As Finn Balor’s journey through WWE nears the decade mark, his tenure has been characterized by a series of remarkable triumphs and formidable challenges. Balor has consistently upheld his integrity both inside and outside the ring, refusing to engage in the controversial antics often seen in the wrestling world to garner attention and popularity.
A Principled Approach in a Controversial Industry
During a recent appearance on the “What’s the Story” podcast, Balor provided insight into his philosophy, particularly his stance on maintaining personal dignity in a profession that often rewards controversy. The hosts mentioned the self-absorbed nature of many American performers, with some veterans habitually criticizing the current generation of wrestlers. Balor offered a nuanced perspective, challenging this conventional wisdom and emphasizing his commitment to his principles.
“I’m very aware that to make money in America, in this capitalist society—actually globally—you have to say things that are controversial so people react to it,” Balor said. “I know that if I were to say controversial things, I would be more successful, I would be more popular, I would have more followers, I would have more money, I would have more fame. But I’m not willing to sacrifice my dignity and my integrity to talk s*** about people.”
Avoiding Negativity for Personal Integrity
Expanding on his stance, Balor explained why he abstains from negative commentary about others in the industry. He views such behavior as ultimately unproductive and misaligned with his personal values.
“Why would I talk s*** about people? It’s just talking about negative things… it’s not gonna benefit me personally in any way,” Balor pondered. “I’d rather just not mention them, that’s shade enough as is. When I retire, if I ever do interviews after that, I won’t be coming on and saying, ‘Haha, that lad’s s***,’ or ‘Haha, that lad can’t do this.'”
Thriving in WWE Without Compromising Integrity
Despite his refusal to engage in sensationalism, Balor continues to thrive in WWE. He remains a pivotal member of The Judgment Day faction and currently holds the tag team championships alongside JD McDonagh. Balor’s approach sets a powerful example, demonstrating that success in professional wrestling does not necessitate compromising one’s integrity.
Stephen’s Insight
Finn Balor’s commitment to maintaining his integrity in the face of an industry that often rewards controversy and sensationalism is both admirable and instructive. His refusal to engage in negative commentary highlights a broader issue within the professional wrestling world and beyond: the pressure to sacrifice personal values for the sake of fame and fortune. Balor’s success proves that it’s possible to achieve greatness without compromising one’s principles, offering a refreshing perspective in a field often dominated by scandal and negativity.
