WWE Prepares for Backlash 2026: Key Matches Announced

WWE Gears Up for Backlash 2026

After the conclusion of Wrestlemania 42, WWE is now setting its sights on Backlash 2026, marking the first premium live event following Wrestlemania. The latest Wrestlemania received a mix of feedback, with Roman Reigns emerging victorious and retaining the World Heavyweight Championship against CM Punk in the main event. Reigns has committed to a full-time contract with WWE, ensuring his presence on television until SummerSlam.

WWE has already confirmed three matches for Backlash, scheduled to take place in Tampa on May 9. Notably, Roman Reigns, who is prominently featured on the event's promotional material, will defend his title against Jacob Fatu. Fatu, a former United States Champion, made his intentions clear by interrupting Reigns during a segment on Raw after Wrestlemania and subsequently challenging him to a title match. This week on Raw, Fatu escalated the situation by attacking Reigns.

This matchup will mark the first time Reigns and Fatu face off in a one-on-one encounter. Many anticipate that Reigns will successfully defend his title and may even urge Fatu to acknowledge him and join the Bloodline.

Additional Matches Confirmed for Backlash

WWE has also finalized two matches for Backlash that were not held at Wrestlemania 42. Seth Rollins is set to take on Bron Breakker, while IYO Sky will compete against Asuka. The rivalry between Rollins and Breakker intensified when Breakker turned on Rollins during Raw following Crown Jewel in Australia.

Due to Rollins' injury during his match against Cody Rhodes, WWE had to postpone the anticipated showdown between Rollins and Breakker at Wrestlemania. Although Breakker was cleared to compete, WWE opted to delay their match, leading Rollins to face Gunther instead. Now that Breakker is fit, he is ready to challenge the former World Heavyweight Champion. Previously, Rollins defended the world title against Breakker in NXT.

It remains to be seen how WWE will proceed with these two superstars after Backlash, especially since the breakup of their group, The Vision, seemed unwarranted. There is potential for WWE to reunite The Vision, which had significant promise before Rollins' injury disrupted their plans.

As revealed by Paul Heyman, Rollins was originally slated to face Reigns at Wrestlemania 42, while Breakker was to compete against CM Punk. Punk ultimately claimed the World Heavyweight Championship after Rollins had to relinquish it. Despite a lack of extensive storyline buildup, Gunther and Rollins delivered what many consider the best match of Wrestlemania 42.

WWE had initially decided against featuring IYO and Asuka at Wrestlemania 42, despite their ongoing storyline. Their upcoming match will proceed without Kairi Sane, who was recently released from WWE. Fans can expect WWE to announce at least two more matches for the Backlash card, although Cody Rhodes is likely to miss the event and may face Punk at SummerSlam.