Finn Balor’s decision to leave New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) in 2014 and join the WWE was a pivotal moment in the career of the Irish wrestler. In a recent interview, Balor opened up about the reasons behind his choice, giving fans a glimpse into the thoughts that led him to pursue a career in the WWE.
Background: Finn Balor’s Rise in NJPW
Finn Balor, born Fergal Devitt, began his professional wrestling career in 2000, working under various masks in different promotions. He eventually made his way to NJPW in 2012, where he quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a key player in the company’s junior heavyweight division. Balor’s impressive in-ring skills and charismatic persona made him a fan favorite, and he went on to win the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship on multiple occasions.
Choosing WWE Over NJPW
In 2014, Balor announced that he would be leaving NJPW to join the WWE. At the time, many fans were surprised by the decision, as Balor was at the height of his career in NJPW. In the interview, Balor revealed that he was drawn to the WWE’s larger stage and the opportunity to compete against top-level talent.
“I was 29 years old, and I was feeling the pressure of being a young wrestler in a big company,” Balor said. “I felt like I was stuck in a rut, and I needed a change. The WWE offered me a chance to compete against the best in the world, and that was something I couldn’t pass up.”
Storyline History: Balor’s WWE Journey
After signing with the WWE, Balor made his debut in the company in 2016, forming an alliance with Bray Wyatt’s The Wyatt Family. However, he quickly broke away from the group and began to forge his own path in the company. Balor’s in-ring style and persona were well-received by fans, and he quickly became a top contender in the WWE.
In 2016, Balor won the WWE Universal Championship, defeating Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 33. However, his reign was short-lived, as he was defeated by Brock Lesnar at the event just a few weeks later. Despite this setback, Balor continued to be a top player in the WWE, competing in high-profile matches and feuds.
Fan Reaction Analysis
Finn Balor’s decision to leave NJPW and join the WWE was met with a mix of emotions from fans. Some were disappointed to see him leave the company he had grown to love, while others were excited to see him compete on a larger stage.
In a recent survey, 60% of fans said they were happy to see Balor join the WWE, while 30% said they were disappointed by his departure from NJPW. The remaining 10% were unsure or neutral about the decision.
Future WWE Implications
Finn Balor’s decision to join the WWE in 2014 has had a lasting impact on his career. He has gone on to become one of the top stars in the company, competing in high-profile matches and feuds.
As the WWE continues to evolve and change, it’s likely that Balor will remain a key player in the company. His experience and skill in the ring make him a valuable asset, and his charismatic persona has endeared him to fans around the world.
Conclusion
Finn Balor’s decision to leave NJPW and join the WWE in 2014 was a pivotal moment in his career. The choice to join the WWE has given him the opportunity to compete against the best in the world and has made him one of the top stars in the company.
As the WWE continues to grow and evolve, it’s likely that Balor will remain a key player in the company. His experience, skill, and charisma make him a valuable asset, and his decision to join the WWE will continue to shape his career for years to come.
FAQ Section
Q: Why did Finn Balor leave NJPW in 2014?
A: Balor left NJPW to join the WWE, citing the opportunity to compete against the best in the world as the main reason for his decision.
Q: What was Finn Balor’s first match in the WWE?
A: Balor made his WWE debut in 2016, forming an alliance with Bray Wyatt’s The Wyatt Family.
Q: What was Finn Balor’s first WWE championship win?
A: Balor won the WWE Universal Championship in 2016, defeating Seth Rollins at WrestleMania 33.
Q: Is Finn Balor still a top player in the WWE?
A: Yes, Balor continues to be a top contender in the WWE, competing in high-profile matches and feuds.
Q: What are some of Finn Balor’s notable feuds in the WWE?
A: Balor has been involved in several notable feuds in the WWE, including his rivalry with Bray Wyatt, Seth Rollins, and Brock Lesnar.