WWE from what is being noted considered booking a major showdown between Finn Balor and Gunther for Crown Jewel 2026 before ultimately deciding to postpone the match despite promotional materials having already been produced.
As noted by WRKD Wrestling, there was a feeling among some within WWE that the anticipated encounter between “The Demon” Finn Balor. Gunther would benefit from additional television build rather than taking place at Saturday’s premium live event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. There was moreover a belief that the four matches already scheduled were sufficient for the show.
With Balor and Gunther continuing their heated hostilities on WWE SmackDown, the potential contest had been teased throughout the weeks leading up to Crown Jewel. During the October 30 installment, Balor brought back his Demon persona. Launched a vicious attack on Gunther — delivering a Coup de Grâce from a ladder that sent his rival crashing through the announce table.
The originally planned venue for Crown Jewel, further speculation surrounding the showdown emerged when promotional materials featuring both Superstars were spotted at Riyadh Season Stadium. WWE subsequently relocated the spectacular to ANB Facility, on top of that known as “The Venue.”
Although Balor vs. Gunther was citing reports included in earlier internal plans, WWE never officially declared the match for Crown Jewel — meaning its absence was not a change to the publicly advertised card.
Saturday’s premium live spectacular ultimately featured four advertised matches, with Roman Reigns defeating Sami Zayn to capture the Men’s Crown Jewel Gold in the main event. Cody Rhodes also edged out Randy Orton in a Last Man Standing Match, while Penta and Je’Von Evans captured the World Tag Team Championship from Bron Breakker and Austin Theory.
Elsewhere, Chelsea Green triumphed over Liv Morgan to win the Women’s Crown Jewel Championship, only for Tiffany Stratton to cash in her Money in the Bank agreement shortly afterward and capture the WWE Women’s Championship.
As for Balor and Gunther, WWE’s noted decision to delay their encounter leaves additional time to develop the hostilities on television, particularly following Balor’s return to his Demon persona.
There is currently no acknowledged date for the proposed battle, although the ongoing storyline suggests that the two Superstars remain on a collision course.