WWE World Tag Team Champion Finn Balor recently shared his reflections on working with WWE Hall of Famer Edge, whose career transition to AEW under the name Adam Copeland marks a significant shift in the wrestling landscape.
Balor’s Appreciation for Edge
In an interview with “WTSpod,” Balor expressed his admiration for Edge, acknowledging that he had been a fan of the Hall of Famer since his early days in wrestling. “I always admired Edge, like obviously as a fan when I was a kid … like I didn’t really appreciate him at the time, like how good he was,” Balor noted. Despite their paths not crossing immediately due to Edge’s retirement and Balor’s entry into WWE, the two eventually had the opportunity to work together.
Balor was initially aligned with Edge when The Judgment Day was formed in 2022. However, a dramatic storyline unfolded as Balor, Damian Priest, and Rhea Ripley turned on their leader. This led to a feud that lasted throughout 2022 and into 2023, culminating in a high-stakes Hell in a Cell match at WrestleMania 39 where Balor was defeated by Edge.
Surprising Duration of the Feud
Balor admitted that he didn’t expect his time working with Edge to be as prolonged as it turned out to be. “When we did work, I didn’t think it was going to last nine months, I thought it was going to be a one and done,” Balor explained. The extended storyline allowed for an in-depth exploration of both characters and their rivalry, enriching the overall narrative and providing fans with memorable moments.
Missed Opportunity and COVID-19 Impact
Balor also touched on a missed opportunity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He was originally scheduled to face Edge in April 2020 during an “NXT” TakeOver event in Dublin, Ireland. However, the event was postponed and eventually canceled due to the pandemic, preventing what could have been an intriguing encounter between the two.
Future Implications with Adam Copeland in AEW
As Edge transitions to AEW under his real name, Adam Copeland, there is renewed interest in how his career will evolve in this new chapter. Fans and fellow wrestlers, including Balor, are keen to see how Copeland’s presence in AEW will impact the wrestling world.
Stephen’s Insight
Finn Balor’s reflections on his time working with Edge reveal both a deep respect for his colleague and a sense of unexpected fulfillment from their extended storyline. The missed opportunity in 2020 highlights how external factors like the pandemic can alter career trajectories and match-ups. As Edge transitions to AEW, the wrestling community, including Balor, will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how his career unfolds in a new environment, continuing to impact the industry in significant ways.
