Finn Bálor believes the backstage culture in WWE has changed dramatically over the past several years, particularly compared to some of the industry’s rougher eras.
Speaking with Nina Drama during a recent trip to Ireland for Zuffa Boxing 10, Bálor pointed to the film “The Wrestler” as an example of how far things have come.
“Another wrestling movie is The Wrestler, which is very serious and kind of dark, but frighteningly real. Frighteningly real. Thankfully, that’s kind of based on a time probably about 15, 20 years ago. Thankfully, WWE has changed over the recent years, and it’s a much better place and safer work environment for the boys, so we’re very grateful for that.”
This isn’t exactly a new stance for Bálor. Back in 2022, shortly after Triple H took over greater control of WWE’s creative direction, the Irishman noted that backstage communication had become much more straightforward, allowing talent to spend less time worrying about creative changes and more time focused on execution.
Years earlier, however, Bálor painted a very different picture. In a 2020 interview, he revealed that he had worked 172 matches in a single year on top of roughly 50 additional travel days, saying he was practically never home during that stretch.
WWE’s touring schedule has shifted as well. The company significantly cut back on live events in recent years, though it has begun adding dates back to the calendar in 2026.