Damian Priest turns heel on R-Truth after SmackDown tag team loss

Damian Priest ended his partnership with R-Truth by turning heel during the September 11, 2026, episode of WWE SmackDown in Mexico City. The betrayal occurred following a failed attempt by the duo to capture the AAA World Tag Team Championship from The War Raiders, Erik and Ivar.

After losing the match to the Ragnarok finisher, Priest initially appeared to support Truth, even helping him up and presenting him with a sombrero. However, Priest suddenly attacked Truth with a lariat and followed up with a ‘South of Heaven’ chokeslam.

The split follows a period of growing tension, as Priest had reportedly become frustrated with Truth’s comedic style and his desire to return to the singles championship scene. The pair had previously held the WWE Tag Team Championship for nearly five months before losing them to Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga in August 2026.