Finn Bálor Streak Comes to an End Ahead of CM Punk Title Match

Finn Bálor just ended one of the roughest streaks of his WWE career — and he did it at the perfect time.

Bálor picked up his first win in 166 days Saturday night at WWE’s Road to WrestleMania live event in Lubbock, Texas, defeating Je’Von Evans at United Supermarkets Arena. Yeah, it’s been that long.

The former Universal Champion hadn’t had his hand raised since September 1, 2025, when he beat Dragon Lee on Raw. After that? An 0-7 televised skid that had fans wondering what was going on with the Prince. But in Lubbock, that drought officially ended.

During the match, Evans showed off his high-risk offense, but Bálor slowed things down, controlled the pace, and eventually locked in the win after a hard-fought back-and-forth battle. Then came the classy moment.

After the bell, Bálor helped Evans to his feet and raised his arm, giving the young star a stamp of approval in front of the Texas crowd.

Now here’s why this matters. Bálor is set to challenge CM Punk for the World Heavyweight Championship at WWE Elimination Chamber 2026 on February 28 in Chicago. He earned that shot after a tense showdown with Punk on Raw in Belfast — a match that ended with Punk raising Bálor’s arm in respect.

So after five-plus months without a win, Bálor heads into Chicago with momentum instead of doubt. Coincidence? Maybe. Perfect timing? Absolutely.

Do you think Finn Bálor can turn this win into a championship moment against CM Punk, or is this just a brief spark before another setback? Drop your take in the comments.