10 Best WWE Wrestlers Of 2020 (So Far)
9. Damian Priest
The former Punishment Martinez has been one of NXT’s main highlights this year, providing excellent work every week he’s on television. While people scoffed at the name change to Damian Priest and the “Archer of Infamy” gimmick, Priest has made it work with glorious panache. His Floridian rooftop promos coated in darkness where he calls out his opponents with a relentless stare and sadistic glee in his voice are the best vignettes in the company right now.
His character being one that can be embraced sincerely and ironically is welcome entertainment in the often self-serious NXT, and is backed up by his incredible work in ring. His early matches upon signing are proof that he’s capable of a grounded shooter style of wrestling, but with this outlandish character, Priest’s matches have become blockbuster events. He uses his long legs to mercilessly kick his opponents, has a great chokeslam and moves absurdly quickly for a man of his size.
Priest is remarkably consistent and is only gaining momentum, with the Archer giving Finn Bálor his best singles match since returning to the black and yellow brand at In Your House, and having excellent battles with Keith Lee on weekly TV. He’s one of the best big men in the company, brilliant at elevating his opponents and capable of way more variety than might be expected. Additionally, he took the gnarliest bump in WWE all year with the ring steps, so he deserves a spot on here for that alone.