10 Things You Didn't Know About Finn Balor
The Demon once wrestled under a familiar masked gimmick in Japan...
After months of rumours, Finn Balor’s WWE main roster call-up is seemingly imminent. The former NXT Champion will finally conclude his business in developmental after his forthcoming match with Shinsuke Nakamura, and with the 2016 Brand Split looming, the timing couldn’t be better.
WWE could’ve pulled the trigger on Balor’s promotion at any point during The Club’s rise to prominence, but they were wise to wait. By keeping Balor in NXT for the past few months, WWE have allowed him to finish his feud with Samoa Joe, compete in a dream match with Nakamura, and bow out as the brand’s most celebrated competitor.
He’s done all there is to do in NXT, and he’s more than ready for the call-up. An eye-catching and unique performer with a great look and presence, Balor is readymade for immediate main roster success. Regardless of their plans for him on Raw or SmackDown, the Irishman is a complete WWE performer, and will succeed regardless of his role.
Whatever direction he takes, Balor is one of the most well-traveled wrestlers in WWE, and brings a unique blend of experiences from his 16 years in the business. There’s so much more to him than double-foot stomps and face paint: here are 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.