Potential Spoiler: Former NJPW star expected to debut at WWE Backlash 2025

By Abhijit Singh

Abhijit has been telling sports stories through his words at Khel Now since 2024. He covers Pro wrestling, MMA, Boxing & Formula 1.

Published at :May 9, 2025 at 4:02 PM

Modified at :May 9, 2025 at 4:02 PM

(Courtesy : WWE)

The 2025 edition of Backlash will emanate from St. Louis!

After WrestleMania 41, WWE is all set to deliver Backlash 2025, which will air on May 10 from the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Ahead of the PLE, a report from PWInsider reveals that Former NJPW star and Lucha Underground powerhouse Jeff Cobb is said to be close to making his highly anticipated WWE debut.

However, the report doesn’t confirm Cobb’s on-camera appearance at the PLE, WWE sources suggest his presence at the event is very likely. It’s still unclear whether he’ll make a ringside cameo, appear in a backstage segment, or just participate in preliminary meetings.

“Some people within WWE anticipate Cobb will be present at the Backlash premium live event this Saturday,” PWInsider stated

Furthermore, the Stamford-based promotion has reportedly been actively discussing plans for Cobb’s official debut recently, indicating that his addition to the WWE roster is close. Cobb is best known for his time in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) from 2017 to 2025, where he was a member of United Empire.

Apart from NJPW, Jeff has also performed in Lucha Underground, Ring of Honor (ROH), and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG). Cobb’s arrival in the WWE will definitely shake up the roster of the brand, which he joins among the three.

John Cena will defend the Undisputed title against Randy Orton

Undisputed WWE Champion John Cena will defend the title in the main event of Backlash against Randy Orton. While Intercontinental Champion Lyra Valkyria will put the title on the line against Becky Lynch, the match was set up following their fallout on Raw after WrestleMania.

A sign of things to come this Saturday at #WWEBacklash? 👀▶️ https://t.co/dOlS50KRJl pic.twitter.com/gjbDCQJsuS
— WWE (@WWE) May 9, 2025

United States Champion Jacob Fatu is scheduled to defend the title in a fatal four-way match against Damian Priest, Drew McIntyre, and LA Knight. Intercontinental Champion Dominik Mysterio will also be in action at Backlash 2025 as he defends against Penta on May 10.

Additionally, the former World Heavyweight Champion, Gunther, will lock horns against WWE broadcaster and renowned sports analyst Pat McAfee.

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Abhijit Singh

Abhijit Singh is a budding sports journalist with over three years of experience in the field, and a photographer capturing stories through his lens since 2018. With a background in philosophy and political science, he brings a thoughtful, analytical edge to his reporting where every word is guided by curiosity and intent. Whether he's capturing the emotion of a moment or unpacking the deeper narratives within the game, Abhijit’s work is rooted in insight and passion. When he’s not covering sports, he’s often exploring new ideas through reading, traveling or just procrastinating.