CM Punk has a new challenger for his WWE World Heavyweight Championship, and the match will take place in his opponent's backyard.
During Monday's live daytime episode of WWE Raw from Dusseldorf, Germany on Netflix, Punk addressed his championship status and the road to WrestleMania. After successfully defending his title against Bron Breakker last week, Punk declared himself ready to face all challengers at upcoming premium live events.
Finn Balor interrupted the champion's promo, making it clear he wasn't waiting for Royal Rumble or Elimination Chamber. Balor challenged Punk to a match next week at The SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The match marks the first-ever televised WWE event from Northern Ireland.
Punk initially offered to fight immediately in Germany, but Balor insisted on the Belfast setting, citing "home field advantage" similar to what Punk enjoys in Chicago. Before accepting, Punk questioned whether he'd face Balor one-on-one or the entire Judgment Day faction, referencing his recent battles with The Vision. Balor assured him it would be "The Best in the World" versus "The Prince" in a straight singles match.
Punk accepted the challenge, apologizing to the Dusseldorf crowd for not competing that night, then promising to apologize to Belfast fans next week "after defeating Balor with the GTS."
The championship match is scheduled for Monday, January 19, 2026 on WWE Raw.