Penta made a seismic impact on WWE SmackDown, stunning the crowd and the locker room alike by defeating former multi-time champion Finn Balor to advance in the highly anticipated “Last Time Is Now” tournament. This victory cements Penta’s status as a legitimate threat in the race to face John Cena in his final WWE match, elevating the stakes of this already historic tournament.
The Tournament: A Pathway to Cena’s Final Match
WWE’s “Last Time Is Now” tournament has become the focal point of the wrestling world, as it determines who will earn the right to battle John Cena in his career-closing match at Saturday Night’s Main Event in Washington, DC, on December 13[2][4][5]. The tournament bracket has been filled with WWE’s biggest names and rising stars, each vying for a place in wrestling history. With established powerhouses such as Sheamus, Rusev, LA Knight, and Jey Uso already advancing to the quarterfinals, every match carries significant implications for the legacy of WWE’s greatest.
Friday’s SmackDown featured two critical first-round matchups: Penta vs. Finn Balor and Bronson Reed vs. Carmelo Hayes[2][4][5]. While every eye in the arena was on the ring, it was Penta’s performance that stole the show.
Penta vs. Balor: A Battle of Styles and Legacies
The clash between Penta and Finn Balor promised fireworks, and it delivered on every level. Balor, a former Universal Champion and leader of iconic factions, entered the bout with a reputation for thriving under pressure. In contrast, Penta, known for his ruthless lucha libre style and unpredictable offense, was regarded as a dangerous wildcard in the bracket[1][6].
From the opening bell, Balor attempted to dictate the pace, relying on his speed and technical prowess. Penta, however, countered with devastating strikes and innovative counters that kept Balor off-balance. The match saw a blend of high-flying maneuvers and gritty brawling, with both superstars refusing to yield an inch.
The crowd in Newark, New Jersey, was electric as Balor landed his signature Coup de Grâce, only for Penta to narrowly escape a pinfall. In the final moments, Penta unleashed a flurry of offense, culminating in his devastating Fear Factor piledriver, securing the pin and the victory. The arena erupted as Penta’s hand was raised, signifying the end of Balor’s run and the continuation of Penta’s Cinderella story[1][6].
Backstage Reaction: “Penta’s Here to Make History”
Backstage, the mood was a mix of shock and newfound respect. According to a WWE insider present at the Prudential Center, the victory sent “a jolt through the entire roster.” The source elaborated, “No one in this locker room is taking Penta lightly anymore. After tonight, he’s more than just a wildcard—he’s a legitimate contender to face Cena. Balor is as tough as they come, and Penta just pinned him clean on one of the biggest SmackDowns of the year.”
Penta himself, in a rare English interview after the match, said, “Tonight wasn’t just about me. It was about showing the world that lucha libre isn’t just tradition—it’s the future. I respect Finn, but this is my time. The world will remember my name.”
The Tournament Landscape: Quarterfinals Take Shape
With his victory, Penta joins an elite field of quarterfinalists, including Sheamus, Rusev, LA Knight, and Jey Uso[2][5]. The remaining first-round matches—Solo Sikoa vs. a mystery opponent and Gunther vs. Je’Von Evans—will be decided on the upcoming episode of Raw, finalizing the quarterfinal bracket[2][4][5].
Here’s a look at the updated tournament field:
| Quarterfinalists | Status |
|---|---|
| Sheamus | Advanced |
| Rusev | Advanced |
| LA Knight | Advanced |
| Jey Uso | Advanced |
| Penta | Advanced |
| Winner of Bronson Reed vs. Carmelo Hayes | To Be Determined |
| Winner of Gunther vs. Je’Von Evans | To Be Determined |
| Winner of Solo Sikoa vs. Mystery Opponent | To Be Determined |
The stakes could not be higher: the winner of the tournament will face John Cena in a match guaranteed to be one of the most emotional moments in WWE history as Cena bids farewell to in-ring competition[2][4][5].
Finn Balor’s Setback: What’s Next for The Prince?
For Finn Balor, the loss marks a disappointing end to his quest for another main event spotlight. Sources close to Balor suggest that while he is “frustrated and disappointed” by the outcome, he remains determined to bounce back. A member of Balor’s inner circle revealed, “Finn knows how to handle setbacks. He’s already talking about getting back in the title picture—this isn’t the last we’ll see of The Prince in a high-profile spot.”
The WWE Universe Reacts
Social media exploded in the aftermath of Penta’s victory, with fans worldwide expressing excitement and disbelief. The match quickly became one of the most talked-about topics, trending with hashtags such as #PentaRises and #LastTimeIsNow. Many fans praised WWE for the unpredictability of the tournament, which has seen established stars and international sensations alike shine on the biggest stage.
What Does Penta’s Win Mean for the Tournament?
Penta’s victory is significant for several reasons:
- Momentum: Defeating a superstar of Balor’s caliber gives Penta enormous momentum heading into the quarterfinals.
- Unpredictability: Penta’s diverse offense and lucha libre background make him a difficult opponent for anyone in the bracket.
- Global Appeal: Penta’s ascension underscores WWE’s ongoing emphasis on international talent, bringing fresh excitement to the product.
As the tournament continues, all eyes will be on Penta to see if he can maintain his momentum and possibly secure the ultimate prize: a one-on-one match with John Cena at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Looking Ahead: The Road to December 13
With the quarterfinals looming and the field narrowing, the pressure intensifies on every remaining competitor. The WWE Universe now has a new favorite to watch, and the path to Cena’s farewell match has never been more intriguing.
As SmackDown went off the air, Penta stood tall, signaling that his journey is far from over. One thing is clear: the “Last Time Is Now” tournament has become must-see television, and Penta’s victory over Finn Balor will be remembered as a defining moment in WWE’s modern era.