WWE announced during the January 24 edition of SmackDown that Damian Priest has joined the blue brand. On his debut night, Priest defeated Carmelo Hayes and later encountered Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes backstage.
The brand changes also included The Miz moving to SmackDown, where he faces ongoing issues with the Wyatt Sicks. Austin Theory and Grayson Waller transferred to Monday Night Raw as part of the roster adjustments.
Following the announcement, Rhea Ripley shared a heartfelt message on social media about her longtime friend and former Judgment Day teammate:
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! @ArcherOfInfamy 💜
Priest responded to Ripley’s message with his own tribute:
My homie. Best friend. Sister. Not where I’m at without your support. Appreciate you more than you know and forever proud. Love you and will always have your back! The greatest! #TT4Life
From being strangers, to you becoming my best friend.
— RheaRipley_WWE (@RheaRipley_WWE) January 25, 2025
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.… https://t.co/AgyNyxKMSq
Rhea Ripley returns to action at Saturday Night’s Main Event, defending the Women’s World Championship against Nia Jax. Gunther defends the World Heavyweight Championship against Jey Uso at the same event.