Frustration boils over following exclusion from marquee match
Summary
– Finn Balor was left out of the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble match
– Balor publicly criticized WWE and Adam Pearce after the event
– The situation may spark a new storyline heading toward WrestleMania
The 2026 Royal Rumble featured major moments and surprise appearances, but Finn Balor was noticeably absent from the Men’s Royal Rumble match.
Balor’s exclusion did not come without warning. Weeks earlier on RAW, he confronted General Manager Adam Pearce about his status and was informed directly that he would not be included in the Rumble lineup.
After the event concluded, Balor took his frustration to social media. He posted a series of messages expressing displeasure with how he has been treated, suggesting a lack of respect within WWE.
One post hinted at ongoing issues, while another directly targeted Pearce by sharing his photo and calling him out by name. Balor followed that up with a message indicating that obstacles would not stop him from finding a path forward.
The public reaction added fuel to an already tense situation between Balor and Pearce. While Pearce now serves in an authority role, his background as a former world champion has not gone unnoticed.
With WrestleMania season underway, Balor’s outburst could signal the start of a new direction or confrontation. The fallout from the Royal Rumble snub may shape his next move as the road continues.
I starting to realize I don’t get enough respect around here…
— Finn Bálor (@FinnBalor) January 31, 2026
… primarily from this man, @ScrapDaddyAP 🤡 pic.twitter.com/9pVGVfC3Ss
— Finn Bálor (@FinnBalor) January 31, 2026
But things aren’t always straight forward … I’ll find a way.
— Finn Bálor (@FinnBalor) January 31, 2026
