St. Louis, Missouri — WWE Backlash is set to electrify the Enterprise Center on Saturday, featuring a lineup that promises to deliver intense rivalries and high-stakes championship bouts. Following the excitement of WrestleMania 41, the event marks a pivotal moment, especially for John Cena, who will defend the undisputed WWE Championship for the first time against longtime competitor Randy Orton.
Cena, who clinched the title from Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania, faces Orton in a showdown that reignites a decades-long rivalry. As Cena embarks on what he has termed a “retirement tour,” he aims to depart the wrestling scene later this year still holding the title, underscoring his claim as the “last real champion” in WWE history. Orton, on the other hand, is determined to halt Cena’s farewell march and regain championship glory.
The night will showcase three additional title matches, heightening the stakes. One of the most eagerly anticipated bouts features Jacob Fatu defending his United States Championship in a fatal four-way against Drew McIntyre, L.A. Knight, and Damian Priest. Fatu earned his title at WrestleMania 41, defeating Knight, while McIntyre and Priest have been embroiled in a fierce feud that promises to add layers of drama to the match.
The women’s intercontinental championship is also on the line, as Lyra Valkyria faces a former ally turned adversary, Becky Lynch. Their rivalry ignited as Lynch returned at WrestleMania, teaming up with Valkyria to secure the Raw women’s tag team titles, only to see them lost in a rematch against Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. Following the loss, Lynch’s betrayal of Valkyria set the stage for an intense showdown on Saturday.
In another notable match, the newly crowned intercontinental champion Dominik Mysterio will defend his title against Penta. Although the two have not faced off directly leading up to the match, tensions are high, particularly with Mysterio’s faction, Judgment Day, facing internal strife. Mysterio, having recently triumphed over Finn Balor to capture the title, will look to maintain his momentum despite the chaos surrounding him.
A surprising booking sees former world heavyweight champion Gunther take on sports personality Pat McAfee. Although McAfee has not participated in a singles match since WrestleMania 39, he returns to defend his and commentary partner Michael Cole’s honor after Gunther’s vicious attack on them following his match with Jey Uso. Fans are curious how McAfee will fare against an accomplished wrestler like Gunther.
As the event approaches, experts have shared predictions for the outcomes of the matches. Cena is expected to retain his title against Orton, given the momentum from WrestleMania and the narrative surrounding his retirement. However, the women’s intercontinental championship is viewed as a likely victory for Lynch, which would enhance her legacy in the division.
Fatu, seen as a crucial figure for WWE’s future, is favored to retain his title, while Mysterio is predicted to hold onto his championship, barring interference from his faction. Lastly, many agree that Gunther needs a decisive win to rebuild his momentum.
With rivalries heating up and titles at stake, WWE Backlash is not just a continuation of WrestleMania’s narrative but an opportunity for the superstars involved to solidify their legacies and set the stage for future developments in the WWE storyline. As fans gear up for the action, the anticipation continues to build for an unforgettable night in St. Louis.