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WWE Raw Results, February 17, 2025: Seth “Freakin” Rollins Conquers Finn Bálor to Qualify for the Elimination Chamber
The February 17, 2025, edition of WWE Monday Night Raw delivered another action-packed night that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The focus of the night was on the road to WWE Elimination Chamber 2025, and one of the most anticipated matches was the Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match between Seth “Freakin” Rollins and Finn Bálor. With both superstars vying for a coveted spot in the upcoming Elimination Chamber match, the stakes couldn’t have been higher.
This was not just another match—this was a clash between two of WWE’s best in-ring performers, both known for their athleticism, charisma, and history of high-profile encounters. Rollins, a former WWE Universal Champion and fan favorite, was looking to continue his momentum towards a potential title opportunity at Elimination Chamber. Bálor, on the other hand, a former Universal Champion, sought to prove he was still at the top of his game and worthy of another shot at glory.
As the bell rang to start the match, the intensity was palpable. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how the night unfolded.
The Build-Up to the Match
For weeks leading up to this match, both Seth Rollins and Finn Bálor had been involved in various storylines, each trying to build momentum toward Elimination Chamber. Rollins had made it clear that he was looking for an opportunity to reclaim championship gold after a series of strong performances and a recent victory over Austin Theory. Meanwhile, Bálor had been embroiled in a heated rivalry with several opponents, including Damian Priest, but this match was an opportunity for him to prove his worthiness to compete in the Elimination Chamber match.
The atmosphere in the arena was electric as fans chanted for both superstars. The crowd was divided, with Rollins’ “Freakin” fans showing immense support for their hero, while Bálor’s followers rallied behind the Irishman. Both superstars are beloved for their in-ring abilities, but there was a sense of palpable rivalry, and the excitement was clear.
The Match Begins: A Fast-Paced Start
The match began with both Rollins and Bálor circling the ring, sizing each other up. Rollins was the first to strike with a quick series of kicks and punches, using his fast-paced offense to gain the upper hand. His agility and high-flying style were on full display as he tried to keep the match in his favor. However, Bálor, a tactician in the ring, was quick to adapt, countering Rollins’ momentum with his own style of precision wrestling.
Bálor, who is known for his calculated approach to matches, took control for a period, grounding Rollins with a front facelock and hitting him with sharp knee strikes. The Irishman’s methodical offense kept Rollins from building any significant momentum, and for a while, it seemed like Bálor might be on the verge of securing the win.
Rollins Finds His Groove: A Reversal of Fortune
As the match progressed, Rollins began to find his rhythm. After being on the receiving end of some punishing moves, including a Bálor dropkick into the corner, Rollins countered with an explosive blockbuster followed by a high-flying suicide dive to the outside, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Rollins seemed to gain momentum with every move, and the energy in the arena shifted.
Bálor, clearly feeling the effects of Rollins’ fast-paced offense, took a moment to regroup on the outside, but that only allowed Rollins to recover and continue his attack. A series of superkicks and a Falcon Arrow from Rollins nearly earned him the pinfall, but Bálor, always resourceful, managed to kick out at two.
The High Stakes: A Near Fall
With both men exhausted and the tension building, the match entered its most crucial moments. Rollins, sensing that the end was near, went for one of his signature moves, the curb stomp, but Bálor cleverly avoided the attack, rolling out of the way just in time. As the crowd gasped, Bálor capitalized on the opportunity with a Pelé kick to Rollins, stunning him and setting him up for his signature Coup de Grâce.
Bálor climbed to the top rope, ready to hit the Coup de Grâce, but Rollins, showing his resilience, quickly moved out of the way at the last moment. The crowd erupted as Rollins seized the moment and hit a devastating superplex into a falcon arrow combo, a move that almost got him the pinfall. But Bálor, once again, showed his determination, kicking out just in time.
The drama of the match reached its peak when Rollins hit the Curb Stomp, but Bálor was able to stagger to the ropes to break up the pinfall. The match became a battle of attrition, with both men pushing their limits, refusing to let go of their dreams of entering the Elimination Chamber match.
The Final Moments: Rollins Clinches the Win
With both men clearly showing signs of exhaustion, the final moments of the match were a testament to their endurance and heart. Rollins, after absorbing so much punishment, found the strength to go for a second Curb Stomp, and this time, he connected. The move landed perfectly, and Rollins quickly made the cover.
The referee counted: One, two, three—and the match was over. Seth “Freakin” Rollins had defeated Finn Bálor to qualify for the Elimination Chamber match, and the crowd erupted in celebration. Rollins’ victory was hard-earned, and the Raw roster would now have to deal with the added threat of the highly skilled and charismatic former champion entering the Elimination Chamber.
Post-Match: Rollins’ Celebration and Future Plans
As Rollins celebrated his hard-fought victory in the ring, the crowd showered him with cheers. His arms were raised in victory, and it was clear that he had overcome one of his toughest challenges yet. However, as Rollins was basking in his victory, the camera zoomed in on his face, showing a determined expression. Elimination Chamber was on the horizon, and Rollins had already set his sights on the WWE Championship or the Universal Championship, depending on where he ended up.
This victory over Bálor would undoubtedly give Rollins the momentum he needed as he prepares for the dangerous Elimination Chamber match, where six superstars will compete for a chance at gold. But the celebration would be short-lived, as Rollins will undoubtedly face even more fierce competition in the coming weeks.
Conclusion: A Major Step for Rollins
Seth Rollins’ victory over Finn Bálor on Raw marked a significant step in his journey toward the Elimination Chamber match. It also solidified Rollins as a major contender for a title shot at WWE Elimination Chamber 2025. This victory was not just about qualifying for a match—it was about proving that Rollins, despite the odds, was still at the top of his game and ready to conquer whatever challenge stood in his way.
As the night came to a close, one thing was clear: Rollins had earned his place in the Elimination Chamber, and he would be one of the superstars to watch when that dangerous match goes down at the premium live event. With his trademark resilience, athleticism, and passion, Rollins’ journey is far from over—he’s now positioned to take the fight to the top of WWE.
