Finn Balor Shifts from Raw to SmackDown to End Judgment Day Feud

On the June 1 episode of WWE Raw, Finn Balor’s transfer to the SmackDown brand was officially announced. The move was not part of a draft; WWE creative used it to separate Balor from his former Judgment Day allies Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh.

Dave Meltzer explained on Wrestling Observer Radio that the decision was meant to give Balor a fresh start after his Raw feud concluded: “They just figured they’re done with that, they’re done with Finn Balor doing that, and they wanted to give him a fresh start.” The shift opens up a wide range of new rivalries, and Balor later posted on social media asking fans “Friend or foe?” while naming potential SmackDown opponents such as Shinsuke Nakamura, Sami Zayn, Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley, Gunther, Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes.

Balor also remains in the King of the Ring tournament, with his next match slated for SmackDown and the finals planned for Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia on June 27, which will secure a SummerSlam title opportunity for the tournament winner.