The WWE Universe is heading into the upcoming Backlash Premium Live Event, which is scheduled to take place this Saturday in St. Louis. The show is already expected to be a blockbuster, with many thrilling matches announced, like the much-awaited clash between John Cena and Randy Orton for the Undisputed WWE Championship. But now, according to recent reports, a new star might make his presence felt at the event to make it even more special.
Jeff Cobb Expected to Appear at Backlash
Former NJPW star Jeff Cobb is rumored to show up at Backlash. He left his previous company last month after losing to Hiroshi Tanahashi in his final match there. He also had to vacate the IWGP Tag Team Championship after his departure. However, long before that, there had already been rumors that he might be on his way back to WWE.
Now, reports are suggesting that he could make his first WWE appearance this Saturday at Backlash. Cobb is known worldwide for his in-ring skills and has been part of several big wrestling promotions.
Jeff Coff is expected to start “soon” with WWE.
Some within the company expect that Cobb will be at #WWEBacklash this Saturday.
– per @PWInsidercom pic.twitter.com/10TelPsSYx
— PW Chronicle (@_PWChronicle) May 8, 2025
While it’s expected that he’ll appear, it’s still unclear whether he’ll interrupt a match or just show up in the crowd. He’s expected to join SmackDown, so chances are high we’ll see his actual in-ring debut on the blue brand in the coming weeks.
WWE Backlash Match Card
From a fatal four-way for the US Title to what might be the final showdown between Cena and Orton, Backlash is packed with high-stakes matchups—and more could still be announced before the event.
The most talked-about match of the night is clearly Cena vs. Orton, which is being promoted as possibly the last clash between the two legends. With a long and heated rivalry behind them, things might finally come to an end this Saturday.
Here’s the list of confirmed matches for the event:
- John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton – Undisputed WWE Championship
- Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch – Women’s Intercontinental Championship
- Gunther vs. Pat McAfee
- Jacob Fatu (c) vs. Drew McIntyre vs. LA Knight vs. Damian Priest – U.S. Championship (Fatal 4-Way)
- Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Penta – Intercontinental Championship
Another match that could be added is a WWE Women’s Championship bout between Tiffany Stratton and whoever wins the No. 1 Contender match between Nia Jax and Jade Cargill this Friday.
The show is stacked with big names and exciting bouts. Fans are eagerly counting down the days, and who knows—Cobb showing up could be one of the biggest surprises of the night.