Context:

WWE Backlash 2025 featured a series of intense matches, highlighted by John Cena's victory over Randy Orton for the Undisputed WWE Championship, with an unexpected assist from R-Truth. Cena and Orton showcased their deep familiarity with each other's styles, engaging in a match marked by numerous reversals and dramatic moments, including interference and referee disruptions. Pat McAfee demonstrated remarkable resilience against Gunther, enduring a barrage of attacks but ultimately succumbing to Gunther's prowess. Dominik Mysterio retained the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Penta, with the assistance of Chad Gable, while Lyra Valkyria successfully defended the WWE Women's Intercontinental Title against Becky Lynch despite Lynch's underhanded tactics. Jacob Fatu emerged victorious in a chaotic WWE United States Championship match, benefiting from interference by Solo Sikoa and the debuting Jeff Cobb, setting the stage for future storylines in WWE's landscape.

Dive Deeper:

• John Cena retained the Undisputed WWE Championship by defeating Randy Orton, with significant help from R-Truth, in a match that reversed their traditional roles with Cena as the heel and Orton as the underdog. The match was characterized by multiple reversals and a referee bump, which were pivotal in its outcome.

• Pat McAfee faced off against Gunther, showing impressive resilience despite being outmatched. Gunther's relentless assault left McAfee's chest bruised, and though McAfee had moments of hope, Gunther eventually subdued him, with Michael Cole's bias towards McAfee being a notable commentary point.

• Dominik Mysterio successfully defended his WWE Intercontinental Championship against Penta, showcasing his heel persona. The match saw interference from The Judgement Day, and Chad Gable played a crucial role in helping Mysterio secure the victory.

• Lyra Valkyria retained her WWE Women's Intercontinental Title against Becky Lynch, who employed crafty strategies and attempted to use a chair to gain an advantage. Despite her lack of experience compared to Lynch, Valkyria capitalized on a rollup to win, but Lynch attacked her post-match, indicating ongoing tensions.

• The opening match for the WWE United States Championship saw Jacob Fatu triumph over LA Knight, Damian Priest, and Drew McIntyre. The match was highlighted by interference from Solo Sikoa and the debut of Jeff Cobb, with Fatu ultimately outshining his competitors to claim victory.

• John Cena's recent victories, including the one at Backlash, have been aided by allies like Travis Scott and R-Truth, raising questions about his future trajectory and potential alliances or rivalries.

• Jeff Cobb's debut during the United States Championship match is seen as a significant addition to WWE, potentially impacting the dynamics within The Bloodline and setting up new rivalries and storylines moving forward.

• A rivalry that spans generations renews when Randy Orton challenges John Cena on May 10 for the Undisputed WWE Championship. The match at WWE's Backlash event in St. Louis, along with undercard action, airs on Peacock in the U.S.

• The feud between Orton and Cena began in 2007. Orton has been a heel for the entirety of it. The roles are reversed this time, as Cena has aligned himself with The Rock.

• Orton returns home and looks to win gold in front of family and friends. Meanwhile, Cena continues his quest to "ruin wrestling."

• Speaking of rivalries, Pat McAfee has found an enemy in Gunther. The former kicker-turned-broadcaster and podcaster saved Michael Cole from a Gunther beatdown after he lost against Jey Uso at WrestleMania.

• WATCH: WWE Backlash 2025 on Peacock