5 Things we learned from Gunther and Damian Priest's WWE RAW melee - Judgment Day insult, new fan favorite

Gunther kicked off this week's episode of WWE RAW and delivered a fiery promo. He got under the crowd's skin by insulting them before he was interrupted by World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest.

The Judgment Day member received a tremendous reaction from the crowd and entered the ring with the leader of the Imperium. Priest and Gunther engaged in a massive brawl that lasted several minutes before they were finally separated by security.

Below are five things we learned during the melee between Priest and Gunther tonight on WWE RAW.

#5. The WWE Universe is behind Damian Priest

The Judgment Day is known as a heel faction, but it appears that WWE fans are starting to warm up to Damian Priest. He seemingly has become the babyface in this feud, while Gunther has made it known that he despises the fans. Priest got a big pop from the crowd tonight, and they were fully behind him during his brawl with Gunther.

Damian Priest defeated Seth Rollins at Money in the Bank but greatly benefited from CM Punk's interference in the match. He has already informed The Visionary that he will give him another shot at the title if he defeats Gunther at SummerSlam.

If the 41-year-old were still a heel, it would be very unlikely for him to show Rollins respect following their match and the crowd is beginning to recognize his character change.

#4. Gunther believes he is above everyone

Gunther started tonight's promo in an apologetic tone after calling Damian Priest "street trash" last week on WWE RAW. However, he got angry once the crowd started to boo him and took everything back. He stated that he meant everything he said and implied that he was better than everyone in attendance.

The 36-year-old orchestrated a historic reign as Intercontinental Champion that ended at WrestleMania XL. However, Gunther's success on the main roster seemingly has gone to his head, and his attitude has turned fans against him.

#3. The Ring General isn't taking Damian Priest seriously

Damian Priest and Gunther continued their brawl backstage after they were separated in the ring. Security again broke the two stars up, and it was announced that RAW General Manager Adam Pearce had sent both men home for the night.

Gunther has been talking down to Priest during their interactions so far and appears to be overlooking The Judgment Day member. His arrogance could come back to haunt him if he takes the World Heavyweight Champion lightly at the premium live event next month in Cleveland, Ohio.

#2. Gunther isn't a fan of The Judgment Day on WWE RAW

The Judgment Day is a popular faction on RAW. [Photo: WWE.com]

Gunther disclosed his true feelings about The Judgment Day during the opening segment of tonight's episode of WWE RAW. He claimed the entire group was street trash, not just Damian Priest.

There has been some tension within The Judgment Day recently due to Liv Morgan attempting to steal Dominik Mysterio away from Rhea Ripley. However, the former Intercontinental Champion may have inadvertently brought the group closer together by insulting them. The faction could get involved at SummerSlam and ensure Priest retains his World Heavyweight Championship.

#1. Damian Priest is not intimidated by Gunther

World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest has benefited from much outside interference during his title reign. CM Punk cost Drew McIntyre his chance to become champion at WWE Clash at the Castle and did so again earlier this month at Money in the Bank. However, Priest clearly is very confident in his abilities and is not intimidated by Gunther at all.

Priest was the aggressor in the melee tonight and went right after his SummerSlam opponent upon getting into the ring. He was also the one who initiated the backstage brawl after they were separated.

The Judgment Day star will be facing a world-class talent in Gunther at WWE SummerSlam, but he is heading into the World Heavyweight Championship with momentum on his side.