Finn Balor Set To Challenge CM Punk For World Heavyweight Championship On 1/19 WWE Raw
Finn Balor returns to the world title picture.
Punk kicked off his promo by telling fans that he plans to hold the World Heavyweight Championship forever, no matter how outlandish the idea sounds. Punk praised fans for their support, saying that it increases his chances of holding the title for as long as possible.
The ‘Best In The World’ then spoke briefly about the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber events, saying that the Road To WrestleMania goes through him. Finn Balor interrupted to a shocked reaction from the crowd.
Balor was blunt with his words, telling Punk that he’s not waiting for either of those shows. Balor also noted that he isn’t asking for a handout, reminding fans that Punk mentioned him in his first promo as champion.
Punk fired back at Balor for not showing initiative sooner, accusing him of complacency. Punk also blasted Balor for his Judgment Day ties, questioning if he’ll get the real Finn Balor if a match happens. The ‘Second City Saint’ offered to have the match tonight, but Balor declined and set the match for next week’s Raw instead. That show will take place in Ireland.
"Some weeks I swear you're just shining Liv Morgan's shoes" 👀@CMPunk is not holding back on @FinnBalor! pic.twitter.com/BG2Somdeee
— WWE (@WWE) January 12, 2026
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
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