Dave Meltzer Match Ratings WWE Backlash 2025
What did Dave Meltzer make of WWE Backlash?
On May 10, WWE headed to St Louis, Missouri, for its first Premium Live Event since WrestleMania 41.
Backlash was promoted under the slogan “One Last Time” in reference to the main event between Randy Orton and John Cena. The pair have been rivals for more than 20 years, but that came to an end in The Viper’s hometown.
After a wild finale that saw appearances from Nick Aldis and R-Truth, Cena retained the Undisputed WWE Championship via a low blow and belt shot on Orton.
The opening match of the night saw the long-awaited debut of former NJPW star Jeff Cobb. The star, who has since been re-named JC Mateo, attacked LA Knight, allowing Jacob Fatu to retain the United States Championship.
Elsewhere, there were wins for Lyra Valkyria, Dominik Mysterio, and Gunther, who beat Pat McAfee.
Dave Meltzer Match Ratings – WWE Backlash
Writing in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer gave his thoughts on the action. The United States Championship and Women’s Intercontinental Championship matches scored highest with 4.25 stars.
- Jacob Fatu (c) vs. LA Knight vs. Drew McIntyre vs. Damian Priest – United States Championship ****1/4
- Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Becky Lynch – Women’s Intercontinental Championship ****1/4
- Dominik Mysterio (c) vs. Penta – Intercontinental Championship ***1/2
- Gunther vs. Pat McAfee ***1/4
- John Cena (c) vs. Randy Orton – Undisputed WWE Championship ***1/4