WWE Backlash 2025, traditionally the first major event after WrestleMania on the WWE calendar, took place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. The card was headlined by newly crowned Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena making his first title defense against longtime rival and hometown hero Randy Orton. Aside from that main-event clash, there were four other matches on the WWE Backlash agenda, with three other championships at stake.
Fresh off their own Intercontinental and United States Championship wins at WrestleMania 41, Dominik Mysterio and Jacob Fatu put their titles on the line in semi-rematches of their bouts in Las Vegas. In addition, Becky Lynch battled inaugural Women's Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria for her belt. The lone non-title match of the night featured Gunther, the former World Heavyweight Champion, against former NFL punter turned media personality Pat McAfee.
The Undisputed WWE Championship match saw John Cena defending his title against Randy Orton. Cena, who has been a dominant force in WWE, faced Orton in what was billed as the final singles match between the two on a WWE premium live event. The anticipation was palpable, with fans eager to see if Cena could retain his championship against the hometown favorite, Orton.
Meanwhile, the United States Championship four-way match opened the show, featuring Jacob Fatu defending his title against LA Knight, Drew McIntyre, and Damian Priest. Fatu had held the championship since WrestleMania 41, where he won it from Knight. This match was particularly significant for McIntyre, who was looking to become a Grand Slam Champion by winning the U.S. title, the only championship he had yet to capture.
Jacob Fatu, who earned his championship by defeating LA Knight at WrestleMania, faced a tough challenge in this Fatal Four-Way match. The stakes were high, as each competitor brought their unique strengths to the ring. LA Knight, a two-time U.S. Champion himself, was eager to reclaim the title, while Damian Priest, known for his agility and power, was also a formidable contender. McIntyre, however, was determined to seize the moment and make his mark.
Before Backlash, tensions flared between McIntyre and Knight, leading to a heated exchange during a SmackDown episode. This friction set the stage for their showdown at Backlash, where both men aimed to prove their worth in the ring. McIntyre had previously delivered a strong message to Fatu, referring to him as ‘the baddest dog in the yard’ and vowing to check off another major milestone in his career by winning the U.S. title.
The build-up to the event was filled with drama, with Jacob Fatu's recent actions on SmackDown drawing attention. After a tag team match where Fatu and Solo Sikoa faced Knight and Priest, the post-match chaos saw McIntyre deliver a Claymore kick to Fatu, making his intentions clear. McIntyre's victory would not only elevate his status but could also lead him back into the title picture, potentially setting up a future clash with Cena.
As the night progressed, fans were treated to a thrilling atmosphere at the Enterprise Center. The energy was electric, with chants echoing throughout the arena as the matches unfolded. Each competitor showcased their skills, leaving everything in the ring as they vied for championship glory.
In the Women's Intercontinental Championship match, Becky Lynch faced off against Lyra Valkyria, who was defending her title for the first time. Lynch, a fan favorite and former champion, was determined to reclaim her spot at the top of the women's division, while Valkyria aimed to solidify her reign with a victory over the seasoned competitor.
The Intercontinental Championship saw Dominik Mysterio defending his title against Penta, another exciting matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats. Mysterio, fresh off his WrestleMania victory, was eager to prove his worth as champion against a formidable opponent in Penta, known for his high-flying style and resilience.
Lastly, the non-title match between Gunther and Pat McAfee added an interesting dynamic to the card. Gunther, a powerhouse in WWE, faced McAfee, who brought his unique charisma and energy to the ring. Fans were eager to see how the former NFL punter would fare against a seasoned wrestler like Gunther.
As the night drew to a close, the excitement of WWE Backlash 2025 left fans buzzing with anticipation for what was next. Each match told a story, with rivalries intensifying and new champions potentially emerging. The event not only showcased the incredible talent within WWE but also set the stage for future storylines and matches, leaving fans eager for more.
With the outcomes of the matches still unfolding, WWE Backlash 2025 proved to be a pivotal moment in the careers of many superstars, especially for Drew McIntyre as he sought to capture the United States Championship. The night was filled with unforgettable moments, showcasing the passion and dedication of the WWE roster.
