Damian Priest's WWE Re-Signing Came Down To The Wire

Damian Priest's WWE contract was perilously close to expiring, according to a report by Fightful Select which reads:

"Priest confirmed he’s signed a new deal with the company recently after his World Heavyweight Title win, while speaking with Cathy Kelley after WWE Raw. Fightful Select learned that the deal was completed a couple of months ago, and actually came down to the wire. Priest’s contract was up in February, and was just mere days away from expiring."

However, the report also clarifies that - according to WWE sources - the company had always planned on keeping Priest. The two sides had apparently talked a lot before the new contract was officially signed, meaning it may not have been a particularly difficult decision for the World Heavyweight Champion despite the late nature of negotiations.

Priest's contract extension meant he was able to go on and win the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 40, cashing in his Money in the Bank contract after Drew McIntyre's victory over Seth Rollins.

Priest successfully defended the title against Jey Uso at WWE's Backlash France event. McIntyre seems next in line for a title shot, possibly at the King and Queen of the Ring PLE in Saudi Arabia on May 25 or Clash at the Castle on June 15.