9 Directions WWE Champion Sheamus Can Go From Here

3. Facing Finn

This one's risky, and would perhaps best be used as a half-sized feud, lasting a couple of weeks before Sheamus moves on to a new opponent for TLC. Kevin Owens caused a great deal of commotion when he forced his way onto the main roster, immediately singling out (and defeating) John Cena. Were WWE to repeat the trick with a babyface - specifically, current NXT Champion Finn Balor - it would immediately generate a lot of attention. Finn has the look and gimmick to captivate younger fans, as well as the ability and indie experience to please the smarks. The all-Irish framework for this feud is already in place, as well as an ambitious upstart vs. arrogant champ narrative. Now, there's no way Balor should actually take the WWE Championship from the Celtic Warrior, but a valiant effort would set him in good stead for the next stage of his career. In fact, why not have Kevin Owens cost Balor his match with the champ (angry at Finn stealing his thunder), thereby setting up an immediate feud between two former NXT stars for the Intercontinental Championship.