Backlash 2025 Review
WWE’s Premium Live Events after WrestleMania often lose steam, but this year, Backlash 2025 delivered big. The match card was stacked, and the storytelling was on point.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Backlash emanated from St. Louis, Missouri, with the tagline “One Last Time.” This event marked John Cena’s first Backlash appearance since 2009, adding major nostalgia to the night.
U.S. Title Fatal 4-Way Match
Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Drew McIntyre vs. LA Knight vs. Damian Priest
The night kicked off hot with a chaotic and hard-hitting Fatal 4-Way for the United States Championship. Newly crowned champ Jacob Fatu put the title on the line against Drew McIntyre, LA Knight, and Damian Priest.
Fatu hit a Swanton Bomb on McIntyre. Knight nailed Fatu with the BFT, only for Priest to follow up with South of Heaven on Knight. McIntyre struck back with a Claymore out of nowhere on Priest, leading to a brawl between Priest and McIntyre that spilled into the crowd. The two crashed through a double table spot, with Priest standing tall after another South of Heaven.
Back in the ring, Knight nearly put Fatu through the announce table until Solo Sikoa appeared to help Fatu. As Knight went after Solo, Jeff Cobb debuted, leveling Knight with a lariat. Fatu took advantage, landing a moonsault for the win.
A brilliant opener with chaos, surprises, and strong storytelling — the perfect momentum builder.
Women’s Intercontinental Title
Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch
This match was a back-and-forth technical contest. Lyra proved herself as a future top star, showcasing composure and crisp counters. Lynch landed the Manhandle Slam for a near fall, but Lyra rolled her up after a slick counter for the win.
Post-match, Lynch snapped, attacking Lyra with punches and locking in the Dis-Arm-Her. A solid match, but Becky showed a bit of rust — hopefully the rematch sharpens things up and furthers their budding rivalry.
Intercontinental Title Match
Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Penta El Zero Miedo
This was another standout bout. Dominik is growing into his role and slowly winning over fans. Penta was electric, and the match was loaded with high-impact spots.
Judgment Day tried interfering but were ejected. However, El Grande Americano snuck in during a ref distraction, hitting Penta with a metal-plated headbutt. Dominik capitalized, hitting the Frog Splash for the win.
A fun, dirty finish that keeps Dom’s heat high and raises questions about the Judgment Day’s future.
Gunther vs. Pat McAfee
This was a hard-hitting slugfest. As expected, Gunther brutalized McAfee, but Pat showed heart and sold the beating like a pro. Gunther’s chops were so stiff they left visible welts and even gave McAfee a bloodshot eye.
The match ended with Gunther locking in his sleeper hold, causing McAfee to pass out. Michael Cole’s commentary, fully backing McAfee, added emotional weight. Gunther was dominant again — and now heads into a World Title Match on RAW, June 9th.
Main Event: “One Last Time”
John Cena vs. Randy Orton
We’ve seen it before, but this may have been the final chapter in one of WWE’s greatest rivalries — and it delivered.
Orton hit multiple RKOs, an AA, and put Cena through two tables. Cena responded with four AAs and even attempted to cheat. With both referees down, chaos broke out — including RKOs to agents and even SmackDown GM Nick Aldis.
Just as Orton lined up for a punt, R-Truth ran in to protect Cena. Orton gave him an RKO, but Cena low-blowed Orton, hit him with the title belt, and got the pinfall victory.
An insane finish, and an unexpected twist with R-Truth’s involvement. Classic WWE drama.
Final Thoughts
Backlash 2025 was a fantastic kickoff to WWE’s post-Mania season. Every match felt like it mattered, and the show felt unpredictable in the best way.
Looking ahead to Saturday Night’s Main Event on May 24th:
Jey Uso vs. Logan Paul for the World Heavyweight Championship
Seth Rollins & Bron Breakker vs. CM Punk & Sami Zayn
WWE is hitting its stride — and for the first time in a while, it feels like must-watch TV again
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