Finn Balor received a proper Superstar homecoming in Northern Ireland last night on Raw, even though he came up short in his quest to win the WWE World Heavyweight title from CM Punk.
With Punk out first, the arena lights went dark and fans started the “Ole” chant while fireflies filled up the SSE Arena.
Balor came out to his original NXT theme song with “Balor Country” on the video screen, and the Belfast crowd greeting the former leader of the Bullet Club with a thunderous ovation.
The 20-minute match ended with Punk victorious after a GTS. Following the win, Punk extended his hand to Balor and helped him back up, talked to him, and raised his arm. He then gave Balor a hug with fans applauding in the background.
When Raw went off the air, Balor was able to address the crowd.
“I just want to say that I feel very privileged to be here tonight. I’ve done a lot in my 25-year career in this business. And tonight is, without question, the most memorable night of my career so far,” he said. “You know, I don’t get to come home very often. And this week was very special because yesterday, for the first time in almost 15 years, I got to celebrate my mother’s birthday with her!”
Following the customary happy birthday song from the crowd, Balor thanked them for being able to do this on his home turf in front of his family and his people.
“You know what, it’s true what they say, there is no place like home. Thank you very much, Belfast,” he concluded.
