WWE Backlash 2025: Cena vs. Orton and Match Previews
WWE Backlash is set to showcase a highly anticipated main event as John Cena defends his Undisputed WWE Championship against longtime rival Randy Orton. The event will take place in St. Louis on May 10, marking a significant moment in a rivalry that spans over two decades.
Main Event Preview
The clash between Cena and Orton will be a noteworthy chapter in their storied history, having faced each other 21 times, with Cena leading their encounters 13-7-1. Their last one-on-one match occurred eight years ago, and this may be one of their final encounters before Cena’s anticipated retirement at the end of the year. Their rivalry reignited when Orton attacked Cena with an RKO on the episode of Raw following WrestleMania 41, laying the groundwork for this showdown.
Confirmed Matches for Backlash
- Undisputed WWE Championship: John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton
- Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch
- Gunther vs. Pat McAfee
Women’s Intercontinental Championship Match
Lyra Valkyria will defend her title against Becky Lynch in what promises to be an intense bout. Their partnership crumbled after Valkyria’s dramatic decision to pull Lynch back into the ring following an 11-month hiatus. Their short-lived alliance quickly soured, culminating in an attack by Lynch on Valkyria during a recent episode of Raw.
Gunther vs. Pat McAfee
After a surprising turn of events, Gunther will face commentator Pat McAfee at Backlash. Following his loss to Jey Uso at WrestleMania, Gunther confronted WWE commentator Michael Cole with aggression, leading to McAfee stepping in to defend Cole. This escalation resulted in a challenge for their upcoming match.
Predicted Matches at Backlash
World Heavyweight Championship
The card also anticipates a clash for the World Heavyweight Championship, where Jey Uso (c) will defend against Logan Paul. Both competitors emerged victorious at WrestleMania, setting the stage for a heated confrontation after a series of altercations on recent broadcasts.
WWE Women’s Championship
In another exciting match, Tiffany Stratton (c) is expected to defend her WWE Women’s Championship against Nia Jax. Stratton previously won the title by cashing in her Money in the Bank contract against Jax, and their rivalry is set to reignite as the two former allies now find themselves at odds.
United States Championship
Additionally, Jacob Fatu will defend his United States Championship against Drew McIntyre following McIntyre’s No. 1 contender victory over LA Knight. However, complications from previous encounters with Damian Priest could add further drama to this matchup.
Tag Team Match
Iyo Sky and Rhea Ripley, the current champions, will team up against NXT stars Giulia and Roxanne Perez. This match will explore potential alliances and rivalries within the women’s division.
Event Details
WWE Backlash is set to be streamed live on Peacock starting at 7 p.m. ET, promising an evening full of thrilling matches and compelling storylines.
Conclusion
As WWE Backlash approaches, the anticipation builds not only for the main event between Cena and Orton but for all matches on the card. Fans eagerly await this night of wrestling action, eager to witness how these rivalries unfold.