On the November 21, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown, things got real at the Ball Arena in Denver. During the “Last Time Is Now” tournament to decide John Cena’s final opponent, Penta faced off against Finn Bálor and came out on top, earning a decisive victory and advancing to the quarterfinals.
What Went Down in the Match
From the outset, Penta and Balor traded blows in a match that felt electric, full of momentum shifts. Balor tried to finish things off with his signature Coup de Grace, but Penta dodged at the last second. That opened the door for Penta to hit his Mexican Destroyer, pinning Balor for the win.
It wasn’t a walkover Balor had moments of control. But Penta’s timing, explosiveness, and ring savvy won the day.
Why This Win Matters
This isn’t just another tournament match it’s part of a much bigger storyline. The winner of this “Last Time Is Now” bracket will face John Cena in his final match. By beating Balor, Penta has moved a big step closer to that historic showdown.
Plus, this win boosts Penta’s profile. He’s not just a high-flyer anymore securing a pinfall victory against someone as established as Balor in a high-stakes match gives him serious credibility. For Cena, having an unpredictable and exciting challenger makes the farewell even more meaningful.
What’s Next for Penta
According to the updated tournament bracket, Penta is set to take on Solo Sikoa in the quarterfinals. That matchup could be a real clash of styles: Sikoa’s brute power vs. Penta’s agility and aerial offense.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Penta’s path so far:
| Round | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| First Round | Finn Bálor | Win via Mexican Destroyer pin |
| Quarterfinals | Solo Sikoa | Upcoming |
The Bigger Picture: Cena’s Final Run
This tournament is more than just a bracket it’s WWE’s way of making Cena’s final match feel earned and unpredictable. Rather than handpicking someone, they’re letting talent fight for the opportunity. That adds tension, excitement, and real stakes.
And for Penta, this is his moment to shine. If he keeps this up, he could be the one walking into the ring with Cena for one of the biggest moments of his career.
Conclusion
Penta’s win over Finn Balor on SmackDown wasn’t just a strong performance it was a statement. In a tournament that decides Cena’s final opponent, Penta is now a serious threat. As he heads into a showdown with Solo Sikoa next, the excitement only grows. If he keeps this momentum, he could very well get that dream match with the biggest name in the business.