WWE Royal Rumble 2018: Ten Best Moments From Men’s Rumble Match
By Tom Thomas
Photo Source: WWE.com
4. Finn Balor playing the Iron Man this year
Despite entering at number two in the Royal Rumble match this year, Finn Balor was there till the very end. He was one among the final four, before being eliminated by John Cena of all people. It seemed imperative that Balor’s WrestleMania plans did not involve the Universal title or a date with the Beast Incarnate, Brock Lesnar.
As such, I was more than satisfied to see him play the iron-man, lasting for so long. Balor’s performance was gutsy and valiant and to the WWE Universe, it was proof that he did not need face paint or his alter ego to do something relevant, apart from defeating Bray Wyatt. Balor could potentially move on to a program with the Miz in time for WrestleMania. I would love to see him as the IC Champion.
Of course, I would love it even more if he was the Universal champion. But seeing as how that spot is reserved for Roman Reigns (most certainly) at WrestleMania, the IC title doesn’t sound that bad. Some fans might be upset that Balor didn’t win the rumble or even make it to the final two and battle Nakamura. But in retrospect, his performance will define his aura and legacy for many more years to come.
Nakamura’s win wouldn’t have come across as hard-fought and satisfying had he eliminated Balor to win the whole thing. Winning it by eliminating Reigns? The crowd will go nuts, even if your name is Randy Orton.