WWE Backlash is set to take place on Saturday at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri, and wrestling fans are eagerly anticipating a night filled with electrifying matches. Traditionally held after WrestleMania, this year’s event will be headlined by none other than John Cena, who is making the first defense of his undisputed WWE championship after claiming the title from Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41. Cena will face his long-time rival Randy Orton in a match that promises to reignite their storied rivalry from the late 2000s.
In this highly anticipated main event, Cena aims to hold onto his championship title amidst rumors of his impending retirement from professional wrestling later this year. Cena has boldly declared that he intends to retire as the last real champion in WWE history. On the other hand, Orton is determined to cut short Cena's farewell tour, setting the stage for an unforgettable clash. The match not only showcases their history but also raises questions about the outcome—will Cena retain, or is Orton poised for an upset?
The WWE Backlash card is packed with thrilling title matches that are sure to captivate fans. One of the marquee bouts features a fatal four-way match for the United States Championship. Champion Jacob Fatu, who won the title at WrestleMania 41, will defend against formidable challengers Drew McIntyre, L.A. Knight, and Damian Priest. This match is particularly intriguing as it continues the ongoing blood feud between McIntyre and Priest, while Fatu looks to solidify his status as a rising star in WWE.
Another title defense will see Lyra Valkyria, the women's intercontinental champion, put her gold on the line against her former friend turned rival, Becky Lynch. Their rivalry intensified after Lynch turned on Valkyria following a tag team loss to Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. Expect high stakes, emotional tension, and a fierce contest as these two women clash for championship glory.
In an intriguing matchup, new intercontinental champion Dominik Mysterio will defend his title against Penta. The two stars have had limited interactions leading up to this match, adding an air of mystery. Mysterio's allies in Judgement Day may factor into the outcome, especially given the brewing tensions within the group.
Perhaps one of the most unusual bookings for WWE Backlash features former world heavyweight champion Gunther taking on sports personality and former NFL punter Pat McAfee. Despite McAfee's comedic appearances in past events, this will be his first singles match since WrestleMania 39. The stakes are high as McAfee aims to defend the honor of himself and play-by-play commentator Michael Cole, following Gunther's brutal attack on them after WrestleMania.
With such an action-packed lineup, wrestling analysts have begun making predictions for the outcomes of these matches. For the main event, experts believe that John Cena will retain his title against Randy Orton, given Cena's recent victory at WrestleMania and the lack of dramatic tension surrounding a title change so quickly. In the women's intercontinental championship match, many expect Becky Lynch to emerge victorious, which would significantly elevate the title’s prestige.
As for the United States Championship, predictions favor Jacob Fatu retaining his title, as he is seen as a cornerstone of the promotion for years to come. Lastly, in the matchup between Gunther and Pat McAfee, experts agree that Gunther needs a decisive win to maintain his strong standing in WWE following his recent loss.
WWE Backlash promises to deliver an unforgettable night filled with dramatic storylines, intense rivalries, and championship bouts that could change the landscape of WWE. Fans won't want to miss this thrilling event!
