Everything you need to know about WWE Backlash 2025 as Cena retains his title

WWE Backlash 2025, held on May 10 in St. Louis, was packed with action, as superstars faced off in intense matches that kept fans on the edge of their seats, but it was John Cena's epic showdown that truly stole the spotlight.

John Cena vs. Randy Orton

In a most-awaited match of the evening, John Cena retained his title against Randy Orton in Orton’s hometown.


John Cena and Randy Orton clashed in what seemed like the final chapter of their storied rivalry.

The match, which followed Cena's controversial behavior at WrestleMania 41, was a hard-fought contest for the Undisputed WWE Championship. After a tense exchange, including Cena's slap to Orton and a series of brutal counterattacks, both men put on a thrilling back-and-forth battle.

Key moments included Orton landing an RKO as Cena hit an Attitude Adjustment, and chaotic interference from R-Truth. In the end, Cena delivered a low blow to Orton and capitalized with a pin after using the championship belt. Despite not being a five-star classic, the match was a fitting conclusion to their rivalry.

If this is truly the end of Cena and Orton’s rivalry, they’ve certainly left on a high note. The next challenger for Cena’s title remains uncertain, but it’s expected to be revealed in the coming week.

Gunther vs. Pat McAfee

Gunther defeated Pat McAfee in a match that exceeded expectations, but not without a fight. McAfee showcased his resilience early on, landing some impactful shots and even trapping Gunther in a sleeper hold at one point.

Despite his efforts, Gunther’s power and experience proved too much. McAfee’s brief moments of hope, including some interference from Michael Cole, kept the crowd invested, but ultimately, Gunther locked in a sleeper hold, forcing McAfee to pass out for the win.

Post-match, Gunther offered McAfee respect, signaling potential for future interactions.

Dominik Mysterio vs. Penta

Dominik Mysterio successfully defended his Intercontinental Championship against Penta, but not without controversy.

The match started with a back-and-forth exchange of strikes, with Mysterio showing his growth in the ring, including a suicide dive turned into a DDT on Penta. The champion focused on Penta’s legs, trying to slow him down.

Mysterio also paid tribute to Liv Morgan with an ObLIVion on Penta, but the challenger quickly recovered. As Mysterio gained momentum, Penta hit a Mexican Destroyer, but interference from The Judgment Day led to the stable being ejected from the ringside by the referee.

However, as the distraction continued, El Grande Americano snuck in and hit Penta with a loaded mask, allowing Mysterio to capitalize with a frog splash for the win.

Mysterio's victory solidifies his position as a strong champion, but the involvement of El Grande Americano adds another layer to the ongoing storyline.

With Penta being taken out of the title picture, a future feud between him and the masked figure seems likely, while Mysterio looks ahead to his next challenger.

Lyra Valkyria vs. Becky Lynch

Lyra Valkyria successfully defended her title against Becky Lynch in a contest filled with hard-hitting action and dramatic near-falls.

The match began with Lynch attempting to get inside Valkyria's head, but the champion remained unshaken, even showing off her strength by lifting Lynch into an impressive submission roll.

As the match progressed, both women exchanged devastating moves, including a superplex from Valkyria and a Manhandle Slam from Lynch, but neither could secure the victory.

After some interference attempts from Lynch, including using a chair and exposing the turnbuckle, Valkyria managed to fight back, executing her finishing move.

However, Valkyria later secured the win after a series of roll-ups.

Despite Valkyria’s victory, the post-match saw Lynch launch a furious attack on the intercontinental champion, applying the Disarm-her before being stopped by officials.

Valkyria, though visibly injured, managed to raise her hand in victory.

The match's intensity and the aftermath suggest a potential continuation of this rivalry, with Bayley possibly entering the fray to support the champion.

Jacob Fatu Retains United States Championship in Fatal Four-Way Match

Jacob Fatu successfully retained his United States Championship in a chaotic Fatal Four-Way match, overcoming challengers Drew McIntyre, Damian Priest, and LA Knight. After a series of brutal exchanges, McIntyre looked poised to win but was interrupted by Priest, who sent him through a table.

McIntyre was on the verge of victory after landing his Claymore on Knight, but Priest pulled the referee out of the ring, resulting in a heated battle outside.

As the match progressed, Fatu’s momentum grew, but Knight was blindsided by Jeff Cobb, making his WWE debut.

Jeff Cobb made a surprise debut, emerging from the crowd to aid Solo Sikoa in attacking LA Knight, ultimately helping Jacob Fatu retain his United States Championship.

With help from Solo Sikoa, Fatu pinned Knight to secure the victory. Tensions rise between Fatu and Sikoa, hinting at future conflict, while McIntyre and Priest’s rivalry remains unresolved.

WWE Backlash 2025 delivered intense action and shocking moments, with victories standing out and giving way to new alliances and rivalries.