Damian Priest recently shared the story behind how he and Rhea Ripley earned the nickname ‘Terror Twins,’ highlighting the role of their fans in coining the moniker. Their bond grew strong as they rose to prominence, with both establishing themselves as major figures in <a href="https://cynicaltimes.org/category/wrestling-news/wwe/”>WWE. Priest captured the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania XL, while Ripley became the joint-longest reigning Women’s World Champion, marking their ascent to superstar status.
After separating from the stable Judgment Day, Priest and Ripley formed a powerful alliance, frequently teaming up to challenge opposing wrestlers like Dominik Mysterio and Liv Morgan. Their joint transition into top babyfaces in WWE amplified their reputation, and the ‘Terror Twins’ nickname became synonymous with their partnership and shared energy.
Priest Reflects on His Relationship with Ripley and the Fans’ Role
In a recent interview on the MLB Network Podcast ahead of SummerSlam, Priest opened up about his friendship with Ripley, emphasizing her dedication and positive attitude. He applauded her work ethic and the genuine kindness she shows to fans and peers alike:
Just that positivity and the work ethic. You see that, you respect it, and then it’s like, how can I not try to be the same? Her kindness, not just to us but to the fans, and she is one of the kindest people fans will ever meet. She is a sweetheart.
—Damian Priest
The nickname originated directly from their audience. Priest explained how fans noticed their similar expressions and mannerisms, as they naturally mirrored one another’s actions because of the time they spent together. WWE embraced the fan-given ‘Terror Twins’ label, fully integrating it into their characters and storylines:
The Terror Twins name and gimmick came from the fans. The fans started calling us that because they would take screenshots of us and we would keep doing the same thing, the same facial expressions, and acting similarly, by accident, because we were around each other so much. Fans started calling us that and WWE liked it and ran with it and went all in with the Terror Twins.
—Damian Priest
Though Priest’s move to SmackDown in WWE’s Transfer Window ended their regular team-ups in January, both remain central figures on their respective brands. Notably, Ripley is involved in a high-stakes triple threat match against Iyo Sky and Naomi for the Women’s World Championship at the upcoming SummerSlam event on August 3.
Ripley’s Sentiments on Parting with Her ‘Terror Twin Buddy’
Both Ripley and Priest began their journeys in WWE’s developmental brand NXT and were foundational members of The Judgment Day, which was initially led by Hall of Famer Edge. Following Edge’s departure and subsequent replacement by Finn Balor, the stable evolved, helping both wrestlers solidify their status as top-tier performers.
Their camaraderie was evident during key moments, particularly when Priest cashed in his Money in the Bank briefcase at WrestleMania XL to claim the world championship. A year after their split, Ripley shared a heartfelt message on X, expressing the depth of their friendship and her reluctance to let go:
From being strangers, to you becoming my best friend. Always being on the same brands from day one. Being inseparable travel and gym buddies. You have always been one my my biggest supporters. I don’t want to let you go… But I cannot wait to see the punishing you get up to. Te amo, my Terror Twin!
—Rhea Ripley
Now active on different WWE brands, Priest and Ripley continue to support each other while facing new challenges. Their narrative remains intertwined, especially considering last year’s SummerSlam 2024, when both were betrayed by Dominik Mysterio and Finn Balor, sparking the breakdown of The Judgment Day stable.
Significance of the ‘Terror Twins’ and What Lies Ahead
The ‘Terror Twins’ represent one of the most compelling partnerships in WWE today, showcasing a blend of friendship, resilience, and exceptional athletic talent. Their fans’ influence on their personas underscores the unique connection between performers and audience, transforming casual observation into lasting identity.
As Damian Priest and Rhea Ripley continue to climb the ranks on SmackDown and RAW, respectively, their paths reflect both individual ambition and a shared legacy. With SummerSlam featuring Ripley’s championship challenge, and Priest maintaining his position near the top, the future promises ongoing excitement and evolution for the ‘Terror Twins’ story.
