WWE Backlash 2025 Predictions & Preview – Cena vs Orton, Title Clashes, and AEW Crossover Buzz
WWE Backlash 2025 is shaping up to be an explosive Premium Live Event in St. Louis, and fans are buzzing about the stacked card and surprise twists on the horizon. In this preview, we break down all the major matches – from John Cena vs Randy Orton at Backlash 2025 to the inter-brand showdowns – with insights and WWE Backlash 2025 predictions courtesy of the Wrestling Uncensored podcast featuring Dave Simon and Johnny North. The hosts (and their lively live audience) didn’t hold back on opinions, giving us candid takes on each feud’s background, wrestler trajectories, and likely outcomes. We’ll also dive into some AEW Double or Nothing 2025 card hype that the hosts touched on – including Hangman Page vs. Will Ospreay, Toni Storm’s wild title eliminator, and even the shocking return of Zack Gowen.
Key Takeaways (Most Anticipated WWE Backlash Moments):
- Controversial Main Event: A heelish John Cena defends the WWE Championship against hometown hero Randy Orton – expect cheating and possibly a disqualification finish to keep the title on Cena.
- Women’s Title Showdown: Becky Lynch challenges Lyra Valkyria for the new Women’s Intercontinental Championship, with Big Time Becks heavily favoured to win gold and a potential Bayley run-in looming.
- Grudge Match: Pat McAfee steps out of commentary to fight Gunther vs Pat McAfee – a battle of the big mouth vs. the Ring General. Gunther is expected to brutalize McAfee and win, possibly setting up a post-match surprise (Goldberg, anyone?).
- International Showdown: Dominik Mysterio vs Penta pits Dirty Dom against a lucha legend for the Intercontinental title. Dominik’s Judgment Day allies tip the scales, making a sneaky win likely for Mysterio.
- Fatal 4-Way Chaos: New U.S. Champion Jacob Fatu defends in a four-way vs. LA Knight, Damian Priest, and Drew McIntyre – a hard-hitting clash where Fatu is predicted to retain by pinning Drew, fueling a singles feud.
- AEW Crossover Buzz: Wrestling Uncensored also dished on AEW’s latest – Hangman Page vs. Will Ospreay’s high-stakes bout, Toni Storm’s puzzling eliminator match outcome, and even one-legged underdog Zack Gowen’s return to the ring.
With those highlights in mind, let’s detail each match and storyline.
John Cena vs Randy Orton – Legendary Rivalry Renewed 🔥
The Backlash 2025 main event brings us a familiar feud with a new twist: John Cena vs. Randy Orton for the WWE Championship. This rivalry is nearly two decades old, but it’s got fresh fuel now that Cena is WWE Champion and embracing villainous tactics. Cena’s surprise title win (and apparent heel turn) earlier this year has been polarizing – as Johnny North put it, “this needs to end as soon as possible. It is beyond pathetic right now watching Cena do anything”. Strong words, but many fans share that frustration with Cena’s reign as a cocky, cheating champ.
Randy Orton, on the other hand, is on the comeback trail and riding a wave of fan goodwill. After spending significant time out due to injury, Orton returned hungry and earned this shot (possibly by winning a #1 contender match or even the Royal Rumble). Adding to the drama, Backlash is in Orton’s hometown of St. Louis – the Viper has home-field advantage and the crowd firmly behind him. The podcast crew noted all signs point to a big hometown moment with Orton “winning in his hometown, just doesn’t win the title”. In other words, a likely screwjob finish.
Both Dave Simon and Johnny North agree the match outcome will be shenanigan-heavy. Don’t expect a clean finish from these veterans who know every trick in the book. Simon predicted Cena will resort to a low blow or some underhanded move behind the ref’s back to steal a pin – “Cena cheats to win, [the] crowd hates it”. North actually foresaw the inverse: Orton technically winning by disqualification due to Cena blatantly fouling (a throwback to an infamous Orton-Cena finish from years ago). Either way, the consensus is that Cena will leave Backlash 2025 still champion, much to the chagrin of the audience. As Simon joked, “This one will be bad. I’ve got Cena winning… you’ve got Randy winning by DQ. I’ve got Cena winning by cheating.”. After so many Cena-Orton battles over the years (most of which were “pretty terrible” in Simon’s opinion), expectations for an in-ring classic are low. The intrigue here is all about the storyline and whether WWE pulls the trigger on a controversial finish to extend this feud.
Feud Background: This feud reignited when Cena shockingly captured the WWE title at WrestleMania 2025, ending [insert previous champion]’s reign in dubious fashion. Orton, returning from a long rehab, staked his claim as the locker room defender to take down the arrogant champ. Their history runs deep – from legendary bouts in 2007-09 to Hell in a Cell showdowns – and Backlash adds another chapter. WWE has played up Orton as the avenging hero for fans tired of Cena’s ego. Cena’s been arrogantly touting his “Never Give Up” motto while… repeatedly giving low blows (the irony!). As Simon noted, “Cena’s been doing the low blows, it’s been part of his gimmick” this run. Expect Orton to be ready for those dirty tricks. The big question: can Orton finally end Cena’s reign, or will Cena slither away with the gold again?
Prediction: John Cena retains the WWE Championship. The likely scenario is a frustrated Cena intentionally getting disqualified or pulling off a sneaky cheat-pin, robbing Orton of a clean victory. The hosts unanimously see Cena leaving with the title (to their dismay). “I’m not expecting greatness off this” match, North sighed, but the drama will be sky-high if Orton comes close to winning. Keep an eye out for a possible post-match angle – could an enraged Orton attack Cena after the bell, or someone else emerge? (Perhaps a certain Money in the Bank briefcase holder if one existed – though that’s speculation for now).
Becky Lynch vs Lyra Valkyria – Grudge Rematch for the Women’s IC Title
Another marquee matchup at Backlash is Becky Lynch vs. Lyra Valkyria for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship. Yes, you read that right – WWE apparently introduced a Women’s IC Title, and Lyra Valkyria currently holds it. This bout is steeped in personal history. Recall that last year, Becky ventured to NXT and Lyra Valkyria shockingly dethroned her mentor to become NXT Women’s Champion. Now the roles are reversed with Lyra as champion and Becky as challenger on a bigger stage.
Dave Simon didn’t mince words about the likely outcome here: “I got a new champion here… It’s gonna be Big Time Bex, The Man, taking that IC title.” He believes Backlash 2025 will see Becky Lynch finally get her win back and some gold around her waist. Johnny North agreed, saying while it might feel “a little too early” for Lyra’s reign to end, it “makes sense. [The] title changes hands here.” The reasoning is that Backlash needs at least one title change to shake things up, and this is the spot to do it. “They gotta do something on this show,” Simon added, and a Becky title win would certainly get people talking.
Storyline Context: After Lyra beat Becky on NXT, Becky returned to Raw full-time. But the Irish Lass Kicker clearly wasn’t done with her protégé. Tensions resumed when Becky set her sights on Lyra’s new Intercontinental Championship – a title meant to elevate the women’s division. Lyra, brimming with confidence after her huge upset last year, has reminded Becky that the future is now. Meanwhile, Becky is determined to prove she’s still “The Man” and not ready to pass any torch yet. There’s also an X-factor: Bayley. Bayley has been poking her nose in Becky’s business lately (the Wrestling Uncensored hosts hinted that “Bayley’s gonna get involved” in this feud). Bayley could either cost Becky the match or inadvertently create the opening for Becky to win. Simon and North speculated that even if Becky wins here, Lyra might regain the title, thanks to Bayley’s meddling, extending this rivalry.
Regarding wrestler trajectories, Lyra Valkyria has been on a rapid rise – from NXT standout to holding a mid-tier main roster title – and hanging with a star like Becky will only raise her stock. Becky Lynch, already a made woman in WWE, is looking to add another accolade and perhaps elevate this new championship’s prestige. Their first encounter was excellent, and both have only grown more intense.
Prediction: Becky Lynch dethrones Lyra Valkyria to become the new Women’s Intercontinental Champion. The hosts unanimously picked Becky to win, likely in a hard-fought match. North did caution that this will not be the end of their story – “they’re gonna wrestle each other again anyways” – implying a series of matches could be coming. But on this night, expect a feel-good (if not short-lived) Becky victory. The crowd should be hot for Becky, and if/when she raises that title, it’ll be a big moment. Don’t be surprised if Bayley or others attempt interference; Becky might overcome it or Bayley’s interference could backfire on Lyra. Either way, Backlash likely gives us “Big Time Becks” back on top, and a new chapter for the women’s division begins.
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Dominik Mysterio vs Penta El Zero Miedo – Intercontinental Title Clash
One of the most intriguing matchups on the Backlash card sees “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio vs. Penta El Zero Miedo for the men’s Intercontinental Championship. This is a cross-promotional dream match of sorts, as Penta (formerly of Lucha Underground/AEW fame) has stepped into WWE territory to challenge the brash young Mysterio. The backstory: Dominik Mysterio, amid his obnoxious heel run with Judgment Day, somehow captured the Intercontinental Title (shocking the world and angering purists). Penta – a globally respected luchador – answered the call to put Dom in his place. They even had a preview of this fight on Raw recently, where Penta gave Dom a scare in a non-title bout that was “okay” but left room for more.
Despite the hype around Penta’s WWE debut, the prevailing opinion is that Dominik will find a way to keep his title. “Dom’s not losing,” Dave Simon said flatly about this match. Johnny North agreed, and for good reason: Dominik has an army of backup. “There’s a lot of options for Dom to cheat to win. He’s got so many friends,” Simon noted, referring to the ubiquitous interference from Judgment Day partners (and even new allies like JD McDonagh and Carlito). Count on Dominik’s legendary father-turned-rival Rey Mysterio not being one of those friends – but Rey’s old buddy Penta will have to neutralize Rhea Ripley, Finn Bálor, Damian Priest, and whoever else Dom drags along.
On the podcast, Johnny North expressed cautious optimism that this match has potential: “I hope it’s good. I think [there’s] potential to be good”. Penta is known for his high-flying, breakneck lucha style and zero fear attitude, which could steal the show if given time. Dominik, while still developing, has grown into his smarmy heel character – drawing loud boos and sneers from crowds. WWE likely loves the heat “Dirty Dom” gets, which is why he’s enjoying a title run. They’re not about to cut that short. North speculated Dominik will at least hold the IC title until an inevitable clash with his Judgment Day mentor Finn Bálor down the road, hinting at internal conflict brewing.
Feud Build: This feud kicked off when Dominik bragged that he had no competition left, having cheated past all his challengers. Enter Penta El Zero Miedo, making a surprise appearance to a thunderous reaction. For long-time fans, Penta showing up in WWE was a huge deal – and Dominik looked genuinely rattled when the Mexican star stared him down. Penta has a legacy of violence (just ask his broken opponents from AEW) and he might be the first to truly scare Dom straight. Their brief Raw encounter saw Penta nearly snap Dom’s arm before Judgment Day swarmed in. Now at Backlash, with the title on the line, can Penta overcome the numbers game and make history? Or will Dominik weasel his way out yet again?
Prediction: Dominik Mysterio retains the Intercontinental Championship by hook or by crook. Every sign (and every member of Judgment Day) points to Dom finding a cheap way to win. Perhaps a well-timed distraction by Rhea or a foreign object slid by JD McDonagh leads to Dominik rolling up Penta for a tainted three-count. The Wrestling Uncensored hosts both picked Dominik, with Simon joking about the “so many good friends” Dom has to help. Penta will wow the crowd and come this close to winning – he might even hit his Fear Factor package piledriver – but expect a chorus of boos as Dominik slithers away still champion. Love him or hate him, Dirty Dom is becoming quite the slippery title-holder, and WWE will likely keep building that heat.
Gunther vs Pat McAfee – The Ring General Meets The SmackDown Loudmouth
In a battle nobody knew they needed until now, Gunther vs. Pat McAfee is set for Backlash 2025. It’s the classic story of a dominant wrestler being challenged by an outsider with a big mouth. Pat McAfee, famed NFL-punter-turned-commentator, has never been shy about getting physical in the ring (we’ve seen him leap off WarGames cages and stun Austin Theory at WrestleMania). But stepping to Gunther, the “Ring General”? That’s a whole different level of danger.
The feud ignited when McAfee returned to SmackDown commentary and took verbal shots at Gunther’s tactics, calling him out for some perceived cowardice. Gunther – who was briefly (kayfabe) suspended indefinitely for brutalizing a WWE official – made a dramatic return, and he did not appreciate McAfee’s commentary. McAfee cut a passionate promo to Gunther’s face, and Gunther, never one to back down, uttered a cold response along the lines of, “Okay, great… now I’m gonna take care of you.” Thus, this match was set: the charismatic Pat McAfee versus one of WWE’s most fearsome athletes.
The expectation here is fairly one-sided. Dave Simon stated what most assume: “Gunther has to win this, right?”. Johnny North concurred, “he’ll beat the crap out of McAfee, of course, and I agree, he should win.”. In other words, poor Pat is likely walking into a buzzsaw. Gunther (who many still consider the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion of modern times) is on a trajectory toward the main event scene – he’s an unbeatable final boss character. McAfee is an entertainer who can wrestle occasionally, but he’s not about to halt Gunther’s momentum.
That said, the hosts did raise an interesting possibility of “shenanigans” after the match. Johnny North warned that even though Gunther should destroy Pat, “doesn’t mean that’s gonna happen… There might be shenanigans. I just hope the shenanigans happen after the match.” This hints that something (or someone) could emerge once Gunther presumably wins. In fact, Dave Simon mused that we might even see Goldberg appear to confront Gunther. It’s a rumor that’s been swirling – Gunther has expressed interest in retiring the WCW icon, and with Goldberg a free agent, a post-match face-off could blow the roof off Backlash.
Match Outlook: Expect a highly entertaining clash of styles. Pat McAfee will undoubtedly bring his A-game – he’s shown surprising athleticism before, and he’ll need every bit of it. The live crowd will be firmly behind McAfee’s underdog spirit and trash-talking bravado. But once the bell rings, Gunther is likely to chop McAfee’s chest raw. (McAfee might seriously regret wrestling in a sleeveless tank top…) The hosts gleefully anticipated Gunther dishing out his trademark punishing chops – “I hope he chops the s** out of him,”* Simon laughed. McAfee’s strategy will be stick-and-move: use quick strikes, maybe a surprise top-rope dive, and avoid Gunther’s clutches. Inevitably, though, Gunther’s power should prevail – one thunderous lariat or powerbomb could end Pat’s night.
Prediction: Gunther defeats Pat McAfee decisively. This is likely to be a fun match with plenty of character moments (listen for McAfee jawing at Gunther mid-match, and Gunther responding with a slap that echoes through the arena). The outcome, however, isn’t in much doubt. “Gunther will win, and then whatever happens afterwards…” is the real question. Fans could witness a post-match angle – perhaps Gunther continues beating down Pat until an unlikely savior arrives (could that be Goldberg’s music hitting? Or maybe a returning superstar like Drew McIntyre if not already on the card). One thing’s for sure: people will tune in “to see Gunther beat the hell out of Pat McAfee,” as Simon wryly noted. The Ring General marches on, and Pat will have a heck of a story to talk about on his podcast next week.
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U.S. Championship Fatal 4-Way – Fatu vs Knight vs Priest vs McIntyre
Backlash 2025 also treats us to a high-stakes Fatal 4-Way for the United States Championship. The new champion Jacob Fatu puts his title on the line against three hungry challengers: LA Knight, Damian Priest, and Drew McIntyre. On paper, this could steal the show – four heavy-hitters with very different styles and a title up for grabs (with no count-outs or DQs). The Wrestling Uncensored crew pegged this match as a potential highlight: “the four-way for the US title, I think that’ll be pretty good,” Dave Simon said optimistically.
Jacob Fatu is a name to know if you’re not familiar: a member of the famed Anoa’i family (cousin to The Usos/Roman Reigns), he made his name as a dominant champion in MLW. WWE signed him, and he’s wasted no time making an impact – literally. Fatu’s a wrecking ball of agility and ferocity, and he shocked everyone by capturing the US Championship shortly after debuting (rumor has it he answered an open challenge and dethroned Logan Paul, but that’s another story). Now he faces his biggest test with multiple top-tier opponents at once.
Each challenger has their own motivation and momentum: LA Knight is arguably the most popular man in WWE today, riding a tidal wave of “YEAH!” chants. He narrowly missed out on championship gold at WrestleMania, so he’s coming in hot. Damian Priest, representing Judgment Day, is a former US Champion himself and has been Mr. Reliable in big matches (not to mention he still holds that Money in the Bank briefcase… oh wait, that was 2023 – by 2025 Priest might have used it or lost it; either way he’s a constant threat).
Drew McIntyre, the Scottish Warrior, has shown a more ruthless edge lately – he’s desperate to climb back to the top, and taking out three other men to become US Champion would make a loud statement. Notably, on the SmackDown before Backlash, Drew ambushed Fatu, laying him out with a Claymore Kick. That attack makes Drew the most hated man in Fatu’s eyes, and perhaps the frontrunner target in the match.
Feud Developments: The lead-up saw various combinations of these four collide. In a tag match, LA Knight and Priest teamed up (somehow) to face Fatu and Solo Sikoa; Knight and Priest won, with Knight pinning Fatu after Priest softened him up. Post-match, Drew McIntyre stormed in and blindsided Fatu, showing he’ll do whatever it takes. The champs and challengers have all traded words too – Knight’s been boasting “YEAH! I’m gonna win that title!” to huge cheers, Priest has ominously promised Judgment Day dominance, and Drew bluntly said everyone will “fall to the Claymore.” Fatu, for his part, is done talking – the Samoan Werewolf wants revenge and respect.
On the podcast, both Simon and North confidently predicted that Jacob Fatu would retain his championship. They even forecast the likely finish: Fatu pinning Drew McIntyre. “I think Jacob retains. I think he might pin McIntyre because of what happened [on SmackDown],” North said. Simon agreed that “I could see Drew getting pinned… They might do a Drew-Fatu thing [after]. Could be fun.”.
The logic behind that pick is sound: Drew’s attack has lit a fire under Fatu, so Fatu pinning Drew would be sweet payback and possibly spin Drew off into a singles feud with Fatu later. Meanwhile, they suspect WWE will protect the other two from taking the loss. “Priest… I don’t think they wanna pin him too much. And LA lost at WrestleMania, so you don’t wanna get him pinned too much as well. I think Drew can get pinned here,” Johnny explained. In a multi-man match, someone’s gotta eat the fall, and the hosts figure Drew (who can absorb a loss better, especially if it took multiple finishers) is the guy.
Prediction: Jacob Fatu survives the Fatal 4-Way and remains U.S. Champion. Expect absolute chaos in this match – high spots, power moves, and likely some temporary alliances (for example, don’t be surprised if Knight and Drew work together briefly to suplex Fatu off the top, or Priest and Fatu double-team someone before turning on each other). The no-DQ element means Judgment Day’s cronies could get involved to help Priest, or Knight could bring out his buddy Boogs, etc., but with so many bodies already, interference may not even be needed. In the end, Fatu’s combination of wild brawling and aerial assaults (yes, this 300-pounder can hit a moonsault) should carry him through.
He’s the newcomer with a lot to prove, and WWE often lets a dominant newcomer get a big win to establish credibility. The hosts have Fatu pinning McIntyre, which makes sense: Drew might drill Knight with a Claymore, then Fatu superkicks Drew and nails his top-rope moonsault on Drew for the win while Priest and Knight are down. Backlash ends with Jacob Fatu howling in victory, title held high, as LA Knight and Damian Priest regroup and Drew fumes. This outcome sets up intriguing directions – maybe a one-on-one Fatu vs. McIntyre program next, while Knight and Priest could pivot toward the world title scene or Money in the Bank (speaking of which…).
AEW Double or Nothing 2025 Card and Storylines 🌟
In addition to all the WWE excitement, the Wrestling Uncensored hosts spent part of their show discussing the AEW Double or Nothing 2025 card and major storylines in All Elite Wrestling. It’s a great time to be a wrestling fan, as AEW is building to its own big pay-per-view just weeks after Backlash. Here are some highlights of what Dave Simon and Johnny North had to say about AEW’s happenings:
- Hangman Page vs. Will Ospreay – #1 Contender Showdown: One of the most anticipated matches on the Double or Nothing card is Hangman Page taking on Will Ospreay, with the winner earning a title shot (reportedly at AEW All In later this year). The hosts absolutely loved the promo segment that set this up. “They cut a hell of a promo… That was my favorite part of the whole show [Dynamite],” Dave raved. In the build, Hangman poured his heart out about his past failures and quest for redemption, while Ospreay coolly reminded him that “it’s not about [Hangman’s] redemption… It’s about Ospreay’s ascension.”. That line gave goosebumps – as Simon noted, Ospreay basically said he respects Hangman’s journey but is focused on his own rise to the top. Johnny North highlighted how compelling this face-vs-face matchup is: “This is a pretty big match… it’s babyface versus babyface… it could go either way.”.
- As for predictions, Dave Simon admitted he’s “leaning towards Ospreay winning… but I kind of want Hangman to win.”. Either result wouldn’t shock him, but Ospreay has been on fire (and if the winner truly is “probably the next AEW Champion,” as Simon mentioned, Ospreay could be poised for that spot). Bottom line: Hangman vs. Ospreay is expected to steal the show at Double or Nothing with a potential show-stealer and set up one of them as a future title challenger.
- Women’s Division – Toni Storm’s Title Eliminator & Mercedes Moné’s Buildup: AEW’s women’s championship scene got a weird wrinkle recently. Toni Storm, the reigning AEW Women’s World Champion, participated in and won a four-way “Title Eliminator” match that included herself. Yes, the champ was in a contenders match. The result? Toni beat Thunder Rosa, Anna Jay, and Penelope Ford, essentially eliminating all her top challengers in one go. The hosts were baffled by this booking. “Why are they doing a four-way for a title shot with the champion in the match? … That was a stupid match. Just admit that the booking of that match was dumb,” Dave vented. Johnny tried to rationalize that in kayfabe, Toni “eliminated” those contenders from challenging her, but it certainly was unconventional.
- The likely direction, as Simon pointed out, is building toward a Mercedes Moné (Sasha Banks) vs. Toni Storm mega-match down the line. “We’re probably headed towards Mercedes Moné versus Toni Storm at All In, but first Mercedes has to beat Jamie Hayter at Double or Nothing in the Owen Hart Cup tournament final,” Simon explained. Indeed, Mercedes Moné is slated to face former champ Jamie Hayter in the Owen Hart Cup Final at DON, and many expect Mercedes to win that and then challenge Toni Storm later this summer.
- So while Toni currently has no challenger (having “eliminated” them), the stage is being set for Mercedes to emerge as the next one. Keep an eye on how AEW further develops Toni’s “crazy, timeless Toni” character and Mercedes’ quest to the top. The hosts are excited for the eventual Toni vs. Mercedes showdown, but until then, they’ll call out the odd booking when they see it. (Simon bluntly calling the eliminator “absurd” got a lot of nods from the live chat, no doubt.)
- Shocking Return of Zack Gowen: In a crossover that surprised everyone, former WWE underdog Zack Gowen (yes, the one-legged wrestler from 2003 who fought Vince McMahon and Brock Lesnar) popped up in AEW! Johnny North recapped this feel-good story: On AEW Collision, Gowen confronted a heelish Ricochet (who apparently has jumped to AEW). “Remember Zack Gowen, right? … So he showed up and now he’s challenged Ricochet for next week at Beach Break. … Ricochet’s a jerk… took his leg or something. So now they’re gonna have a match.” That’s right – Ricochet, showing a new mean streak, disrespected Gowen (even grabbing Gowen’s prosthetic leg at one point!). This prompted Gowen to issue a challenge, which is set for a special “Beach Break” episode.
- The hosts found it pretty cool to see Zack Gowen back and mixing it up with modern stars. It’s a niche storyline, but it adds to the fun variety in AEW programming leading into Double or Nothing. (And if you’re wondering, yes, Rhino also showed up on Dynamite recently, and Johnny got a kick out of that too – AEW has been on a nostalgia kick, bringing in veterans for cameos.)
- Other AEW Notes: The build to Double or Nothing 2025 also features MJF’s latest antics (some “syndicate” storyline that Johnny mentioned was entertaining), and an expected Anarchy in the Arena match. North predicted we’ll see another wild arena brawl involving The Elite and the Blackpool Combat Club after recent chaos on Dynamite. “I think we’re gonna get Anarchy in the Arena.
- Swerve’s gonna be on that team with the BCC…” he speculated. Indeed, with Swerve Strickland aligning against The Elite (the Young Bucks) and the BCC (Moxley’s crew) still at war with Kenny Omega and friends, it looks like a massive multi-man brawl is brewing for DON. Expect shattered guitars, blood, and maybe a exploding sneaker or two – Double or Nothing has a history of over-the-top matches like Stadium Stampede and Anarchy in the Arena. The hosts didn’t dive too deep into the world title scene (perhaps MJF’s challenger wasn’t clear yet), but with the Hangman-Ospreay match and likely a big angle with Moxley/Elite, Double or Nothing’s card is filling out nicely.
All in all, AEW is delivering some buzzworthy stories alongside WWE’s Backlash buildup. It’s interesting to see the parallel tracks: WWE leaning on legends (Cena/Orton) and established stars, while AEW mixes top-tier dream matches (Hangman-Ospreay) with quirky surprises (Gowen vs. Ricochet). For fans of both, late May 2025 is going to be an awesome ride.
Finishing Off with WWE Backlash 2025
WWE Backlash 2025 promises to be a night of nostalgia, grudges, and potential turning points on the road to summer. From John Cena and Randy Orton rekindling their rivalry to Becky Lynch aiming to make history, the card is stacked with must-see showdowns. The Wrestling Uncensored crew’s WWE Backlash 2025 predictions might not all come true, but they provide a roadmap of what to watch for – Cena’s crafty title retention, Becky’s big triumph, Dominik’s devious plans, Gunther’s dominance, and Fatu’s rise. Meanwhile, the wider wrestling world is heating up too, with AEW’s stars making headlines and even crossing paths with former WWE names.
As fans, we get to sit back and enjoy the unpredictability. Will Backlash end in chaos with a hated champ standing tall (looking at you, Cena and Dom)? Or will we get feel-good moments like Becky holding gold again? One thing’s for sure: the fallout from Backlash will roll right into the next big event. (In fact, the WWE Money in the Bank 2025 preview is already on fans’ minds – who will climb the ladder next month might depend on what happens at Backlash!). So, buckle up for Backlash and Double or Nothing – it’s a great time to be a wrestling fan, ya know what I mean? YEAH!
On SmackDown, McIntyre ambushed Fatu, making Drew the logical pinfall candidate. Both Simon and North predicted Fatu retains by pinning Drew, protecting Knight and Priest for future singles pushes.
Prediction: Jacob Fatu retains. Expect chaotic high spots, temporary alliances, and Fatu hitting a moonsault on Drew for the three‑count. The aftermath could spin into Fatu vs McIntyre singles feud next.
AEW Double or Nothing 2025 Card and Storylines 🌟
Wrestling Uncensored also previewed AEW’s upcoming Double or Nothing 2025:
- Hangman Page vs Will Ospreay: A face‑vs‑face showdown for a future title shot. Hosts raved about the promo build: Ospreay’s “ascension” line vs Hangman’s redemption story. Prediction leans slightly toward Ospreay, but either result steals the show.
- Toni Storm’s Title Eliminator: Toni bizarrely entered and won a four‑way to eliminate her own challengers. Hosts called the booking “absurd,” but it sets up a future Toni Storm vs Mercedes Moné blockbuster after Mercedes wins the Owen Hart Cup at DON.
- Zack Gowen’s Return: One‑legged underdog Zack Gowen challenged Ricochet on AEW Collision after Ricochet disrespected him. A feel‑good match is set for Beach Break, adding nostalgia to AEW’s card.
- Anarchy in the Arena Tease: Expect a chaotic multi‑man brawl pitting The Elite vs Blackpool Combat Club & friends, possibly an Anarchy in the Arena match at DON.
AEW’s creative contrasts with WWE’s legends‑driven booking, giving fans variety across both brands.
WWE Backlash 2025 promises nostalgia, drama, and pivotal storyline twists. The card delivers must-see moments from Cena’s crafty title retention to Becky’s triumphant return to gold. Meanwhile, AEW’s Double or Nothing build offers dream matches and surprise returns. The fallout from Backlash (and AEW’s DON) will set the pace toward Money in the Bank and All In later this summer. Whether you tune in for the legendary veterans, rising stars, or unexpected crossovers, late May 2025 is prime time for wrestling fans. Enjoy the show!
