High Stakes and High Drama: SmackDown’s Tournament Scene Heats Up
WWE SmackDown delivered a blockbuster episode on November 21, 2025, as Penta scored a dramatic upset victory over Finn Balor in the opening round of the highly-anticipated “Last Time Is Now” tournament[1][7]. With the winner edging closer to a coveted shot at Intercontinental Champion John Cena, the stakes could not have been higher. The match showcased why both athletes are considered among the most dynamic and unpredictable forces in professional wrestling today.
Penta vs. Finn Balor: Clash of Styles and Attitudes
The anticipation was palpable inside the arena as Penta made his entrance, his trademark intensity radiating from the moment he stepped onto the ramp[5]. Across the ring stood Finn Balor, representing The Judgment Day, exuding confidence and seasoned poise[1]. Balor, known for his mind games and technical mastery, aimed to suffocate Penta’s offense and grind out a victory—a strategy he’s perfected over years competing worldwide[2].
From the opening bell, Balor sought to assert control, grounding Penta and leveraging his big-match experience to frustrate the high-flying luchador[7]. Balor’s offense was crisp: disabling maneuvers, sharp strikes, and a relentless focus on wearing down Penta’s limbs. Yet, as the commentary team noted, “You just can’t put Penta in a box”—his in-ring versatility allowed him to adapt and counter Balor’s every move[2].
The Turning Point: Penta’s No Fear Resilience
Midway through the match, Balor seemed to have the upper hand, connecting with a gutbuster and nearly sealing the deal with a devastating double stomp from the top rope[2]. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as Balor pressed his advantage, showing flashes of his killer instinct. But Penta, living up to his “No Fear” mantra, absorbed the punishment and found an opening.
In a pivotal sequence, Penta caught Balor with a precise counter—grabbing Balor’s leg and unleashing a flurry of strikes that shifted the momentum[7]. From there, Penta showcased his signature blend of technical mastery and hard-hitting offense, targeting Balor’s foundation and leaving the veteran reeling. As one ringside observer put it, “Penta doesn’t just beat you; he breaks you down piece by piece.”
The Finish: Penta Seals the Upset
The contest reached its fever pitch as both men traded desperate maneuvers, each sensing the magnitude of the moment. Ultimately, it was Penta who seized control, unleashing an explosive sequence culminating in his trademark springboard offense. Balor fought valiantly, but Penta’s relentless assault proved too much. After a final, bone-jarring attack, Penta scored the decisive pinfall, sending shockwaves through the SmackDown roster and advancing to the next round of the “Last Time Is Now” tournament[7].
Backstage Buzz: WWE Insider Reaction
The backstage area was abuzz following the match, with many Superstars and officials recognizing the significance of Penta’s victory. According to a WWE insider who spoke on condition of anonymity, “This is the kind of win that changes careers. Finn Balor is a measuring stick in WWE, and Penta just proved he belongs in the conversation with the very best. There’s a real belief that Penta could go all the way in this tournament.”
Penta himself was seen celebrating with fellow competitors, visibly energized by the win. In a brief backstage interview, he said, “No fear, no limits. Tonight was about showing the world what I can do on the biggest stage. Finn Balor is a legend, but my time is now.”
Tournament Implications: Who Faces John Cena?
With Penta advancing, the tournament landscape has shifted dramatically. The “Last Time Is Now” tournament is designed to identify the next challenger for John Cena’s Intercontinental Championship—a prize that has drawn intense competition from WWE’s top talent[1]. Other first-round matches saw LA Knight and Jey Uso advance, while Sheamus and Rusev have also punched their tickets to the quarterfinals[6].
Penta’s victory sets up a tantalizing quarterfinal matchup, with fans and insiders alike speculating about his chances to go the distance. Cena himself took to social media to acknowledge the win, posting, “Respect to Penta—he’s showing why this tournament is the proving ground for greatness.”
Finn Balor: What’s Next for The Judgment Day’s Ace?
For Finn Balor, the loss is a bitter pill—especially given his recent run of form and the momentum The Judgment Day has been building. Balor was visibly frustrated after the match, but sources close to the veteran suggest he remains focused on future opportunities. “Finn isn’t done. He’ll find a way to bounce back, like he always does. The Judgment Day never stays down for long,” said a source close to Balor.
Fan Reaction: Social Media Erupts
WWE’s global fanbase lit up social media in the wake of Penta’s upset. Hashtags like #PentaWins and #LastTimeIsNow trended throughout the night, with many fans praising the match as an instant classic. One fan tweeted, “Penta vs. Finn was everything I wanted—high stakes, high intensity, and a finish that nobody saw coming!”
Others pointed to the tournament’s unpredictability as a sign of WWE’s renewed commitment to fresh matchups and elevating new stars. “This is the kind of thing that makes SmackDown must-see. Penta’s run is the story to watch,” wrote another.
The Road Ahead: Can Penta Go All The Way?
As the “Last Time Is Now” tournament continues, all eyes are on Penta. His unique combination of fearlessness, adaptability, and raw power makes him a formidable threat to anyone left in the bracket. The win over Finn Balor is more than just an upset—it’s a statement that Penta’s time may truly be now.
With the quarterfinals looming and John Cena watching closely, Penta’s journey is just beginning. WWE fans will be counting down the days until his next showdown, eager to see whether he can maintain his momentum and fulfill his destiny as the tournament’s breakout star.
Key Takeaways:
- Penta defeated Finn Balor to advance in SmackDown’s “Last Time Is Now” tournament[7].
- The winner of the tournament will face Intercontinental Champion John Cena at a future major event[1].
- Backstage sources and fan reactions underscore the significance of Penta’s upset win.
- The tournament continues to deliver unpredictable and must-see action.
Stay tuned to WWE SmackDown for ongoing updates on the “Last Time Is Now” tournament and the latest developments as Penta’s remarkable run continues.