In a thrilling conclusion to one of the most storied rivalries in professional wrestling, John Cena emerged victorious against Randy Orton at WWE Backlash on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The match, which marked a potential end to their 20-year feud, showcased the intense rivalry that has captivated fans for over two decades.
Cena, defending his record-setting 17th world title, faced off against Orton in front of a raucous crowd in St. Louis. The atmosphere was electric as both superstars, now in their mid-to-late 40s, engaged in a slow but methodical battle that harkened back to their earlier encounters. With the audience firmly behind Orton, the match unfolded with a mix of nostalgia and fierce competition.
The action began with Cena extending a hand in a show of goodwill, a gesture that Orton accepted. However, true to their history, the handshake quickly devolved into a series of brutal exchanges. Orton, known as "The Legend Killer," utilized his signature moves, including the RKO and the Punt Kick, while Cena countered with his iconic Attitude Adjustment. The match was filled with near falls and dramatic moments, reflecting the high stakes involved.
As the match progressed, the chaos escalated. Cena and Orton fought outside the ring, with Orton sending Cena crashing through a table. Despite Orton's dominance, he struggled to secure a definitive pinfall, showcasing the resilience that both wrestlers are known for. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as the two legends exchanged blows, each trying to outmaneuver the other.
The turning point came when R-Truth, a longtime friend of Cena, made a surprise appearance, storming the ring to intervene. As R-Truth distracted Orton, Cena seized the opportunity to deliver a low blow, followed by a devastating strike with the WWE Universal Championship title. The referee, who had been knocked down earlier in the match, slowly counted to three, sealing Cena's victory.
After the match, Cena took a moment to address the St. Louis crowd. With the championship belt held high, he encouraged the audience to "drink in the sight of what the last real champion looks like." The moment was a fitting tribute to his legacy and the storied history shared with Orton.
Earlier in the night, the event kicked off with an explosive fatal four-way match for the United States Championship. Jacob Fatu defended his title against LA Knight, Drew McIntyre, and Damian Priest in a contest that will be remembered for its high-flying action and unexpected twists. Fatu's athleticism shone through as he executed a series of incredible moves, including a swanton bomb and a moonsault, to retain his title.
The match was marked by strategic alliances and fierce rivalries, with Knight and Priest briefly teaming up to take down Fatu. However, the arrival of Solo Sikoa and the debuting Jeff Cobb added another layer of intrigue, as Cobb's intervention ultimately helped Fatu secure the victory.
In another notable match, Lyra Valkyria defended her women's intercontinental title against Becky Lynch. The match was a showcase of skill and intensity, with both women delivering powerful strikes and impressive counters. Valkyria's resilience paid off as she stunned Lynch with a roll-up pin, retaining her championship amidst a heated confrontation post-match.
Dominik Mysterio also retained his intercontinental title in a match against Penta, which featured interference from El Grande Americano. The match was characterized by Mysterio's cunning tactics and Penta's luchador style, culminating in a controversial finish that left fans buzzing.
Gunther faced off against Pat McAfee in a bout that, while technically sound, failed to capture the audience's excitement. Gunther's dominance was evident as he controlled the match, ultimately putting McAfee to sleep with a rear-naked choke.
As WWE Backlash concluded, the event not only highlighted the enduring legacy of Cena and Orton but also set the stage for future storylines and rivalries within the WWE universe. Fans left the arena buzzing with excitement, eager to see what comes next in the ever-evolving world of professional wrestling.
With each match delivering its own unique blend of drama and athleticism, WWE Backlash 2025 will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in the careers of these wrestling icons.
