WWE fans are set for an exciting first-time showdown as CM Punk defends the World Heavyweight Championship against Finn Balor on next week’s Raw, part of WWE’s continuing overseas tour. The highly anticipated match, featuring the prominent rivalry of CM Punk vs Finn Balor, will take place in Belfast, Northern Ireland—marking the first-ever singles bout between the two superstars.
How the Title Match Was Set Up on WWE Raw
The match was organized during Monday’s episode of Raw in Dusseldorf, Germany. During the broadcast, CM Punk was delivering a promo inside the ring when he was interrupted by Finn Balor. The confrontation quickly escalated and led to the official announcement of their upcoming match for the prestigious title.
Earlier that evening, Finn Balor was backstage, engaged in a video game, when Liv Morgan and Roxanne Perez playfully criticized him for not being more assertive in seeking big opportunities within WWE. As they walked away, Balor quietly responded with the phrase “watch me,” a moment that set the tone for his subsequent challenge to Punk in the ring.
Finn Balor’s Journey Back to a Major Championship
Finn Balor, hailing from Belfast, Northern Ireland, is a former WWE Universal Champion known for his determination inside the squared circle. His reign as Universal Champion in August 2016 was short-lived due to an injury he suffered during his victory against Seth Rollins, resulting in him relinquishing the title just one day later. Since then, Balor has added the Intercontinental Championship, the NXT Championship, the United States Title, and multiple Tag Team Championship runs to his résumé on both WWE brands.
His most recent attempt at capturing the World Heavyweight Championship occurred in December 2024 during a triple threat match on Saturday Night’s Main Event, competing against then-champion Gunther and Damian Priest. Despite a strong showing, Balor was unable to secure the championship at that time.
Fan Excitement Builds Ahead of the Showdown
Speculation and enthusiasm have surged in the lead-up to the Belfast match, with fans eager to witness this unique encounter. As WWE continues its global tour, this first-ever singles contest between CM Punk and Finn Balor is expected to draw significant attention, especially with both athletes at pivotal points in their careers. The outcome of this match could set the stage for future storylines and title pursuits within WWE.
“Things are heating up! 😲Are we getting @CMPunk vs @FinnBalor in Belfast, Ireland NEXT WEEK for the World Heavyweight Championship? pic.twitter.com/c1sNm1263m”
—WWE (@WWE)
As the international tour progresses and anticipation mounts, WWE Raw’s visit to Belfast promises to deliver a historic clash between two of the company’s most accomplished superstars, with the World Heavyweight Championship on the line and the eyes of the wrestling world watching closely.
Things are heating up! 😲
Are we getting @CMPunk vs @FinnBalor in Belfast, Ireland NEXT WEEK for the World Heavyweight Championship? pic.twitter.com/c1sNm1263m
— WWE (@WWE) January 12, 2026
