrestling thing you do sometimes on the weekends.’”
— Damian Priest, as recalled during the interview
That conversation forced Priest to examine his unhappiness. He described himself at that time as “about 400 pounds, complacent, lazy,” yet surrounded by people who assured him he would succeed because of his size and potential. Even with the trappings of success around him, he felt empty and unfulfilled, a reality that pushed him toward major change.
Priest talked about reaching a breaking point where he knew he needed to change course, no matter the cost:
“But that day specifically, because I got to the point a few nights that I realize that I was actually unhappy, miserable, and self-sabotaging. I knew I was not doing what I was supposed to be doing… And without hesitation, I said, ‘Yeah, you have my two weeks’ notice. I walked out of that office and I was like, ‘What did I just do?”
— Damian Priest, reflecting on his decision to quit
Leaving his stable job and luxury lifestyle behind, Priest threw himself into the pursuit of a wrestling career. He made a name for himself as Punishment Martinez on the independent scene, enduring hard years as he built a reputation that finally caught WWE’s attention in 2018.
Pursuing Championships and Wrestling Glory
Once under the WWE umbrella, Damian Priest quickly showed why his risk was worth taking. He thrived first in NXT, where his star began to rise, and he continued to excel as he stepped onto WWE’s biggest stages. His notable milestones include winning the Money in the Bank briefcase and capturing the title of World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania, achievements that have cemented his reputation within the industry.
His recent performances highlight his continued upward trajectory. After securing a victory over Drew McIntyre at Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24, Priest made it clear that he has his sights set even higher. The Punisher appeared on SmackDown and publicly called for a shot at the United States Championship, directly challenging current champion Jacob Fatu. The staredown between the two raised anticipation for fans and insiders alike.
While the storyline has yet to fully unfold, speculation is growing that WWE may be saving this potential clash for a marquee show such as SummerSlam. Despite delays, the seeds of what could become a major rivalry have been planted, ensuring that Priest remains a central figure in WWE’s narrative landscape.
The Lasting Impact of Damian Priest’s Sacrifice
Damian Priest’s choice to give up a life of luxury for wrestling tested his resolve and transformed him into an example of what passionate dedication can achieve. As he continues to pursue titles and recognition, his story stands as an inspiration to those who dream of something greater but fear the risk involved. With his new WWE contract and ongoing storylines, Priest shows no sign of slowing down, determined to make every hard-won opportunity count in and out of the ring.
Damian Priest’s journey not only underscores his personal triumph over comfort and complacency, it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices often required to achieve greatness—both for himself and countless others who dare to leave security behind in order to chase their ambitions.
