RADIO
So much has changed since Wrestlemania. WWE merged with Endeavor, and the 2023 WWE Draft altered the landscape of Raw, SmackDown!, and NXT. But before the new rosters go into effect on Monday, the Superstars will battle it out in Puerto Rico at Backlash. Of course, this premium live event will have a different feel. WWE Undisputed Universal Champion Roman Reigns won’t be on the card.
However, the rest of the Bloodline, with Paul Heyman in tow, will make the trip overseas to go toe-to-toe with Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, and Matt Riddle. Cody Rhodes, unable to “finish the story” at Wrestlemania 39, has some business to settle with Brock Lesnar, while Bad Bunny will return to the squared circle to meet the Judgement Day’s, Damian Priest. Also, both women’s titles will be up for grabs; Seth “Freakin” Rollins will battle the enormous Omos, and the United States Championship will be decided in a triple-threat.
Bobby Lashley vs. Bronson Reed vs. Austin Theory (c) - WWE United States Championship
Theory has a lot of momentum on his side, as the champ is coming off the biggest win of his career, defeating John Cena at Wrestlemania 39. Reed and Lashley will punish each other throughout this match, so Theory may take advantage and pick up the win.
IYO SKY vs. Bianca Belair (c) - Raw Women's Championship
Belair has been the champion for over a year, so this should be another easy win for her. Don't be surprised if Bayley gets involved, potentially leading to a conflict with SKY and marking the beginning of the end for Damage CTRL.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins vs. Omos
With Rollins a favorite to win the World Heavyweight Championship, it would be surprising if he lost to Omos. However, Omos should remain dominant in the process, even if he doesn't pull off a win.
Zelina Vega vs. Rhea Ripley (c) - SmackDown! Women's Championship
Vega will give her hometown crowd something to cheer for. While she may put up a valiant effort, Ripley isn't in any danger of losing her belt.
Bad Bunny vs. Damian Priest (San Juan Street Fight)
Bunny always puts on a show, so this may be the most entertaining match on the card. On paper, Priest certainly has the advantage. But the LWO will likely play a significant role in helping the Grammy winner secure the win on his home turf.
Matt Riddle, Kevin Owens, and Sami Zayn vs. The Bloodline
Owens and Zayn appear to be on the same page. However, it's a different story for their opponents. Don't be surprised if the Bloodline continues to implode, with a conflict between Solo Sikoa and his brothers resulting in a victory for Riddle and the Tag Team Champions.
Cody Rhodes vs. Brock Lesnar
Rhodes failed to beat Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania. But when the 2023 Royal Rumble winner thought things couldn't get any worse, Lesnar turned on him the following night on Raw, setting up this contest. While Lesnar is expected to dominate most of the match, Rhodes should eventually gain the upper hand and secure a victory.
