The Ultimate Clash: Inside WWE Backlash 2023 with Bad Bunny, Cody Rhodes, and the Unforgettable Battle Against Brock Lesnar!

Summary

WWE Backlash 2023 took place in Puerto Rico and showcased exciting matches with both classic wrestling stars like Brock Lesnar and rising talent like rapper Bad Bunny.

In a hard-fought match, Bianca Belair made history as Raw's women's champion, surpassing Becky Lynch's record in an incredible victory against Iyo Sky. Bringing the event to a thrilling conclusion, Cody Rhodes emerged triumphant in the main event after a brutal clash with Brock Lesnar that involved chair shots and a bloodied injury.

WWE Backlash 2023 was an exhilarating and action-packed affair, showcasing both legendary wrestling icons like Brock Lesnar and fresh faces like rapper Bad Bunny. Established in 1999, WWE Backlash is a pay-per-view wrestling event that initially emerged as a replacement for the "In Your House" shows, which were held between major WWE pay-per-views such as the Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, King of the Ring, SummerSlam, and Survivor Series. The series started with the concept of being a counterstrike to the flagship event, WrestleMania, and held its position right after WrestleMania until 2010, when it gave way to Extreme Rules. However, it made a comeback in 2016.

Being one of the primary WWE pay-per-view events, Backlash consistently delivers some of the thrilling encounters of the year, featuring wrestlers striving to defend their championship titles, rising stars eager to make a name for themselves, and former luminaries aiming to reclaim the spotlight. With its 18th installment, WWE Backlash 2023 boasts a lineup of notable wrestlers ranging from Bianca Belair and Austin Theory to Cody Rhodes. The event showcases the captivating world of kayfabe, jaw-dropping acrobatics, and captivating storylines, solidifying WWE Backlash 2023 as a highly acclaimed spectacle.

When Did WWE Backlash 2023 Air?

Bianca Belair Became RAW's Longest-Reigning Women's Champion After Defeating Iyo Sky

: WWE Backlash 2023 was held on May 6, 2023, approximately one month following WrestleMania 39. This particular event occurred at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan, Puerto Rico, marking only the second instance of a Backlash event taking place outside the United States. The initial occasion was in 2004 when the event was held in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. While the wrestling event was broadcasted via PPV, Peacock and WWE Network subscribers could also stream the matches, just as they could for any other Backlash events.

The Raw Women's Championship match at the event commenced with Bianca Belair valiantly defending her title against Iyo Sky. With both women displaying a fierce determination, the crowd found themselves divided in their support. Despite Sky's unexpected surge in popularity, fueled by the audience's enthusiastic backing, even the surprising appearance of her allies, Damage CTRL, failed to halt Belair's relentless drive. Ultimately, the seasoned wrestler executed her iconic Kiss of Death finisher, surpassing Becky Lynch's remarkable 400-day reign as the reigning champion.

Seth "Freakin" Rollins Faced Omos In Backlash And Won

Austin Theory Defended The United States Championship Against Bobby Lashley And Bronson Reed

The second match of WWE Backlash 2023 showcased a thrilling showdown between Seth "Freakin" Rollins and the formidable Nigerian giant, Omos. From the very beginning, Omos made a powerful statement by delivering a forceful kick to Rollins' chest. Known for his slower matches, Omos displayed an unprecedented level of energy and enthusiasm, much to the delight of the electrifying crowd. Despite enduring a devastating choke slam from the towering 7' 3" wrestler, Rollins showcased his resilience by executing multiple Stomps, including an impressive one from the top rope that ultimately secured his victory.

In the intense Triple Threat match for the United States Championship, Austin Theory, Bobby Lashley, and Bronson Reed battled it out. As often seen in these types of matches, two wrestlers formed an unlikely alliance to try and eliminate the stronger opponent. Theory faced the formidable duo of Lashley and Reed, who relentlessly interrupted each other's pin attempts. However, it didn't take long for every man to fight for himself. While Theory was positioned to secure the victory as the defending champion, Reed garnered overwhelming support from the passionate crowd throughout the night. Ultimately, Theory managed to hurl Lashley out of the ring and successfully pinned Reed, retaining his well-deserved title.

Rhea Ripley Defeated Zelina Vega For The SmackDown Women's Championship

Bad Bunny Fought Damian Priest In A San Juan Street Fight

: The SmackDown Women's Championship match featured Rhea Ripley, the current title holder, and Zelina Vega, WWE's sole female wrestler of Puerto Rican descent. Vega proudly entered the arena draped in the Puerto Rican flag, receiving a thunderous applause from the crowd. Initially, Ripley dominated the match, swiftly dismantling Vega. However, a sudden burst of energy from the challenger almost turned the tables. Despite this, Ripley sealed the victory with her signature Riptide slam, successfully retaining her championship. The Puerto Rican audience honored Vega with a resounding standing ovation, reflecting a heartwarming moment of national pride.

The highlight of WWE Backlash 2023 was undeniably the presence of Bad Bunny, the Puerto Rican-born rapper and actor. Initially set to commentate, much to everyone's surprise and delight, Bad Bunny ultimately found himself in the ring, going head-to-head with Damian Priest. The electrifying showdown took the form of a captivating "gimmick" San Juan Street Fight, complete with a shopping cart, various weapons, and even thrilling moments amidst the spectators. Ultimately, Bad Bunny emerged triumphant from the exhilarating brawl, leaving the audience in awe.

The Bloodline Fought In A Six-Man Tag Team Match

Bad Bunny's passion for wrestling is widely recognized and he has even been cast as the luchador superhero "El Muerto" in an upcoming Sony film. The electrifying response from the audience and the captivating charm of Bad Bunny's entrance music make this battle an absolute must-see.

At WWE Backlash 2023, the crowd was treated to a thrilling six-man tag team showdown. In one corner stood the Bloodline, a notorious family faction consisting of Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa. Their opposition? None other than the formidable trio of Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, and Matt Riddle.

The Bloodline, known for their internal conflicts, always manage to captivate the audience. Particularly intriguing is the dynamic involving Solo Sikoa, who often finds himself on the periphery during these matches. Observing from the sidelines, Sikoa hesitates to exchange high-fives or embraces with his teammates.

As the intense match unfolded, Sikoa's disagreements with the Usos resulted in a few missteps. However, he ultimately redeemed himself in a stunning fashion. Seizing the perfect opportunity, Sikoa swiftly soared beneath the ropes and unleashed the devastating Samoan Spike on Riddle, securing the victory for his team.

Cody Rhodes Defeated Brock Lesnar In The Main Event

The main event of WWE Backlash 2023 featured a heated showdown between Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar, who had recently made his return to televised wrestling. Right from the start, it was evident that Rhodes and Lesnar had a personal grudge against each other. Rhodes launched a vicious attack on Lesnar, striking him with a piece of the announcer's table, a steel chair, and the steel steps before the match even began.

Once the match officially started, Rhodes wasted no time in executing two impressive high-flying drop-kicks known as the Disaster Kick on Lesnar. However, on his third attempt, Lesnar turned the tables by countering Rhodes with a painful German Suplex.

The two competitors continued to exchange moves, with Lesnar forcefully driving Rhodes into a corner of the ring using an exposed turnbuckle, resulting in Rhodes bleeding profusely. Thankfully, the match concluded shortly after. Lesnar managed to trap Rhodes in a Kimura pin, but Rhodes managed to reverse the hold and emerge victorious.

As Lesnar left the ring, he displayed visible signs of annoyance due to his injury. Nevertheless, his performance provided an outstanding conclusion to WWE Backlash 2023.