- Drew McIntyre is taking an indefinite break from WWE due to injuries.
- Damian Priest's dominant win could set up a future match upon McIntyre's return.
- There is speculation of a potential heel turn for Priest following his controversial victory.
At WWE's Saturday Night's Main Event on May 24 in Tampa, fans witnessed a hard-hitting cage match between Damian Priest and Drew McIntyre, which Priest won dominantly, leaving Drew McIntyre injured. It's not clear if this was the final chapter in their heated rivalry, but it does look like the last time fans will see McIntyre for some time.
Drew McIntyre Taking Time Away To Deal With Injuries
Following the brutal match, reports from PWInsider confirmed that McIntyre will be taking an extended leave and some time off from WWE. Sources backstage noted that Saturday night was booked in the way it was because it was set to mark the end of McIntyre’s current WWE obligations, and he is now off TV indefinitely. McIntyre missed a Claymore and kicked a chair, hurting his leg. Priest then hit McIntyre in the throat with a chair. He hit a South of Heaven and a conchairto to win.
There has been speculation about McIntyre exploring a potential Hollywood opportunity, but this break is reportedly injury-related and related to personal reasons. While he does have prospects of future acting roles, McIntyre himself has recently spoken about nagging injuries, including neck issues that limited his mobility. Despite working hurt for several months, he powered through high-profile matches during WrestleMania season. WWE has been looking for an opportunity to give him the break he needs.
Priest Took Out McIntyre In the Cage Match
Damian Priest’s dominant win solidifies another push for him from WWE and sets up a potential match for when McIntyre eventually returns. Several members of the WWE Universe didn't love how the match was booked, but many might not have been aware that the plan was to write McIntyre off of WWE programming. This decision does that, but Priest gets a much-needed boost, potentially setting up a heel turn.
Priest won the match by simply walking out of the cage in what was not a babyface-like decision. Jesse Ventura was livid over how Priest won that match, suggesting a turn. Then again, Ventura's reaction might not have been planned.
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