Plans for Edge to Wrestle WWE’s Cutting-Edge Superstar Canceled: A Missed Opportunity?

Scrapped plans for Edge to wrestle ‘state of the art’ star

Background and Highlights

Edge and Finn Balor’s bitter rivalry culminated in a brutal Hell in a Cell match at WWE WrestleMania 39, finally putting an end to their feud. However, an intriguing revelation has emerged regarding the original plans for Edge and Balor to feud at an NXT UK event in Ireland in 2020. Unfortunately, these plans were scrapped due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the cancellation, Edge and Balor eventually faced off, with Balor emerging victorious at the ‘Extreme Rules’ premium live event in October 2022. Edge, a WWE Hall of Famer, got his revenge by defeating “The Demon” at WrestleMania this year.

Missed Opportunity

In a recent interview, Finn Balor disclosed that the WWE had intended for him and Edge to have a long-standing rivalry well before it actually materialized. The original plan was for Balor and Edge to clash at a planned “NXT: Takeover Dublin” event around the time of Edge‘s return. However, due to the cancellation of NXT: Takeover Dublin in 2020, the match never came to fruition. Balor expressed disappointment about the missed opportunity, emphasizing the potential for an epic showdown between the two superstars.

The Impact of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic had far-reaching consequences for the world of professional wrestling, forcing the WWE to make drastic changes in the way they ran their shows. NXT: Takeover Dublin was just one event that fell victim to the pandemic’s disruption, with its scheduled dates pushed back multiple times before ultimately being canceled entirely. The WWE had to adjust its plans and adapt to the challenges posed by the global health crisis.

Hopes for Future Live Events

The idea of bringing a Premium Live Event (PLE) to the UK and Ireland has gained renewed attention following John Cena’s surprise appearance at the ‘Money in the Bank’ event in London. Cena’s call for WrestleMania to be held in the UK brought the topic to the fore, prompting a humorous response from Triple H during a post-event press conference. Finn Balor, too, expressed hope for the resumption of plans to bring a PLE to Ireland, particularly given the success of recent events in other international locations.

Editorial and Analysis

The scrapped plans for Edge and Finn Balor to feud at NXT: Takeover Dublin underscore the impact of unforeseen circumstances on wrestling storylines and events. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant disruptions across various industries, and professional wrestling is no exception.

The potential match between Edge and Balor had the makings of a stellar encounter. Both superstars possess incredible in-ring skills and a unique charisma that captivates audiences. The chemistry between these two performers could have resulted in a wrestling masterpiece, providing fans with a memorable showdown.

The cancellation of NXT: Takeover Dublin and the subsequent changes to WWE programming illustrate the need for adaptability in the face of unforeseen challenges. The pandemic forced the organization to rethink its plans and develop alternative strategies to engage and entertain fans. While the missed opportunity of Edge versus Balor is regrettable, it is a stark reminder of the difficulties posed by the global health crisis.

Advice for the Future

As the world gradually emerges from the grip of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is hope for the resumption of live events and the realization of planned feuds and storylines. The WWE should prioritize safety and contingency plans to minimize the potential for cancellations or disruptions. Flexibility is key in navigating unforeseen circumstances, ensuring that fans can continue to enjoy the excitement and drama of professional wrestling.

Additionally, the WWE and other wrestling promotions should explore opportunities to showcase international talent and hold events in various locations. The enthusiasm and energy of fans in different regions can create a unique atmosphere and elevate the overall experience for both the performers and the audience.

In conclusion, while the scrapped plans for Edge and Finn Balor to feud at NXT: Takeover Dublin are undoubtedly disappointing, they serve as a reminder of the challenges faced by the wrestling industry during the COVID-19 pandemic. Moving forward, adaptability, safety, and a commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment will be crucial to the success of future wrestling events and storylines.