10 Things You Didn't Know About Finn Balor

10. He Used To Run A Wrestling School

Finn Balor’s wrestling career began with NWA Hammerlock, and he debuted in 2000 at just 18 years of age. He quickly advanced through the UK promotion’s ranks, capturing their British Commonwealth Heavyweight Championship and touring the UK, Ireland, and the United States shortly after graduating.

With the Irish wrestling scene floundering, Balor took a big step two years later and started his own wrestling school and promotion under the famous NWA banner. It was a mutually beneficial relationship: the NWA remain one of the most storied institutions in wrestling, and Balor’s “NWA Ireland” helped build their brand in the neglected Irish market.

Opening a training school usually comes as part of a wrestler’s retirement plan. In choosing to go down this route while still wetting his feet in the business, Balor’s love and appreciation for the business were immediately apparent. It’s no wonder he’s made it this far.