Yankee Stadium’s electrifying environment has a way of leaving an impact on its visitors. And for this young boy, who is now a WWE superstar, it’s no exception. You know what made him fall in love with the New York Yankees? Was it the hot dogs or the summer evenings? Or the view of green grass spreading out like an infinite carpet?
Neither it was hot dogs nor the summer evenings. For this superstar, it was the charm of another superstar that captivated him completely. It was none other than the Bronx legend Don Mattingly. You might be thinking that what’s not to love about Mattingly, but for him, there’s a memory attached to it.
Fast forward to now, the kid is WWE Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest. Though he is well-known and has achieved much in the wrestling industry, Priest is a passionate Yankees supporter who regularly praises the team’s athletes and the game itself. In a recent interview, when asked what made him fall in love with the Yankees, he said, “I went to a game as a kid, maybe 12 years old. I don’t remember much, I just remember they won 1-0 because Don Mattingly hit a home run. I just remember the vibe in the stadium, everybody screaming. I was like, ‘I love this feeling.”
Affectionately known as “Donnie Baseball,” Don Mattingly spent his 14-year MLB career with the New York Yankees. And his numbers were unbelievable. He had a .307 batting average, 2,153 hits, 222 home runs, and 1,099 RBIs. A six-time All-Star, he earned the 1985 American League MVP Award and claimed nine Gold Glove Awards, the second-most for a first baseman in MLB history. Indeed, a legend.
From the crack of Mattingly’s bat to the roar of the Bronx fans, the Yankees have a long tradition of motivating excellence. And now, WWE superstar Damian Priest draws motivation from the team’s captain, Aaron Judge. When asked about his meeting with Aaron Judge, he said, “Wow, his presence, his size. Just a class act of a human being.”
Priest’s ties to the Yankees go beyond simple fanatical devotion. He has done voiceovers for the team’s World Series hype film, among other promotional initiatives. His presence at Yankee Stadium, engaging with players like Judge, emphasises the mutual respect between the wrestler and the baseball club.
Priest’s respect for Judge goes beyond sharing Bronx origins. It’s about seeing excellence in motion. Judge, the Yankees’ present captain, still reflects the attitude that formerly motivated a young Priest. His latest performances, which enthrall both old and new admirers, are proof of his leadership and ability.
Back in the bay: Judge’s two-homer game highlights Yankees’ battle
Aaron Judge’s return to Northern California was nothing short of extraordinary. The Yankees’ slugger hit two solo home runs in Saturday’s Sutter Health Park game, raising his season total to a Major League-leading 14. His first bomb came in the fourth inning off former colleague JP Sears; his second was a massive 433-foot homer to center field in the sixth against Justin Sterner, who had previously maintained an 18 2/3 scoreless inning run. Judge’s heroics notwithstanding, the Yankees lost to the Athletics 11-7 as Shea Langeliers of Oakland drove in five runs, including a crucial three-run homer in the seventh inning.
Many were friends and family from his close hometown of Linden, California. The audience responded to Judge’s performance with shouts of “M-V-P.” Looking back on the assistance, Judge said, “Any time we play in California, they’ll show up anywhere.” His ties to the region and the supporters’ excitement highlighted the game’s unique character for the Yankees’ captain.
Yankees pitcher Carlos Rodón, who let four runs but struck out 10 in six innings, lauded Judge’s continuing brilliance. “Once again putting out great swings like he always does,” Rodón said. “Really good player.” His comments highlight Judge’s respected role in the team, emphasizing his power at the plate and strong leadership.
Despite the setback, Judge’s achievements continue to shine. A .396 batting average, 59 hits, and 37 RBIs over 39 games put him on track for one of the most remarkable offensive seasons in recent memory. His capacity to play at such a high level, particularly in front of a hometown audience, confirms his standing as one of baseball’s top performers.
From Don Mattingly’s legendary home run to Aaron Judge’s soaring shots. How do these events keep motivating the next generation of sportsmen such as Damian Priest?
The post WWE Heavyweight champ Recalls how Don Mattingly’s Influence at Age 12 Made him a Yankee for Life appeared first on EssentiallySports.
