WWE Backlash 2026 is shaping up to be a must-see event, and after the latest episode of SmackDown on May 1, the card is looking more stacked than ever. With five solid matches confirmed, fans in Tampa, Florida, are in for a night of high-octane action at the Benchmark International Arena.
The show kicked off with a bang as Trick Williams, the reigning United States Champion, found himself ambushed by Sami Zayn. Zayn targeted Williams' beloved Gingerbread Man mascot during SmackDown, igniting a fiery rivalry. Williams wasted no time granting Zayn a rematch, setting the stage for a high-stakes singles bout. Expect a clash of styles here: Williams' explosive athleticism versus Zayn's crafty, technical prowess.
In another thrilling addition, the eccentric Danhausen will team up with a mystery partner to take on The Miz and Kit Wilson. The chaos began when Danhausen trapped the duo in a cloud of powder, only for Miz to retaliate with a devastating Skull Crushing Finale. WWE official Nick Aldis quickly made it official, but with the twist that Danhausen must find a partner by showtime. Who will step up to join the supernatural star?
Here's the confirmed card so far:
- Roman Reigns (c) vs. Jacob Fatu — World Heavyweight Championship: The Tribal Chief faces his toughest challenge yet against the powerhouse Fatu. Can Reigns maintain his dominance, or will Fatu's raw strength dethrone him?
- Trick Williams (c) vs. Sami Zayn — United States Championship: A personal grudge match with the title on the line.
- Danhausen & A Mystery Partner vs. The Miz & Kit Wilson: Tag team chaos with a surprise element.
The SmackDown side of the card still has room to grow, and the May 8 go-home episode will be crucial for filling the remaining slots. The biggest question mark remains the Undisputed WWE Championship picture. Cody Rhodes is still medically uncleared after the orbital injury Randy Orton inflicted at WrestleMania 42, leaving the title match in limbo. An open challenge has been teased, with names like Orton, Gunther, and CM Punk all in the conversation, depending on Rhodes' recovery status.
On the women's side, Rhea Ripley vs. Jacy Jayne has been rumored following Fatal Influence's debut attacks on the roster, but nothing is official yet. Stay tuned for updates.
Backlash streams live on ESPN Unlimited in the U.S. starting at 6 p.m. ET on Saturday, May 9. International fans can catch all the action on the WWE Network. Don't miss a moment of the chaos!