In 2023, the WWE experienced significant moments at Judgment Day, particularly with the formidable heel faction led by Damian Priest and Finn Balor, known as Finn Balor & Damian Priest, reigning as the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions. On the SmackDown brand, Kit Wilson and Elton Prince, collectively known as Pretty Deadly, emerged as a top team, setting the stage for an intriguing showdown.

The excitement reached its peak when Pretty Deadly, former NXT Tag Team Champions, sought a change in plans. During a conversation with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, Kit Wilson proposed an alteration to their scheduled match against Butch and a mystery partner on the upcoming SmackDown. Wilson suggested a title bout against the current champions at Judgment Day. However, Nick Aldis firmly rejected the proposal, insisting that Pretty Deadly would proceed with their scheduled match against Butch and his mystery partner.

Reflecting on the successful year of 2023 for Judgment Day, key moments included Rhea Ripley’s victory in the Women’s Royal Rumble, leading to a triumphant challenge against Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 39 and capturing the Women’s Championship. Additionally, Damian Priest secured the Mr. Money in the Bank briefcase, and the tag team of Finn Balor and Damian Priest clinched the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship twice.

Further contributing to the faction’s success, Dominic Mysterio claimed the NXT North American Championship twice, while JD McDonough joined the formidable heel group a few months prior, adding another dimension to their dominance. As the year unfolded, the impact of Judgment Day resonated throughout WWE, setting the stage for more riveting storylines and intense rivalries in the coming months.