Five highly anticipated returns that might transpire at WWE Backlash 2026
(Courtesy : WWE)
Major returns could happen at WWE Backlash 2026.
WWE is only days away from presenting its first post-WrestleMania 42 season Premium Live Event, WWE Backlash 2026. It will take place on May 9 in Tampa, Florida, and will feature five significant matches on the card.
Moreover, it will also see an appearance of the GOAT, John Cena. With the event shaping up to be an exciting edition of Backlash, here are five highly anticipated returns that can take place at the show.
5. Kevin Owens
Kevin Owens has been absent from WWE since January 2025 due to a neck injury. The Prizefighter did appear for John Cena’s Final Match show in the audience.
At the same time, he is seemingly still not clear about in-ring action. So, he could return in Sami Zayn’s match against Trick Williams to help his best friend beat Trick Willy and regain the United States title at WWE Backlash.
Also Read: WWE Backlash 2026: Preview, start time & where to watch
4. Shane McMahon
Danhausen is scheduled to battle The Miz and Kit Wilson with a mystery partner at WWE Backlash. Mr. Very Nice Very Evil said that his ally would be someone who loved money and could possibly have some tensions with Miz. All those signs hint towards Shane McMahon, whose return could be monumental for WWE.
3. CM Punk
Another WWE superstar who could be unveiled as Danhausen’s partner for WWE Backlash is CM Punk. The Best in the World last appeared on the RAW after WrestleMania 42 after losing his World title to Roman Reigns one night before.
Moreover, Punk is known to be a real-life close friend of Danhausen, so his return as his partner could garner a loud pop at Backlash.
2. Randy Orton
Randy Orton’s last appearance took place at WrestleMania 42 when he lost to Cody Rhodes and took him out with a punt kick afterward.
Fans had expected The Viper to get a rematch for the Undisputed WWE title after seeing him take out Rhodes. So, he could begin his path for another title shot with a thunderous return at WWE Backlash 2026.
1. Kairi Sane
Kairi Sane was among the talent released as part of WWE’s latest budget cuts. However, there has been immense support for her return with #WeWantKairi trending on social media, with fans expecting her to return soon.
This could happen at Backlash in Tampa on Saturday, very similar to R-Truth’s return a week after being let go by WWE last year.
Where and when is WWE Backlash 2026 taking place?
WWE Backlash will take place on May 9 at the Benchmark International Center in Tampa, Florida.
What matches have been announced for the show?
–World Heavyweight Championship: Roman Reigns (c) vs Jacob Fatu–United States Championship: Trick Williams (c) vs Sami Zayn-Seth Rollins vs Bron Breakker-IYO SKY vs Asuka-Danhausen & Mystery Partner vs The Miz & Kit Wilson
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Nik O Conner is a long-time fan of professional wrestling. After dropping his Engineering regular studies in 2020, he decided to pursue his passion and became a writer. Over the last few years, he has written for multiple webs bringing a lot of skills and creativity to the table.