Drew McIntyre is set for an extended absence from WWE television programming following his physically demanding Steel Cage match against Damian Priest at Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24, 2025. McIntyre himself confirmed he had been performing for WWE while injured, with reports indicating this upcoming break is dedicated to his recovery.
McIntyre openly stated he was “working hurt” leading into the Saturday night contest. He revealed that the injury was sustained at WWE Backlash earlier in May 2025, when a chokeslam from Damian Priest through a table caused McIntyre’s head to hit the floor with force. This incident has left him with lingering neck issues, including an inability to fully turn his head to the left.
Despite this condition, Drew McIntyre passed medical evaluations and received clearance to compete at Saturday Night’s Main Event. He commented on the prevalence of athletes wrestling through pain, particularly as they get older, and noted a shift in WWE’s approach towards injury management, emphasizing longevity and proper care more so than in past eras where performing through significant injuries was more common.
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The Steel Cage match against Damian Priest saw McIntyre defeated after Priest delivered a Con-Chair-To that left him unconscious. According to backstage reports, this match marked the conclusion of McIntyre’s current run with WWE as he heads into a period of recuperation.
Reports have clarified that this hiatus is primarily for health reasons, following months of McIntyre working through his injury and the physical toll of his feud with Priest, and is not related to any rumored pursuits of Hollywood roles.
READ MORE: Drew McIntyre Opens Up About Rivalry With Damian Priest, Shares If He Enjoyed It
