Below are a couple of top WWE news stories of the day, involving AJ Styles and Damian Priest.
• Despite his recent loss to WWE Champion Cody Rhodes at Clash At The Castle, WWE continues to have significant plans for AJ Styles. He is set to compete at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s Destination event next month, and there are strong indications that he won’t be going alone.
Pro Wrestling NOAH and WWE previously announced that AJ Styles will face Naomichi Marufuji at NOAH Destination 2024, scheduled for July 13 at Budokan Hall. This highly anticipated match has fans excited, as it promises to be a thrilling encounter between two wrestling greats.
According to PWInsider, Styles is expected to be accompanied by his long-time allies Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson at the event. This addition is likely to bolster Styles’ presence and impact at NOAH Destination, creating even more buzz around the match.
The involvement of Gallows and Anderson, known collectively with Styles as The O.C., suggests that WWE is keen on making a strong impression at the NOAH event. Their presence not only adds star power but also reinforces the ongoing collaboration between WWE and Pro Wrestling NOAH, which has been gaining traction and interest from fans worldwide.
• Damian Priest solidified his status as the World Heavyweight Champion by defeating Drew McIntyre and retaining his title at Clash At The Castle, thanks to some timely assistance from CM Punk. WWE’s internal reaction to Priest’s standout performance has now come to light.
During the high-stakes main event between Priest and McIntyre in Scotland, a dramatic moment unfolded. As Priest attempted a high-flying move to the outside, his ankle got caught in the ropes, causing him to nearly fall on his head. This alarming incident drew gasps from the audience, but the match continued. Despite the injury scare, Priest managed to secure a victory after Punk low-blowed McIntyre.
Sean Ross Sapp, speaking on Fightful Select’s Backstage report, revealed that Priest’s performance was highly praised within WWE.
“Damian Priest got a lot of praise for his Clash at The Castle performance,” Sapp reported.
In an update, PWInsider is reporting that Priest is believed to be “100% OK” after his injury scare.
Priest will defend the World Heavyweight Title against Seth Rollins at Money In The Bank 2024.
