Damian Priest secured a major victory over Aleister Black during the first edition of WWE Friday Night SmackDown, following a hard-fought Ambulance Match that featured both superstars using every trick and weapon available, leading to a decisive end. With this win now part of WWE history, fans are eager to know what direction lies ahead for Aleister Black after his loss to Priest in this memorable Damian Priest WWE SmackDown encounter.
A Recap of the Damian Priest versus Aleister Black Ambulance Match
The highly anticipated bout between Damian Priest and Aleister Black quickly escalated, as both wrestlers threw everything at each other, utilizing signature moves and even reaching for foreign objects to gain an advantage. The excitement peaked when Rhea Ripley and Zelina got involved, adding another layer of drama to the contest and heightening tensions at ringside. In the closing sequence, Priest delivered a dramatic Choke Slam, hurling Black through a massive table from atop the Ambulance. Priest then pulled Black into the vehicle and locked the doors, sealing his victory on the major WWE stage. This finish not only secured Priest’s win but also spelled an apparent conclusion to their fierce rivalry.
Possible New Journey: Aleister Black May Step Away from Competition
In the aftermath of this loss on SmackDown, Aleister Black—often referred to as “the Dutchman”—might opt for some time away from WWE programming. Having spent considerable time on the road since his return to the company last year, a break could provide both rest and a fresh start upon his return. Meanwhile, Damian Priest may join his wife Zelina Vega in taking a short hiatus, allowing both to be written off television before potentially returning for their anticipated involvement in the traditional Royal Rumble matches later in the year.
Switching Brands: A Potential Move to Monday Night RAW
With the defeat at the hands of Damian Priest, Aleister Black may consider leaving the “blue brand” of SmackDown altogether. A switch to WWE’s flagship show, Monday Night RAW, could see Black pursuing the mid-card championship and working his way up to the main event spotlight. Such a move might set him on a path toward another shot at the World Heavyweight title and spark new storylines against a different roster of opponents, possibly reigniting his momentum after a high-profile loss.
Opportunities for Retribution: Targeting Rhea Ripley
Rhea Ripley’s participation played a crucial part in Priest’s victory over Black in their Ambulance Match. Fuelled by the outcome, Black—with the support of his wife, Zelina Vega—could plot to interfere in Ripley’s quest to win the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship alongside the Kabuki Warriors. Costing Ripley her championship opportunity would serve as direct retaliation, opening a fresh rivalry and new narrative possibilities involving key superstars across WWE.
Aleister Black’s next steps have the potential to significantly shake up storylines on both SmackDown and RAW, especially if he decides to return refreshed, move to a new brand, or target revenge. With figures like Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley, and Zelina Vega involved, the outcome will keenly interest WWE fans as narratives evolve in the weeks to come.
DAMIAN PRIEST WINS THE AMBULANCE MATCH 🚑@ArcherOfInfamy pic.twitter.com/KKFiPwhU6S
— WWE (@WWE) January 3, 2026
