The Archery Of Comfort: 5 Major Perks Damian Priest Negotiated In His New WWE Contract

The world of professional wrestling contracts is notoriously secretive, but in the modern era of athlete empowerment, certain details occasionally surface, offering a rare glimpse into the unique demands of a top-tier WWE Superstar. As of December 17, 2025, one of the most talked-about contract negotiations of the year involved the former World Heavyweight Champion, Damian Priest, who secured a fresh deal that included a highly personal and essential perk.

The Archery of Infamy, known to his family as Luis Martínez, leveraged his status as a key member of The Judgment Day and a former Money in the Bank briefcase holder to secure not just a substantial pay raise, but a specific clause designed to enhance his grueling travel schedule. This single, personalized perk highlights the changing landscape of WWE contracts, where comfort and well-being are becoming negotiable terms for main event talent.

Damian Priest: The Biography and Career Profile

Before diving into the specifics of his new contract, it is crucial to understand the journey of the man who became "Señor Money in the Bank" and a World Champion. His rise from the independent circuit to the main event scene is a testament to perseverance and star power.

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• Ring Name: Damian Priest
• Real Name: Luis Martínez
• Born: September 26, 1982
• Age: 43 (as of late 2025)
• Billed From: New York City, New York
• Height: 6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
• Professional Debut: 2004
• WWE Debut: 2018 (NXT)
• Major Championships & Accomplishments:
  • WWE World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • WWE United States Championship (1 time)
  • WWE Raw Tag Team Championship (2 times - with Finn Bálor)
  • Men's Money in the Bank Winner (2023)
  • NXT North American Championship (1 time)
• Factions: The Judgment Day (Co-founder and prominent member alongside Finn Bálor, Dominik Mysterio, and Rhea Ripley).

Priest’s imposing 6-foot-5 frame, combined with his unique blend of power and agility, made him an undeniable force. This physical stature, however, became the unlikely focus of his most talked-about contract negotiation.

The Essential Perk: First-Class Travel & Comfort Clause

The single most unique and widely reported perk Damian Priest secured in his new WWE contract, which was signed and reported in early 2024, revolves entirely around his travel accommodations. This clause is a direct response to the physical toll the WWE schedule takes on a wrestler of his size.

The Problem: The Toll of the Road on a 6'5" Frame

For a Superstar like Priest, who is significantly taller than average, the constant travel required for WWE’s demanding schedule—which includes domestic and international flights, often multiple times a week—is a major physical challenge. Long flights, particularly in standard economy seating, can be brutal for taller individuals, leading to cramped legs, back pain, and overall discomfort that hinders recovery.

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During an appearance on a podcast with fellow Superstar Cody Rhodes, Priest candidly revealed the specific clause he negotiated. He explained that the discomfort was becoming a major obstacle to his in-ring performance and recovery.

The Solution: Guaranteed Upgraded Flights

The contract perk is a guarantee of upgraded flights, specifically securing him First-Class Travel for his air journeys.

This is not a standard benefit for all WWE Superstars. While main event talent often receives better travel arrangements, securing it as a formal, non-negotiable clause in the contract is a significant win. The perk ensures that Priest has the necessary legroom and comfort to arrive at his destination rested and ready to perform, effectively turning a physical liability into a managed condition. This demonstrates the company's commitment to retaining top talent and accommodating their personal needs.

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Beyond the Comfort: Other Negotiated Contract Elements

While the first-class travel perk garnered the most attention due to its unique, personal nature, any contract signed by a main event player like Damian Priest in 2024 would encompass several other critical, though less public, elements. These factors collectively solidify his position as a top-tier Superstar in the company.

1. Substantial Financial Increase

As one of the most prominent performers on the Raw brand, especially following his historic Money in the Bank briefcase win and subsequent World Heavyweight Championship reign, Priest’s new deal includes a massive salary increase. This financial security is a standard feature for talent who have proven their drawing power and marketability, moving them into the elite bracket of WWE earners alongside names like Drew McIntyre and Seth Rollins.

The financial terms reflect his status as a former World Champion and his critical role in The Judgment Day, one of the most dominant factions in recent WWE history. This new compensation package ensures he remains a dedicated and long-term asset to the company.

2. Merchandising and Licensing Royalties

A significant portion of a top wrestler’s income comes from royalties on merchandise, video game appearances, and other licensed products. Priest’s popularity, particularly his "Señor Money in the Bank" persona and his association with the highly profitable Judgment Day stable (which includes major stars like Rhea Ripley and Finn Bálor), guarantees a favorable royalty split.

His contract likely includes improved terms for his likeness on T-shirts, action figures, and other collectibles, reflecting his high visibility and sales volume globally. Merchandising is a key indicator of a Superstar’s connection with the WWE Universe.

3. Creative Control and Main Event Positioning

While full creative control is rare in WWE, top stars often negotiate clauses that guarantee a certain level of main event or high-profile positioning. For Damian Priest, this means his contract likely assures him of being featured prominently in major storylines, pay-per-view events, and championship opportunities.

His successful cash-in on Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 40 to become the World Heavyweight Champion cemented his main event status. The new contract ensures that his future is tied to the top of the card, protecting his character's prestige and relevance.

4. Wellness and Injury Protection

All WWE contracts include clauses related to wellness and injury, but a veteran like Priest would negotiate stronger terms. This involves comprehensive medical coverage, guaranteed pay during injury recovery periods, and perhaps specific provisions for physical therapy or time off to manage chronic issues. The first-class travel perk itself is an extension of this focus on long-term wellness and physical maintenance.

This emphasis on health allows Superstars to extend their careers and ensures that the company invests in their longevity, a crucial factor for a performer in their 40s.

The Impact of the Contract on The Judgment Day's Future

Damian Priest’s contract extension has major implications for the entire Judgment Day stable. His commitment to the company signals stability for the group, which has been a pivotal force in WWE programming since its inception with Edge in 2022.

The long-term security of a key member like Priest allows WWE’s creative team to plan major, multi-year storylines around the group's dynamic, including their internal conflicts and their feuds with rivals. His World Heavyweight Championship reign, which saw him defending the title against Superstars like Jey Uso and Sheamus, was a direct result of the faith WWE had in his long-term commitment.

The comfort perk, while seemingly minor, is a powerful symbol. It shows that WWE is willing to personalize contracts to keep their biggest stars happy and healthy, setting a new precedent for future negotiations with other tall or veteran performers who endure the rigorous road schedule.