Damian Priest Bio
Early Life and Background
Luis Martínez, born on September 26, 1982, in New York City, is an American professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the SmackDown brand under the ring name Damian Priest. Raised in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, he developed an interest in wrestling after watching the World Wrestling Council (WWC) on television. He learned Gōjū-ryū karate from his father and won two national championships in full-contact martial arts before deciding to pursue a career in professional wrestling.
Martínez returned to New York at the age of ten, where he faced cultural adaptation challenges. He experienced homelessness and worked as a bouncer to support himself while pursuing his wrestling dreams. His early life experiences shaped his character and resilience in the wrestling industry.
Path to WWE
Martínez made his wrestling debut in 2005, performing in various independent promotions primarily on the East Coast. He gained significant recognition after joining Ring of Honor (ROH) in 2015, where he competed under the ring name Punishment Martinez. His performances in ROH, including winning the ROH World Television Championship, helped him establish a reputation in the wrestling community.
In 2018, Martínez signed with WWE and debuted on the NXT brand. He quickly made an impact, winning the NXT North American Championship and showcasing his skills in high-profile matches. His transition to WWE marked a significant milestone in his career, leading to his rise as a prominent figure in the wrestling world.
Damian Priest Career
Early Career (2005–2015)
Martínez began his wrestling career in independent promotions, where he honed his craft and developed his persona. His time in the independent circuit laid the foundation for his future success, allowing him to gain experience and build a fan base. He made a notable debut in Ring of Honor in 2015, where he began to make a name for himself.
Ring of Honor Breakthrough (2015–2018)
In 2015, Martínez made his first appearance at an ROH show, competing in dark matches. He returned to ROH in early 2016, adopting the ring name Punishment Martinez and quickly establishing himself as a formidable competitor. He won the ROH World Television Championship in 2018, solidifying his status in the promotion before opting to leave ROH for WWE.
WWE Era (2018–Present)
Martínez signed with WWE in October 2018 and made his NXT debut shortly thereafter. He rebranded himself as Damian Priest, a character that showcased his charisma and in-ring prowess. He won the NXT North American Championship in August 2020, marking his first major title in WWE. His main roster debut came in early 2021, where he quickly gained popularity, particularly after his involvement in high-profile storylines.
Priest became a co-founding member of The Judgment Day in 2022, a faction that significantly elevated his status within WWE. He won the Men’s Money in the Bank contract in 2023 and became a four-time tag team champion, showcasing his versatility and ability to thrive in various roles.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Martínez is known for his powerful presence and striking abilities, influenced by his martial arts background. His wrestling style combines high-flying moves with power maneuvers, making him a versatile competitor in the ring. He has developed a charismatic persona that resonates with fans, often incorporating elements of his Puerto Rican heritage into his character.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Martínez has achieved significant milestones, including winning the WWE United States Championship and the NXT North American Championship. His involvement in The Judgment Day and his successful cash-in at WrestleMania XL to win the World Heavyweight Championship further solidified his legacy in professional wrestling.
Damian Priest Career Wins
Martínez has accumulated numerous wins across various promotions, with notable victories in WWE and Ring of Honor. His championship reigns and high-profile matches have established him as a formidable competitor in the wrestling industry.
Current WWE Series Highlights
As of 2025, Priest has secured multiple championships, including the WWE United States Championship and the World Heavyweight Championship. His first win in WWE came when he captured the NXT North American Championship, and he has since added significant titles to his resume, showcasing his prowess in the ring.
Previous ROH Series Achievements
During his time in Ring of Honor, Martínez won the ROH World Television Championship, marking a significant achievement in his early career. His performances in ROH laid the groundwork for his future success in WWE.
Damian Priest Family
Family Background and WWE Lineage
Martínez comes from a Nuyorican family, which has influenced his cultural identity and wrestling persona. He has often paid homage to his Puerto Rican heritage in his promos and character development.
Personal Life
Martínez is currently in a relationship with NXT superstar Lola Vice. He is known for his passion for music, particularly rock and heavy metal, and has expressed admiration for various bands. His interests extend beyond wrestling, showcasing a multifaceted personality.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Priest, marked by significant storylines and championship pursuits. His involvement in high-stakes matches and feuds has kept him in the spotlight, with key victories contributing to his momentum. As he continues to navigate the competitive landscape of WWE, Priest’s character evolution and in-ring performances are anticipated to captivate fans and solidify his legacy in professional wrestling.
