WWE Backlash 2026: Roman Reigns retains World Heavyweight Championship against Jacob Fatu in Tampa
Roman Reigns makes his first defence of the World Heavyweight Championship at Backlash, while Trick Williams holds onto the United States title and other key bouts take place at the Benchmark International Arena.
WWE has concluded its Backlash premium live event at the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, with the main event seeing Roman Reigns successfully defend his World Heavyweight Championship against his cousin, Jacob Fatu. This contest marked the champion's first defence of the belt, which he acquired following his victory over CM Punk at the previous flagship event, WrestleMania 42.
The match was the culmination of a narrative arc in which Jacob Fatu, having recently defeated Drew McIntyre, sought to claim the title and everything associated with it. Despite the familial connection between the two competitors, the outcome saw Reigns retain the championship, maintaining his status as the world champion in the eyes of the promotion.
Beyond the main event, the card featured a United States Championship rematch between Trick Williams and Sami Zayn. Williams successfully retained the Men's United States Championship, continuing a feud that originated from a previous encounter where Williams' mascot was torn to shreds during a match. This bout served as a direct resolution to the animosity stemming from that incident.
Other significant action included a singles bout between Seth Rollins and Bron Breakker. The rivalry between the two wrestlers has intensified following an incident where Breakker interfered in Rollins' match with Gunther, adding further context to their confrontation on the night. Additionally, Iyo Sky took on Asuka in a singles match, challenging her former faction member in a bout that highlighted ongoing tensions within the roster.
The card also featured a tag team match where The Miz and Kit Wilson competed against Danhausen and a mystery opponent. This contest involved months of backstage disrespect and a recent beatdown administered by Miz and Wilson against their future tag team partners. However, the specific identity of Danhausen's partner remains unconfirmed, with official announcements previously listing the slot as TBD.
The event took place on Saturday, 9 May, with the promotion utilising the Benchmark International Arena to host the proceedings. Viewers were able to follow the live results and analysis of the night's action, which covered the full breadth of the match card from the world title defence to the various subsidiary contests.
