Damian Priest supports R-Truth after WWE release, expressing solidarity as the fan-favorite‘s longstanding tenure comes to an abrupt end. The surprising development has stirred intense reactions among fans and fellow WWE superstars.
Damian Priest and Fellow Wrestlers Respond to R-Truth’s Departure
R-Truth, whose most recent run with WWE spanned 17 years, announced his release to the public, generating widespread surprise in the wrestling community. The Judgment Day played a significant role in R-Truth’s later years, and Priest, one of its key members, has been vocal in his support for the veteran performer. Priest signaled his backing by posting a photo from the RAW after WrestleMania on social media, ensuring only R-Truth remained in the frame and directly tagging Rhea Ripley and R-Truth in the post.
Ripley, known for her Women’s World Championship achievements, had already responded to R-Truth’s announcement, while Priest chose a quieter but unmistakable gesture online. Their actions highlight a sense of unity among the newer champions and the departing star, reflecting the uncertain and mixed emotions circulating backstage.
The WrestleMania XL Aftermath and RAW Tribute
WrestleMania XL saw significant title changes, as Rhea Ripley protected her Women’s World Championship, and Damian Priest, alongside Finn Balor, lost the Undisputed Tag Team titles in a challenging Six-Pack Ladder Match. A-Town Down Under walked away as new WWE Tag Team Champions, and Awesome Truth captured the World Tag Team titles. The following night, Priest seized the Money in the Bank opportunity, becoming the World Heavyweight Champion.
The RAW after WrestleMania featured new champions, including Priest, in a segment that now holds added meaning in light of R-Truth’s departure. The cropping of fellow wrestlers from Priest’s tribute photo underscored a focused salute to R-Truth’s presence during this pivotal period.
Final Matches and R-Truth’s WWE Legacy
R-Truth’s WWE career included nearly 1,500 matches out of approximately 2,000 total career bouts since 1999, standout statistics that underscore his impact. His last singles appearance against Priest occurred on RAW in March 2024, and his final tag involvement came in a SmackDown dark match in August of the same year, where The Judgment Day faced off against Awesome Truth, Jey Uso, and Rey Mysterio.
The most recent episode of SmackDown illustrated the mixed tone of Truth’s exit; he was derided backstage by Solo Sikoa’s group before being challenged by JC Mateo. That match lasted just over two minutes, marking JC Mateo’s first victory and signifying Truth’s final WWE in-ring contest. Days before, Truth suffered a non-title loss to John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event, drawing their televised singles series even at two wins each.
A Veteran’s Departure Reverberates Through WWE
As news of R-Truth’s release continues to circulate, the support from Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley stands out, reflecting the complex sentiments within WWE. The transition not only marks the end of a notable chapter for R-Truth but also leaves fans and colleagues reflecting on his contributions and uncertain about how the company will move forward without one of its most enduring entertainers.
