WWE Backlash 2026: Roman Reigns retains title without interference as young stars rise
Bron Breakker and Trick Williams secured key victories, while Iyo Sky defeated Asuka in a contest that hinted at a changing dynamic between the two wrestlers
WWE Backlash 2026 took place on Saturday, 9 May, at the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida, delivering a card defined by rising talent and the intensifying feud between Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu. The main event saw Reigns retain the World Heavyweight Championship against Fatu, though the champion suffered significant damage during the bout. Notably, Reigns did not receive interference from the Usos or other allies during the defence, a marked departure from his previous reign and a development that has escalated the conflict between the cousins to a boiling point.
On the undercard, Bron Breakker defeated Seth Rollins in a high-profile singles match that served as a pivotal moment for his storyline. The victory allowed Breakker to remove Rollins from The Vision and address the interference that occurred at WrestleMania 42. While Breakker displayed physical dominance throughout the contest, the feud is expected to continue as Rollins seeks to resolve the animosity with manager Paul Heyman and The Vision.
In the United States Championship bout, Trick Williams successfully defended the title against Sami Zayn. The match incorporated a storyline subplot involving a Gingerbread Man, with Williams delivering a poignant tribute to the character prior to the contest. This victory marked Williams' second straight win over Zayn, resolving a rivalry that stemmed from a previous incident involving Williams' mascot being torn to shreds.
The women's division saw Iyo Sky emerge victorious over Asuka in a match that showcased both competitors at their best. Sky notably blocked Asuka's mist attack using WWE announcer Wade Barrett's laptop. Following the contest, the two wrestlers shared an embrace, with Asuka acknowledging Sky's performance and suggesting a potential shift in their dynamic after months of tension caused by Sky's alliance with Rhea Ripley.
In tag team action, The Miz and Kit Wilson lost to Danhausen and his mystery partner, a group of mini-Hausens. The crowd reinforced the ongoing narrative of The Miz's misfortune with chants of "You Are Cursed!" throughout the match. The result further frustrates The Miz, while Danhausen continues to demonstrate strong rapport with the live audience in Tampa.
The event concluded with the understanding that the feud between Roman Reigns and Jacob Fatu is far from over. Both competitors appeared furious with one another following the bout, with Reigns resorting to deceptive tactics to escape the Tongan Death Grip after appearing to fade under the relentless attack. A rematch is expected to be on the horizon as the issues between the family members intensify.
