WWE Backlash 2025: Cena Retains, New Stars Shine, and Storylines Evolve in St. Louis (5-10-25)

By: Xavier Jones

Headline Photo Credit: WWE 

WWE Backlash 2025, the first premium live event (PLE) following WrestleMania 41, delivered a night of high-octane action at the Enterprise Center on May 10, 2025. Headlined by John Cena’s Undisputed WWE Championship defense against hometown hero Randy Orton, the event featured five matches, four title bouts, and a mix of veteran star power and emerging talent. While no championships changed hands, the show set the stage for compelling storylines on the road to SummerSlam, with standout performances and a few controversial finishes that sparked debate among fans. Backlash 2025 proved that WWE’s post-WrestleMania momentum remains strong, even if some creative choices raised eyebrows.

Main Event: Cena vs. Orton—A Rivalry’s Final Chapter?

The marquee match pitted John Cena, the 17-time world champion, against Randy Orton in a clash billed as “One Last Time.” Cena, fresh off his polarizing heel turn and title win over Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania 41, leaned into his villainous persona, vowing to “ruin wrestling” during his farewell tour before retiring by year’s end. Orton, with the St. Louis crowd firmly behind him, aimed to dethrone his longtime rival and add a 15th world title to his resume. The two, who have faced off 21 times over their storied careers (with Cena leading 13-7-1), delivered a 27-minute main event that blended nostalgia, physicality, and overbooked chaos. 

The match was a throwback to WWE’s 2010s playbook, featuring multiple referee bumps, table spots, and a parade of finishing moves. Orton countered Cena’s Attitude Adjustment and Five Knuckle Shuffle into two RKOs, igniting the crowd. However, the match’s climax drew mixed reactions. After Orton RKO’d SmackDown GM Nick Aldis and other officials in a frenzy, R-Truth’s surprise run-in, intended to save Cena from a punt kick, backfired. Cena capitalized with a low blow and a title belt shot to retain the championship. Post-match, Cena’s shocking assault on R-Truth at the press conference underscored his heel persona, while Orton’s loss left fans wondering if he’ll get another shot. 

United States Championship: Jacob Fatu’s Star-Making Defense

The night kicked off with a barnburner as Jacob Fatu defended the WWE United States Championship in a Fatal 4-Way against LA Knight, Drew McIntyre, and Damian Priest. Fatu, who won the title at WrestleMania 41, showcased his athleticism and charisma in a 17-minute opener hailed as the match of the night. The debut of Jeff Cobb, aligning with The Bloodline, added a fresh wrinkle, as his interference helped Fatu retain the title. The finish protected all competitors while advancing the faction’s storyline, with tensions brewing between Fatu and Solo Sikoa.

Intercontinental Championship: Dominik Mysterio’s Career-Best Performance

Dominik Mysterio defended the Intercontinental Championship against Penta in what could be considered as Mysterio’s finest singles match to date. The 15-minute bout saw Mysterio, sporting Psicosis-inspired gear, match Penta’s high-flying pace. Despite interference attempts by Judgment Day’s Finn Balor and JD McDonagh, the referee ejected them, only for Carlito’s headbutt on Penta to set up Mysterio’s Frog Splash victory. The St. Louis crowd embraced Penta’s fan-friendly entrance, but Mysterio’s heel work shone through.

Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Lyra Valkryia Outshines Becky Lynch

Lyra Valkyria defended her Women’s Intercontinental Championship against Becky Lynch in a match that stole the show. Stemming from Lynch’s heel turn after attacking Valkyria post-WrestleMania, the 18-minute contest was a technical masterclass. Valkyria’s desperation pinfall victory, followed by Lynch’s post-match beatdown, kept the feud alive. The St. Louis crowd was invested throughout, and Valkyria’s mic work in the buildup proved she’s ready for the main event scene. 

Gunther vs. Pat McAfee: A Surprising Highlight

In the only non-title match, Gunther faced Pat McAfee, who returned to the ring for the first time in two years. Stemming from Gunther’s attack on commentator Michael Cole and McAfee’s subsequent defense, the 20-minute bout was a mix of comedy and brutality. McAfee, in street clothes, tripped on a top-rope attempt but recovered with athletic spots, while Gunther’s dominance culminated in a technical submission victory. A post-match nod of respect from Gunther added depth to his character. 

Takeaways and What’s Next

WWE Backlash 2025 was an above-average PLE, with strong in-ring action overshadowed by some questionable booking. The lack of title changes frustrated some fans, but the focus on storytelling, particularly Cena’s heel run, The Bloodline’s expansion, and Valkyria’s ascent, sets up intriguing arcs. The event’s reliance on interference and chaotic finishes, especially in the main event, felt like a step back from WWE’s recent emphasis on clean resolutions. Still, the midcard title matches delivered, and Fatu and Mysterio emerged as stars to watch.

Looking ahead, Cena’s title reign will likely face challenges from top babyfaces, possibly Cody Rhodes or Jey Uso, as his heel persona evolves. The Bloodline’s internal dynamics, with Fatu and Cobb, could dominate SmackDown, while Valkyria’s feud with Lynch may intersect with Bayley’s return. Gunther’s reset positions him for a world title push, and Mysterio’s Judgment Day drama promises factional upheaval.

Final Verdict: Backlash 2025 wasn’t a game-changer like WrestleMania 41, but it kept WWE’s narrative engine humming. With a hot crowd, memorable matches, and new faces stepping up, the event laid a solid foundation for the Road to SummerSlam.