CM Punk Accepts WWE World Heavyweight Title Challenge

The first major main event for WWE Raw’s upcoming trip to Northern Ireland has been set, and it involves the biggest prize on the brand.

During today’s episode of Raw from Düsseldorf, Germany, World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk made his way to the ring to address his hard-fought victory over Bron Breakker last week in Brooklyn. Punk, still showing the effects of the brutal season premiere, was in the midst of firing up the crowd when he was interrupted by former Universal Champion Finn Balor.

Balor wasted no time in stating his intentions, stepping up to the champion and demanding a shot at the World Heavyweight Title. While Punk was “fired up” and ready to defend the gold right then and there in Germany, Balor had a different plan in mind. The Judgment Day member (or former member, depending on current affiliation status) declared that he wanted the match on “his terms, on his turf.”

Balor officially laid down the challenge for next week’s episode of Raw, which is set to emanate from the SSE Arena in Belfast. Punk didn’t hesitate, immediately accepting the match for the January 19 show. However, the “Second City Saint” couldn’t resist a parting shot, apologizing in advance to the Irish faithful for what he plans to do to their hero.

“I’m sorry to the Ireland faithful for having to put their countryman to sleep next week,” Punk quipped before staring Balor down.

This marks the first time Raw will be broadcast from Belfast, and WWE is clearly loading the card for the historic occasion. Punk vs. Balor offers a high-profile main event that plays heavily into the local atmosphere, with Balor sure to receive a hero’s welcome despite his villainous tendencies.

WWE Raw Lineup (Jan 19 – Belfast):

World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (c) vs. Finn Balor

More matches to be announced.