The 2026 edition of Crown Jewel was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 7, in light of the security issues arising from the existing conflict in the region. However, regardless of the situation, the wrestling company hosted the Premium Live Event with four matches comprising of some of their best-known wrestlers.

But soon enough, there was yet another security issue as a missile strike in Riyadh reportedly hit a building in the King Abdullah Financial District of the city on November 8. Now, a latest report has emerged stating that Gunther decided not to visit Saudi Arabia for the PLE, thereby cancelling his match against Finn Balor.

Gunther vs Finn Balor match did not take place at Crown Jewel 2026

An earlier report suggested that the officials wanted to give the rivalry more time to develop and believed the existing card was sufficient. A subsequent report from Dave Meltzer, however, offered a different explanation.

According to WON’s Dave Meltzer, Gunther decided against travelling to Riyadh for the 2026 PLE, forcing the company to abandon its plans for the match against Finn Balor.

Meltzer noted that the situation had gone back and forth, which explained why the promotion continued building towards the match on television even though the former champion’s participation remained uncertain. He also reported that Balor was not particularly enthusiastic about travelling to Saudi Arabia.

“Multiple WWE sources confirmed the story, which others internally also believed to be true. One source said that the situation went back-and-forth and thus everything on television was going in that direction. There was also talk that Balor was not thrilled to go either but the belief internally was he would have gone if Gunther would have gone.”

Meltzer also noted that, in some previous instances, performers who did not want to participate in Saudi Arabia events were reportedly expected to relinquish their championships beforehand. There had been no recent examples of WWE talent refusing to make the trip, making this reported decision notable.

The TKO-owned promotion has not publicly confirmed the report or commented on the decision from the wrestler. The company also did not officially announce the proposed match for the PLE, despite the television build-up and promotional material.

What’s next for Gunther vs Finn Balor?

The rivalry between the Ring General and Finn Balor remains unresolved, and the decision to keep them apart at the Saudi Arabia PLE leaves the creative team with an opportunity to revisit the programme. Their recent confrontations, particularly Balor’s return to his Demon persona, have provided a strong foundation for a singles match.

The upcoming Survivor Series: WarGames on November 28 could be a possible destination, although the promotion has not confirmed any plans for the match.

The company could also extend the feud through additional SmackDown appearances before booking the showdown on a future Premium Live Event. For now, fans will have to wait for the promotion to provide an update on the next chapter of the rivalry.

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