Finn Bálor Bio
Fergal Devitt (born 25 July 1981) is an Irish professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, where he performs as Finn Bálor. He is a prominent figure known for his tenure in New Japan Pro-Wrestling and his innovative persona which includes elaborate body paint and the character ‘The Demon’. Bálor has achieved widespread acclaim, celebrated for his performances and numerous accolades including multiple championships across different wrestling promotions, marking him as a significant figure in professional wrestling.
Early Life and Background
Fergal Devitt was born on 25 July 1981 in Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland, to parents Leonie and Fintan Devitt. He has one older sibling and three younger siblings. Devitt attended St. Cronan’s School in Bray. Before deciding to become a professional wrestler, he played association football and Gaelic football. Growing up, he enjoyed watching World of Sport and WWF shows and was a fan of The British Bulldogs, Shawn Michaels, Mr. Perfect, Rick Rude, Savio Vega, and Koko B. Ware.
Path to Professional Wrestling
After training at NWA UK Hammerlock, Devitt made his professional wrestling debut on 23 November 2001. He quickly won the NWA British Commonwealth Heavyweight Championship. Following his graduation, his wrestling career started quickly, and he began touring Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In mid-2002, Devitt, along with Paul Tracey, opened NWA Ireland, his own wrestling promotion based in Ireland. The promotion soon became the sister group of NWA UK Hammerlock as both promoted under the NWA banner. As part of NWA Ireland, Devitt trained future WWE competitor Becky Lynch and others.
Finn Bálor Career
Early Career (2001–2006)
Devitt’s early career was marked by his rapid rise in the independent circuit, where he showcased his talent and charisma. He made a name for himself in various promotions, including the National Wrestling Alliance. His debut match took place in 2001, and he quickly gained recognition by winning the NWA British Commonwealth Heavyweight Championship. His early achievements set the stage for a successful career in professional wrestling.
Breakthrough (2006–2014)
In 2006, Devitt signed a contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling and adopted the ring name Prince Devitt. He made his NJPW debut against El Samurai and quickly became a fan favorite. Devitt’s innovative style and charisma led him to become a three-time IWGP Junior Heavyweight Champion and a founding member of the Bullet Club stable. His time in NJPW solidified his reputation as one of the top wrestlers in the industry.
Notable Works and Milestones
Finn Bálor’s signature work includes his tenure in WWE, where he became the inaugural WWE Universal Champion at SummerSlam 2016. He is also a two-time Intercontinental Champion and a Grand Slam Champion. His unique persona, including the use of body paint, has made him a standout performer in the wrestling world.
Finn Bálor Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Finn Bálor has received numerous nominations for his contributions to professional wrestling, particularly during his time in WWE and NJPW.
Finn Bálor Awards Won
Finn Bálor has won multiple championships, including the IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship and the WWE Universal Championship. His accolades reflect his status as one of the top wrestlers in the industry.
Finn Bálor Family
Finn Bálor is married to Vero Rodríguez, a Mexican sports journalist. They tied the knot on 19 August 2019 in a private ceremony in Tulum, Mexico. The couple resides in Orlando, Florida.
Personal Life
In addition to his wrestling career, Bálor holds a first-degree black belt in IBF submission wrestling. He is known for his friendships with fellow wrestlers and is an avid comic book reader and collector of Lego. Bálor is also a supporter of the English football team Tottenham Hotspur FC.
