The go-home episode of WWE Monday Night Raw this Monday, August 25, 2025, will feature a highly anticipated singles match between two of WWE’s most charismatic and skilled superstars, AJ Styles and Finn Balor. This clash is expected to serve as a major highlight ahead of the big premium live event Clash in Paris, scheduled for Sunday, August 31, 2025.
AJ Styles vs. Finn Balor: A Renewed Rivalry
According to reliable insider reports from TC WrestleVotes, the tonight’s Raw broadcast live from Birmingham, England, will showcase AJ Styles battling Finn Balor one-on-one[1][4]. The pairing pits two former leaders of the famed Bullet Club faction against each other—bringing both nostalgia and competitive intensity to the ring.
AJ Styles has recently been embroiled in a heated feud with Dominik Mysterio over the Intercontinental Championship, while Finn Balor, alongside tag partner JD McDonagh, currently holds the WWE World Tag Team Titles. This singles bout represents a compelling narrative thread: former allies turned rivals, each fighting to maintain momentum heading into Clash in Paris.
A WWE insider shared, “This match is not just about competition; it’s about legacy and proving who is the true ‘phenomenal’ performer between these two. The chemistry and history between Styles and Balor promise a match full of technical prowess and high stakes.”
Context and History of the Feud
This isn’t the first time Styles and Balor have crossed paths in WWE. The two have a history of three high-quality matches, with Balor holding a slight edge, having won two of those encounters, including their last encounter on SmackDown two years ago[2]. However, last time they met, AJ Styles secured a decisive victory, leaving the door open for Balor to seek retribution.
The ongoing storyline also brings in undercurrents of their association with The Judgment Day faction and their evolving ambitions, especially with Styles aiming to reclaim glory in the Intercontinental title picture.
Other Matches and Segments on Monday Night Raw
Monday’s Raw will be an action-packed show, setting the stage for Clash in Paris. The card includes:
- Roman Reigns is slated to kick off the show, continuing his build-up toward the anticipated title match against Bronson Reed.
- Nikki Bella will address her fierce rivalry with Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch, adding more drama to the women’s division.
- In women’s in-ring action, Rhea Ripley faces off against former Women’s Tag Team Champion Roxanne Perez, promising an intense contest.
- Lucha libre star Penta is also set for a one-on-one confrontation with Kofi Kingston of The New Day, adding a dynamic bout to show diversity.
Furthermore, Monday’s Raw will air live at a special time of 3 p.m. ET on Netflix, targeting WWE’s international audience with its global appeal[1].
Strategic Implications for Clash in Paris
The Styles vs. Balor match on Raw functions as a crucial “go-home” or final tune-up match before the Clash in Paris pay-per-view. Both superstars have motivations beyond personal pride—AJ Styles is gunning for the Intercontinental Championship held by Dominik Mysterio, while Balor’s main focus remains the tag team gold alongside JD McDonagh.
By having these two veterans collide, WWE emphasizes the depth and quality of its roster heading into an international premium live event. This match can tip momentum toward either competitor, possibly influencing future title pictures and narrative directions post-Clash in Paris.
What Fans Can Expect Tonight
Fans tuning in should expect a technical, fast-paced, and high-drama contest. Both Styles and Balor are known for their ability to tell compelling stories in the ring — blending striking, submission maneuvers, and high-flying agility.
Based on previous encounters[3], their matches typically feature intense back-and-forth action with near falls, crisp counters, and dramatic selling of injuries, especially focusing on Balor’s bad leg and Styles’ resilience. Tonight’s showdown is expected to amplify these elements, creating a must-watch experience.
Behind the Scenes: WWE’s Vision for This Match
A source close to WWE creative revealed, “The goal with Styles vs. Balor tonight is to remind fans why these two are considered among the best in the world. It’s about building excitement without giving away the big payoffs at Clash in Paris. WWE wants this match to resonate internationally—especially with the European crowd.”
This strategy reflects WWE’s push to spotlight marquee talent during live events abroad, capitalizing on Styles’ and Balor’s global fan bases.
Monday Night Raw’s AJ Styles vs. Finn Balor promises to be a highlight on a star-studded card, setting the tone for Clash in Paris this Sunday. Wrestling enthusiasts will be watching closely as two of WWE’s elite performers clash in what could be a defining moment in their ongoing feud. Don’t miss the action live on Netflix at 3 p.m. ET.