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Trick Williams just delivered the biggest moment of his WWE career last night on SmackDown. The rising star pinned Damian Priest, a former world champion, to secure his spot in the prestigious Elimination Chamber. With WrestleMania 42 on the horizon, Williams is finally getting his moment in the spotlight.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Event: WWE SmackDown, February 20, 2026, at Amerant Bank Arena in Fort Lauderdale
- Match: Triple Threat Elimination Chamber Qualifier featuring Trick Williams, Damian Priest, and Carmelo Hayes
- Finish: Williams delivered two consecutive Trick Shots to pin Priest and advance to the Chamber
- Stakes: The Elimination Chamber winner challenges WWE Champion Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42
A Dream Match Against Former Blood Brothers
The triple threat qualifier featured an intriguing dynamic. Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes were once members of the legendary Trick Melo Gang in NXT, a bonded partnership that helped define their early careers. However, the path to WWE SmackDown transformed their friendship into fierce rivalry.
Damian Priest, the former World Champion, entered the match as the perceived favorite. Early on, the chemistry between Williams and Hayes was noticeably absent as Priest dominated with powerful strikes and his signature offense. The tension between the former allies only intensified as the match progressed, with both men occasionally teaming up to survive Priest’s relentless assault.
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Priest’s Dominance Nearly Sealed Victory
For much of the encounter, Damian Priest controlled the pace with two Razor’s Edge attempts, nearly ending the match on multiple occasions. Carmelo Hayes interrupted one particular attempt by delivering his signature Nothing but Net move, keeping himself alive in the competition. The United States Champion showcased why he’s a formidable competitor on the SmackDown roster.
However, Trick Williams remained patient, waiting for his opportunity. When the moment arrived, he didn’t hesitate. A gassed-out Williams executed a Hail Mary attempt, delivering not one but two consecutive Trick Shots to put away the former world champion and secure his advancement.
Chamber Participants and WrestleMania Stakes
| Confirmed Participants | Status |
| Trick Williams (qualified last night) | Secured |
| Randy Orton | Secured |
| Cody Rhodes | Secured |
| LA Knight | Secured |
| Je’Von Evans | Secured |
| One Final Spot | TBA |
With five of six spots now filled, WWE has built an impressive lineup for next Saturday’s Elimination Chamber in Chicago. The match will determine who gets the opportunity to face WWE Champion Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania 42, the industry’s biggest stage.
“Trick Willy scores the biggest win of his WWE career on the road to WrestleMania 42.”
— Cageside Seats, Pro Wrestling Coverage
Williams Emerges as 2026’s Breakout Star
Trick Williams has quickly become one of 2026’s biggest success stories since his main roster call-up. His performances have consistently impressed, and he’s now positioned himself among WWE’s elite talent. The ability to defeat a former world champion like Damian Priest demonstrates his tremendous growth as a performer.
Many expected Randy Orton or Cody Rhodes to be the favorites in the Elimination Chamber match. However, Williams has earned his seat at the table through hard work and undeniable in-ring ability. His journey from NXT star to SmackDown championship contender represents the best of WWE’s talent development.
What’s Next for Trick Williams in Chicago?
The Elimination Chamber presents five dangerous opponents for Trick Williams, each with different motivations and championship dreams. Will he maintain his momentum and become the surprise winner? The structure of the Elimination Chamber often favors the prepared and focused competitor, qualities Williams has demonstrated repeatedly.
One thing is certain: Trick Williams has announced his arrival at wrestling’s highest level. His victory over Damian Priest wasn’t just a qualifier for next week’s event—it was a statement that he belongs among WWE’s championship conversation. Watch closely in Chicago.
Sources
- Cageside Seats – Coverage of Trick Williams’ Elimination Chamber qualifier victory over Damian Priest and Carmelo Hayes on WWE SmackDown
- Last Word on Sports – Detailed match analysis and storyline breakdown of the triple threat qualifier inside Amerant Bank Arena
- WWE.com – Official results and participant confirmations for 2026 Elimination Chamber match
