Finn Balor Vs Roman Reigns: Extreme Rules 2021 Showdown

Hey guys, let's dive into one of the most talked-about matches in recent WWE history: Finn Balor versus Roman Reigns at Extreme Rules 2021. This clash wasn't just another title defense; it was a battle of wills, a struggle between the underdog and the dominant champion, and a night filled with unexpected twists. So, buckle up as we dissect every thrilling moment of this epic showdown. This match had a lot of hype surrounding it due to the buildup of Finn Balor's alter ego "The Demon" and how it would affect the match. The match definitely delivered and had some surprises in store for everyone who tuned in that night. It was a collision of two different characters with two different motivations clashing for the top prize on SmackDown. This match was a must-see event for any wrestling fan. So without further ado, let's dive right in and re-live this amazing spectacle.

The Stage Is Set: Extreme Rules 2021

Extreme Rules, as the name suggests, is WWE's annual pay-per-view dedicated to hardcore wrestling. Known for its no disqualification stipulation in many matches, it’s a night where superstars push their limits, and the rules are bent, broken, and often ignored. In 2021, the event took place on September 26 at the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio. The card was stacked with high-profile matches, but the Universal Championship match between Roman Reigns and Finn Balor was undoubtedly the main attraction. The anticipation was palpable, and the wrestling world was buzzing with excitement.

Building the Feud

The rivalry between Reigns and Balor wasn't built overnight. It was a slow-burning fuse that ignited into an explosive confrontation. Roman Reigns, the Head of the Table, had been on an unprecedented run as the Universal Champion. His dominance was unquestionable, and he had defeated a string of top contenders. Finn Balor, on the other hand, returned to the main roster with a renewed sense of purpose. He quickly set his sights on Reigns' title, positioning himself as the next credible threat. The narrative was classic: the unstoppable force versus the resilient challenger.

The weeks leading up to Extreme Rules saw both superstars engaging in intense verbal battles and physical altercations. Balor, in particular, teased the return of his Demon persona, a darker, more aggressive version of himself that had been undefeated on the main roster. This added an extra layer of intrigue to the match. Would The Demon finally be the one to dethrone Roman Reigns? The question lingered in the air, fueling the anticipation.

The Match: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

From the moment the bell rang, the match was a high-octane affair. Both Reigns and Balor came out swinging, each trying to establish dominance early on. Reigns used his size and strength to his advantage, delivering powerful blows and dominating the grappling exchanges. Balor, known for his agility and striking ability, relied on his speed and precision to counter Reigns' attacks. The match quickly spilled outside the ring, and the Extreme Rules stipulation came into play.

Early Dominance and Tactical Shifts

Reigns initially controlled the pace, using his power to wear down Balor. He delivered signature moves like the Superman Punch and the Spear, each one carrying the weight of his championship reign. However, Balor refused to stay down. He absorbed the punishment and kept fighting back, showcasing his resilience and determination. As the match progressed, Balor started to gain momentum. He used his quickness to evade Reigns' attacks and began to target the champion's legs, attempting to ground the powerhouse.

The tactical shift was evident as Balor transitioned from defensive maneuvers to calculated strikes. He unleashed a series of kicks and knees, weakening Reigns and creating openings for his own offense. The crowd was on its feet, chanting Balor's name and urging him to push forward. The energy in the arena was electric, a testament to the captivating narrative unfolding in the ring.

The Demon Awakens

As the match reached its climax, the lights dimmed, and the arena was enveloped in an eerie red glow. The Demon had arrived. Finn Balor transformed into his alter ego, his body painted with demonic symbols, his eyes burning with intensity. The transformation was complete, and the crowd erupted in a frenzy. The Demon was a different beast altogether, a force of nature unleashed on Roman Reigns.

The Demon immediately took control of the match, unleashing a flurry of attacks that Reigns couldn't answer. He hit his signature moves with devastating precision, leaving Reigns reeling. The end seemed near as The Demon prepared to deliver the Coup de Grace, his finishing move. The crowd was on the edge of their seats, ready to witness the crowning of a new champion.

The Controversial Finish

But then, disaster struck—or perhaps, divine intervention. As The Demon ascended the top rope, the lights flickered, and strange occurrences unfolded. The Demon lost his balance and stumbled, giving Reigns the opportunity to capitalize. Reigns quickly recovered and delivered a final Spear, pinning The Demon and retaining his Universal Championship. The crowd was stunned. The finish was abrupt, controversial, and left many questions unanswered.

The Aftermath and Fan Reactions

The ending of the match was met with mixed reactions. Some fans were disappointed with the anticlimactic finish, feeling that it undermined The Demon's aura of invincibility. Others speculated about the possible reasons behind the strange occurrences, wondering if it was a deliberate plot twist or a technical glitch. Regardless, the match sparked a heated debate among wrestling fans, with everyone weighing in on what they had just witnessed. Some theorized it was the Usos, or maybe even Paul Heyman, who were somehow involved in the strange ending. Whatever it was, the ending was definitely not what anyone was expecting. Some people were wondering if it was a botch, but I think it was meant to play out that way.

The controversy surrounding the finish overshadowed what was otherwise a fantastic match. Reigns and Balor had put on a memorable performance, showcasing their athleticism, storytelling ability, and undeniable chemistry. The match had everything: drama, suspense, and high-impact action. However, the ending left a sour taste in many fans' mouths, leaving them wanting more.

What Could Have Been

In hindsight, many fans and critics have pondered what could have been if the match had a different ending. Would The Demon have finally conquered Roman Reigns? Would Balor have ushered in a new era as the Universal Champion? These questions remain unanswered, but they fuel the ongoing discussion about the match and its significance in WWE history.

Some believe that a clean victory for Balor would have been a refreshing change of pace, injecting new life into the Universal Championship picture. Others argue that Reigns' dominance was too valuable to disrupt, and that a loss would have diminished his aura of invincibility. Regardless of one's opinion, it's clear that the match had the potential to be a defining moment for both superstars.

Final Thoughts: A Match to Remember

Despite the controversial finish, the Finn Balor versus Roman Reigns match at Extreme Rules 2021 will be remembered as a significant chapter in WWE history. It was a clash of two top-tier talents, a battle of contrasting styles, and a night filled with unexpected twists. The match showcased the best of what professional wrestling has to offer: compelling storytelling, high-octane action, and unforgettable moments.

Whether you loved it or hated it, the match sparked a conversation and generated buzz, proving its impact on the wrestling world. It was a reminder that in professional wrestling, anything can happen, and the unexpected is often the most memorable. So, let's keep the conversation going, guys. What were your thoughts on the match? And what do you think the future holds for both Roman Reigns and Finn Balor? Let's discuss!