WWE Backlash 2026 delivered a pivotal night in Tampa that reshaped rivalries and launched new stars. While WrestleMania 42 left many fans wanting more, this pay-per-view more than made up for it. Careers were catapulted, potential endings were written, and John Cena appeared in a suit to introduce a concept reminiscent of Cyber Sunday. As Saturday Night’s Main Event approaches on May 23rd in Fort Wayne, some feuds appear settled while others are just heating up. But the most significant takeaway from the night was the emergence of Jacob Fatu, who stepped into the ring with Roman Reigns and emerged as a bonafide star.
Jacob Fatu defeated Roman Reigns in a match that stole the show. The Samoan Werewolf delivered a career-defining performance, countering Reigns’ Spear with a thundering splash from the turnbuckle to secure the pin. The crowd in Tampa erupted as Fatu stood tall, signaling a major shift in WWE’s hierarchy. This result immediately puts Fatu in the main event conversation and sets up potential future clashes with champions Jey Uso or Gunther. Fans are already buzzing about whether Fatu will challenge for a title at the upcoming Saturday Night’s Main Event.
Bron Breakker defeated Seth Rollins in a contest that lasted just over twenty minutes. Breakker went for a Spear right out of the gate, but Rollins sidestepped. The match saw interference from both Logan Paul and Austin Theory, who were taken out by their former stablemate Rollins. This rivalry appears to be only beginning, with a steel cage match potentially looming to keep outside interference at bay.
Trick Williams retained the United States Championship against Sami Zayn. The bizarre rivalry involving a Gingerbread Man has been an acquired taste, and WWE fans reportedly left the arena during the funeral segment on Friday Night SmackDown. Despite the silliness, Williams finally put the mascot to rest—literally—with help from Lil Yachty, who hit Zayn with a candy cane stick. Williams then sealed the win with the Trick Shot. Sami Zayn, in a post-match interview, described his character as a tweener, saying he just wants a reaction. WWE must decide what’s next for Zayn, especially with WrestleMania headed to Saudi Arabia next year, where he could be in a major match or even walk out as champion.
Danhausen and his mystery partner defeated The Miz and Kit Wilson. Many speculated the partner could be CM Punk, Jelly Roll, or Ricky Saints, but instead Danhausen unveiled a cloning machine that produced a “Minihausen.” All four competitors put on a fun, fast-paced affair as The Miz sold every move dramatically. Danhausen remains undefeated in WWE programming, and this entertaining match showed why he continues to get over with the crowd.
Iyo Sky defeated Asuka in a match that rocked the arena. Fans chanted “We want Kairi” as the bout began, referencing Kairi Sane’s recent release. Both women gave a standout performance, proving how much WWE may have fumbled the booking of this feud. After the match, the two shared an emotional hug, and Asuka waved goodbye to the crowd. Whether this is truly the end for Asuka in WWE, she remains one of the most under appreciated talents in the company. Iyo Sky, widely regarded as the greatest female wrestler on the planet, continues to shine.
ANOTHER WWE BELT?! John Cena teased a groundbreaking announcement earlier by tweet, and at Backlash he delivered. Instead of revealing the location for WrestleMania 44—rumored for Nashville—or details about Club WWE, Cena announced a new championship: the “John Cena Championship.” He also introduced the “John Cena Classic,” a tournament where superstars from NXT and the main roster will compete for the coveted belt. Interestingly, winning the tournament isn’t required to take the strap; the rules remain open-ended. This development adds a fresh layer of competition and excitement moving forward.
