Podcast Summary: "Damian Priest" on "What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes"

Podcast Information:

• Title: What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes
• Host/Author: WWE Podcasts
• Episode: Damian Priest
• Release Date: June 11, 2025
• Description: An engaging conversation between WWE Superstar Cody Rhodes and Damian Priest, delving into wrestling experiences, personal struggles, friendships, and inspirations beyond the ring.

1. Introduction and Setting the Stage [00:00 - 01:00]

Cody Rhodes welcomes Damian Priest, the American Nightmare, aboard his tour bus for an unfiltered conversation. Cody expresses his admiration for Damian's drive and highlights Damian's status as a former World Heavyweight Champion and a potential future WWE Champion.

Notable Quote:

• Cody Rhodes [00:58]: "Listen, ladies and gentlemen, all the way from Puerto Rico, the one and only, the one and only Damian Priest. How you doing, boss?"

2. Discussing the "Bound by Honor" Match [01:00 - 07:10]

Cody reminisces about their match at Ring of Honor’s "Bound by Honor" event. He shares his aspiration to replicate Haku’s iconic chair slam but explains the challenges they faced with inadequate equipment, leading to multiple unsuccessful attempts.

Notable Quotes:

• Cody Rhodes [02:13]: "I so badly wanted to do this thing that I saw Haku do many years ago when a wooden chair was slammed over his head."
• Cody Rhodes [03:00]: "We decided full speed ahead. We go with it. And I hit you with this chair. And the effect isn't there because the chair doesn't break."

3. Early Career and Impact of Cody’s Arrival [07:10 - 12:00]

Damian discusses the significance of Cody joining Ring of Honor and how it legitimized the company, attracting other stars and elevating the overall vibe in the locker room. Cody reflects on the shift in atmosphere and his integration into the wrestling community.

Notable Quotes:

• Damian Priest [07:10]: "When you came in, you legitimize like, okay, stars, come here."
• Cody Rhodes [07:58]: "Everyone's been going through it, and I. And. And overpaid as well."

4. Personal Life and Friendship with Rhea Ripley [12:00 - 21:00]

The duo discusses Damian’s close friendship with Rhea Ripley, highlighting how they met at an NXT PC holiday party. They delve into Rhea's inspiring journey of moving across the world to achieve her dreams, despite personal sacrifices. Cody admires Rhea’s authenticity and resilience, emphasizing her role as a motivating figure for both wrestlers.

Notable Quotes:

• Damian Priest [14:04]: "She just thought I was hysterical and then just gravitated towards me as."
• Cody Rhodes [20:02]: "They’re such a wonderful couple... they moved everything they could to come here and create this brand for themselves."

5. Training at the Monster Factory and Building Friendships [21:00 - 35:00]

Damian shares his experiences at the Monster Factory, discussing his training under Larry Sharp and later under Jim Molino and Ed Atlas. He recounts forming a deep bond with Cody, facilitated by their shared commitment to the craft and sincerity in their interactions.

Notable Quotes:

• Damian Priest [30:27]: "We trained at the Monster Factory when Larry Sharp owned it."
• Cody Rhodes [31:44]: "I've bought a few boots. But Scott showed back up and it was a matter of $300."

6. Overcoming Personal Struggles and Turning Point [35:00 - 44:00]

Damian opens up about a challenging period in his life where he struggled with laziness and unhappiness, managing a strip club in Atlantic City. An ultimatum to quit wrestling pushed him to make significant lifestyle changes, leading to weight loss, renewed focus, and a resurgence in his wrestling career.

Notable Quotes:

• Damian Priest [35:31]: "I was managing a strip club in Atlantic City. It was Stilettos at the time."
• Cody Rhodes [37:53]: "Mediocrity loves company. And it's nice to have company. It is."
• Damian Priest [38:14]: "Without hesitation I said, yeah, you have my two weeks notice. I walked out of that office and it was like, what did I just do?"

7. Friendship and Inspirations from Wrestling Legends [44:00 - 55:00]

The conversation shifts to Damian's admiration for Razor Ramon (Scott Hall) and how important Hall's mentorship was in shaping his wrestling persona. Damian details his interactions with Scott Hall and Kevin Nash, highlighting the lessons learned and the influence these legends had on his career and style.

Notable Quotes:

• Damian Priest [55:43]: "Razor Ramon, that was the initial introduction to me... the surfer walk, the cha cha cha thing."
• Cody Rhodes [58:12]: "One of the lost arts is you can do the job for somebody in pro wrestling or you can do the honors."

8. Personal Stories and Camaraderie on the Road [55:00 - 75:00]

Cody and Damian share humorous and heartfelt stories from their time on the road, including mishaps on flights and bonding moments during tours. They emphasize the importance of camaraderie, mutual respect, and the support system within the wrestling community.

Notable Quotes:

• Cody Rhodes [66:02]: "I was on the bus, nearly dead. Cage matches in the premium match of the night."
• Damian Priest [68:19]: "You kept me, man."

9. Fun Segments and Closing Remarks [75:00 - 75:57]

The episode concludes with Cody and Damian engaging in a playful segment involving Wheatley American Vodka, further showcasing their camaraderie and good-natured humor. They express gratitude for each other's presence and reflect on the memorable moments they've shared.

Notable Quotes:

• Cody Rhodes [71:37]: "Wheatley so good, so good I drink it. I drink it to take it easy."
• Damian Priest [75:36]: "Love that guy, and I appreciate his contributions."

Key Insights and Themes:

1. Resilience and Overcoming Adversity: Damian Priest's journey from personal struggles to professional resurgence underscores the importance of resilience and determination in achieving one's dreams.

2. Impact of Mentorship and Friendship: The strong bond between Cody Rhodes and Damian Priest, along with Damian's admiration for wrestling legends like Scott Hall, highlights the significance of mentorship and supportive friendships in personal and professional growth.

3. Authenticity and Personal Growth: Both Cody and Damian emphasize staying true to oneself, the value of authenticity, and continuous personal development within the competitive world of professional wrestling.

4. Humor and Camaraderie: The light-hearted and humorous exchanges illustrate the camaraderie and mutual respect among WWE Superstars, contributing to a positive and supportive environment.

5. Inspiration Beyond Wrestling: Discussions about Rhea Ripley and personal turning points reveal inspirations that extend beyond the wrestling ring, showcasing the multifaceted lives of the athletes.

Conclusion:

The episode offers a deep and engaging exploration of Damian Priest's wrestling career, personal challenges, and meaningful relationships within the WWE community. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of Damian's journey and the bonds that shape his path in professional wrestling.