Finn Balor, the 2016 Royal Rumble winner and current WWE Superstar, has recently reminisced about the pivotal moment that led him to choose WWE over New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) back in 2014. In an interview with Wrestling Inc., Balor shared his thoughts on the decision that would ultimately alter the course of his wrestling career.
Born Fergal Devitt in Bray, Ireland, Finn Balor began his professional wrestling journey in 2000, training under the tutelage of Larry Sharpe at the Monster Factory. He made his debut in 2002, competing for various independent promotions before joining NJPW in 2013. During his time in NJPW, Balor formed a tag team with Karl Anderson, known as The Kingdom, and won the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship.
However, in 2014, Balor made the decision to leave NJPW and join WWE, citing a desire to compete at the highest level as the primary reason. “It was always the dream to be in the WWE,” Balor explained. “I think it’s one of the biggest promotions in the world, and I wanted to be a part of that.”
Balor’s decision to join WWE was not taken lightly, as he had established himself as a key player in NJPW. Nevertheless, the opportunity to compete in the WWE’s flagship events and face top talent around the world proved too enticing to resist. “I think it was just the right time for me to make the move,” Balor said. “I was 30 years old, and I felt like I was at a point where I could take on the challenge.”
Upon joining WWE, Balor made his debut in May 2014, competing in NXT. He quickly rose through the ranks, winning the NXT Championship and establishing himself as one of the promotion’s top stars. In 2016, Balor was called up to the main roster, making his debut at WrestleMania 32. He went on to win the Intercontinental Championship and the Raw Tag Team Championship with Braun Strowman.
Balor’s decision to join WWE has been met with widespread acclaim, with many fans and industry experts praising his decision to take on the challenge. “Finn is a talented wrestler who made a smart move by joining WWE,” said WWE commentator, Corey Graves. “He’s had an incredible career, and I’m sure he’s proud of the choices he’s made.”
The fan reaction to Balor’s decision has been overwhelmingly positive, with many fans expressing gratitude for the opportunity to see him compete in WWE. “I was a huge fan of Finn’s in NJPW, and I was thrilled to see him join WWE,” said Reddit user, Throwaway123456. “He’s been an incredible addition to the roster, and I’m so glad he made the move.”
Balor’s decision to join WWE has also had a significant impact on his in-ring career. He has competed in some of the biggest events in the industry, including WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series. His feud with The Wyatt Family in 2016 earned him widespread critical acclaim, with many praising his ability to tell a compelling story in the ring.
As for the future, Balor appears to be committed to his WWE career, having expressed a desire to compete for the WWE Championship. “My goal is to become the WWE Champion,” Balor said. “I feel like I have the talent and the drive to achieve that goal, and I’m excited to see where my career takes me.”
In conclusion, Finn Balor’s decision to join WWE in 2014 has been a resounding success. From his early days in NJPW to his current status as a top WWE Superstar, Balor has consistently demonstrated his dedication to the craft and his ability to adapt to new challenges. As he continues to compete at the highest level, fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see what the future holds for this talented wrestler.
FAQ Section
Q: What led Finn Balor to choose WWE over NJPW in 2014?
A: According to Balor, his desire to compete at the highest level and face top talent around the world was the primary reason for his decision.
Q: What was Finn Balor’s experience like in NJPW?
A: Balor joined NJPW in 2013 and formed a tag team with Karl Anderson, known as The Kingdom. During his time in NJPW, Balor won the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championship.
Q: What has been the impact of Finn Balor’s decision to join WWE?
A: Balor’s decision to join WWE has been met with widespread acclaim, with many fans and industry experts praising his decision to take on the challenge. He has gone on to compete in some of the biggest events in the industry and has established himself as one of WWE’s top stars.
Q: What are Finn Balor’s future goals?
A: Balor has expressed a desire to become the WWE Champion, citing his talent and drive as the reasons he believes he can achieve this goal.