WWE Backlash 2026 will take over Tampa’s Benchmark International Arena this Saturday. As the first major Premium Live Event following an eventful WrestleMania 42, fans can expect some surprises. Furthermore, the company has put together a loaded star with top stars like Roman Reigns, Seth “Freakin” Rollins, and Bron Breakker in key roles.
The World Heavyweight Championship will be up for grabs as Reigns, the champion, battles his little cousin, Jacob Fatu. Months of disdain and mind games will come to a head at Backlash 2026 when Rollins faces Breakker. The loveable IYO SKY will also go to war against her former mentor, Asuka.
Let’s not forget that John Cena is also scheduled to make an announcement on the show. Thus, Backlash 2026 might turn out to be a gem filled with massive twists. On that note, let’s look at 4 surprises that can happen in Tampa this Saturday.
#4. John Cena Announces the Official Date for the WWE Draft at Backlash 2026
Despite retiring from in-ring competition at Saturday Night’s Main Event last December, John Cena has maintained a reasonable connection with WWE. The 17-time World Champion hosted WrestleMania 42 and is now preparing to make a surprise announcement at Backlash.
Danhausen needs a partner to face The Miz and Kit Wilson. Given that Cena interacted with Danhausen at Mania, some feel that the Champ might be the mystery partner. However, Cena is enjoying retirement and has vowed to remain faithful to his word. Thus, it’s unlikely that he wrestles in Tampa.
Nonetheless, he could still shake the foundation of WWE with the rumored important announcement. Fans have been demanding a shake-up of the main roster for a while. The last proper WWE Draft happened two years ago, following WrestleMania XL. While the company has swapped quite a few Superstars recently, a thorough shakeup is needed.
Cena could announce the official date and location of the WWE Draft at Backlash 2026. The Champ has been involved in many such shakeups in the past. Thus, he would do a great job of hyping the concept.
