Alright wrestling fans, gather ‘round! We’re diving headfirst into a PPV that’s seen its fair share of absolute chaos and unforgettable moments. Yep, we’re talking about Backlash! This event, often positioned as the fallout from WrestleMania, has a surprisingly rich history of delivering bangers. It’s where grudges simmered and exploded, where championships changed hands in dramatic fashion, and where some truly iconic matches were born.
Why Backlash? Because it’s got that perfect blend of “what’s next?” energy and “oh no, they didn’t!” shock value. It’s the sequel that sometimes outshines the original. Plus, the name itself? Backlash. It just screams revenge and consequences, right? And who doesn’t love a good, dramatic consequence in wrestling? It’s the stuff of legends, my friends. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let’s reminisce about some of the absolute best Backlash bouts to ever grace our screens.
10. John Cena vs. Edge (Backlash 2006) - Last Man Standing Match
This one was pure intensity. John Cena and Edge, two massive stars, going at it with no rules, no count-outs, just pure devastation. The match was a brutal, back-and-forth war. Remember that spot where Edge superplexed Cena through a table? Ouch. It was a defining moment for both men, proving Cena could hang in a hardcore war and solidifying Edge’s “Rated-R Superstar” persona.
The stakes were sky-high. Cena’s WWE Championship was on the line, and Edge was desperate to prove he was the top dog. This wasn’t just about a title; it was about bragging rights and dominance. Edge was pulling out all the stops, and Cena was fighting with that signature never-say-die attitude. The 10-count spots were agonizing, making you genuinely question if they’d get back up. It was a classic for a reason.
9. Triple H vs. The Rock (Backlash 2000) - 60-Minute Iron Man Match
Okay, this is a marathon of a match. A 60-minute Iron Man match between two of the biggest names of the Attitude Era? Yes, please! The Rock and Triple H went toe-to-toe, trading falls and near-falls for an entire hour. It was a testament to their stamina and ring psychology.
The story here was epic: The Rock had just won the WWE title at WrestleMania X-Seven in a brutal match against Stone Cold, and now Triple H, who had been instrumental in the match, was getting his shot at redemption. The match itself was a chess match. Every fall was significant. Who can forget The Rock’s constant struggle to stay conscious, and Triple H’s calculated attacks? It was a masterclass in wrestling storytelling.
8. Randy Orton vs. Seth Rollins (Payback 2014) - Wait, this was Payback, not Backlash. My bad! Let's swap this out for something actually from Backlash!
Okay, my wrestling memory is clearly a bit fuzzy sometimes! Let’s correct that with a true Backlash classic!
8. Eddie Guerrero vs. Kurt Angle (Backlash 2004) - WWE Championship Match
This match is pure artistry. Eddie Guerrero, the beloved underdog, against the intense, technical machine that is Kurt Angle. The chemistry between these two was unbelievable. Eddie’s charisma and daring, Angle’s mat skills and intensity – it was a perfect storm.
The story was about Angle trying to reclaim the championship he felt was stolen, and Eddie trying to prove he was a worthy champion. The near falls were insane! You genuinely believed Eddie could win, and you also knew Angle was more than capable of snatching victory. The ankle lock submission attempts were terrifying. This match is a reminder of Eddie's incredible talent and a testament to Angle's prowess as a top-tier performer. It’s a match you can watch a hundred times and still find something new to appreciate.
7. The Undertaker vs. The Rock vs. Triple H (Backlash 2000) - Triple Threat Match
Three giants of the Attitude Era, all in one ring, for the WWE Championship? Sign me up! This match was a carnage of epic proportions. Undertaker, Rock, and Triple H – each with their own massive fanbase and championship aspirations. The sheer star power in this match is dizzying.
The dynamic was fascinating. You had the unstoppable force of Undertaker, the charismatic Peoples Champion in The Rock, and the calculating Cerebral Assassin in Triple H. They were all trying to outdo each other, and the result was a wild, unpredictable brawl. Who remembers the Rock Bottom on Undertaker through the announcer’s table? Pure mayhem! This match had everything you’d want from a main event featuring these three legends.
6. Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns vs. Seth Rollins (WrestleMania 31) - Another mistake! This was Wrestlemania 31. Backlash, people! Backlash!
My apologies again! It seems the allure of massive multi-man matches gets me every time. Let’s get back on track with a proper Backlash entry.
6. Chris Jericho vs. Chris Benoit (Backlash 2000)
Talk about a technical masterpiece! Two of the greatest technical wrestlers of their generation, going at it. Jericho and Benoit had a rivalry that was built on skill, pride, and a whole lot of unadulterated athleticism. This match was a showcase of pure wrestling talent.
These guys could tell a story with their bodies. The counters, the submissions, the sheer speed and precision – it was mesmerizing. You could feel the tension in the air as they locked up, each looking for an opening to exploit. It was a hard-fought battle, a true display of grappling prowess. This is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the technical side of professional wrestling.
5. Edge vs. Jeff Hardy (Backlash 2009) - Ladder Match for World Heavyweight Championship
Oh, the ladders! Oh, the pain! Edge and Jeff Hardy were practically made for ladder matches. Their rivalry was personal and brutal, and putting them in a ladder match for the World Heavyweight Championship was a recipe for insane spots and unforgettable moments.
Remember when Matt Hardy interfered, costing Jeff the match? That was a shocker! The high-risk moves, the desperation to climb that ladder, the thud of bodies hitting the mat – it was all there. Edge’s cunning and Hardy’s daredevil attitude clashed perfectly. This match delivered the thrills and spills we’ve come to expect from these two.
4. Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Bret Hart (WrestleMania XII) - Wait, that was WrestleMania XII! I'm supposed to be talking about Backlash! This is tougher than I thought!
Deep breaths. We're sticking to Backlash. The pressure is on! Let’s find a real gem from the event.
4. The Undertaker vs. Randy Orton (Backlash 2005)
The Phenom versus the Viper. This was a clash of legendary villains, a true test of wills. Undertaker, at this point, was still trying to rebuild his aura after a bit of a lull, and Randy Orton was the cocky, up-and-coming superstar looking to make a name for himself by conquering the Deadman.
The match itself was a slow burn, building tension with every move. Orton used every trick in the book, and Undertaker weathered the storm with his signature resilience. The interference from Bob Orton Jr. added to the drama. It was a pivotal moment for Orton, establishing him as a serious threat in the main event scene. Undertaker’s victory solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with. A solid, well-told story.
3. Eddie Guerrero vs. Christian (Backlash 2003) - WWE Championship Match
This was Eddie Guerrero in his prime, baby! The underdog champion, facing off against the opportunistic, sneering Christian. The energy in the crowd for Eddie was palpable. He was the peoples’ champion, and everyone wanted to see him succeed.
Christian, with his P.E.P.S.I. (Perfection, Excellence, Power, Superiority, Intelligence… and a bit of cheating), was the perfect foil. He used every underhanded tactic imaginable to try and take down Eddie. The storytelling was fantastic, with Eddie overcoming the odds and Christian’s cheap shots. The Frog Splash finish was pure joy for the fans. This match is a fantastic representation of Eddie’s championship reign.
2. The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin (Backlash 2000) - No Disqualification Match
Okay, now we’re talking! The Rock and Stone Cold, two of the biggest icons of the Attitude Era, in a no disqualification match for the WWE Championship? This is pure gold, people!
This match was an absolute brawl. Weapons were used, bodies were flying, and the intensity was off the charts. Vince McMahon got involved, Shane McMahon got involved, there was pandemonium! The Rock and Austin always had incredible chemistry, and this match was a perfect example of their ability to captivate an audience with sheer aggression and charisma. The visual of Austin getting hit with a Rock Bottom through a table is burned into my memory. An absolute classic from start to finish.
1. John Cena vs. Shawn Michaels (Backlash 2007)
And our number one spot goes to a match that, while perhaps not as overtly brutal as some others, was a masterclass in pacing and psychology. John Cena and Shawn Michaels, two of the biggest stars of their respective eras, clashing in a dream match scenario. The build-up was immense, and the match delivered in spades.
Michaels, in his twilight as a top-tier performer, put on a clinic. Cena, ever the resilient champion, fought tooth and nail. The near falls were agonizingly close, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats. The story was about Michaels trying to prove he could still hang with the best, and Cena wanting to solidify his legacy by beating a legend. The sheer talent on display was breathtaking. It’s a match that still holds up incredibly well and is a perfect example of why Backlash has delivered some truly unforgettable wrestling.
So there you have it! Ten incredible matches that prove Backlash isn't just an afterthought. It's a stage for epic rivalries, championship drama, and pure wrestling magic. Which ones are your favorites? Let me know! Until next time, keep those wrestling memories alive!
