WWE has announced that Charlotte Flair is out of action indefinitely. The company is citing injuries she sustained at WrestleMania Backlash.

Flair put the SmackDown Women’s Championship on the line against Ronda Rousey in an “I Quit” match at WWE’s latest premium live event.

It was a very physical match that included kendo sticks, chairs, and a brawl in the crowd. Ultimately, Rousey forced her opponent to say “I Quit” with an armbar, utilizing a chair as leverage.

Charlotte Flair’s Time Off

For those wondering, Charlotte’s “injuries” are part of a storyline to write her off television.

Charlotte is taking scheduled time off to prepare for her wedding to AEW star Andrade El Idolo. The wedding takes place later this year. The two have been together since 2019.

The wedding planning, the ceremony itself and the honeymoon will keep Charlotte on the sidelines, but don’t expect this to be the end of “The Queen.”

Charlotte Flair has not ben shy about her longterm goals inside the squared circle. She recently expressed her desire to surpass her father’s record for the most world title reigns. She’s held the Women’s world title 13 times. That is three shy of her father’s world title record of 16.

Cody Rhodes has said he is not interested in facing Seth Rollins again after defeating the former multiple-time world champion at WrestleMania Backlash.

In the opening match of last night’s Premium Live Event, Rhodes defeated Rollins with a roll-up pin and a handful of tights. It was a bit of tit-for-tat on Cody’s part as Seth had attempted to use the tights for leverage first.

This is Rhodes’ second televised victory over Rollins since returning to WWE, after beating “The Architect” at WrestleMania 38.

In a post-match interview shared by WWE, Rhodes said that he is moving forward and does not plan on having another match with Rollins.

“I think we can walk away on this one. Seth is an amazing, amazing Superstar wrestler, I can’t wait to see what he does next. Whatever he does now, good luck. I’m moving forward.”

Cody Rhodes

Rhodes concluded by wishing Happy Mother’s Day to his mother, his wife, and all the mothers in the world.

After another win over @WWERollins, @CodyRhodes is ready to move forward and chase his championship dream. #WMBacklash pic.twitter.com/sKu8DmBjC3

— WWE (@WWE) May 9, 2022

What’s next for Cody Rhodes?

Since coming back to WWE, Cody Rhodes has feuded primarily with Seth Rollins but has his eyes set on championship gold.

In a promo on the post-WrestleMania 38 episode of Raw, Rhodes said he plans on becoming a WWE World Champion, fulfilling a promise to his late father “The American Dream” Dusty Rhodes.

In the post-WrestleMania Backlash interview, Rhodes again made his goals clear.

“After the match, I did the generic symbol for wanting the belt – because it’s real. That’s what I want.”

Cody Rhodes

Rhodes is expected to challenge for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at some point in the future, which is currently held by Roman Reigns.

• Cody Rhodes Explains What Held Him Back In AEW (April 2022)

Just ahead of the WrestleMania Backlash event, Charlotte is already prepared to accuse Ronda Rousey of cheating.

Charlotte will be defending her WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship against Rousey tonight (May 8). The action will be held inside the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island.

• 

Charlotte Ready To Take An L?

Appearing on WWE’s The Bump, “The Queen” let it be known that if she can’t successfully retain her gold tonight then it must be due to something nefarious on “Rowdy’s” part (h/t Fightful).

“I have nothing left to prove. I already beat Ronda on the grandest stage. I was the first female to beat her in a singles competition. If she wins or if she has me say I quit, it’s because she cheated.

“I don’t know, it’s hard [to rank my different accomplishments.] They’re also different. I mean, beating Asuka’s streak at WrestleMania 34 was a huge accomplishment. Main eventing WrestleMania 35. But I think beating Ronda just cemented that I’m the top woman here. So every accomplishment has a different feel to it. It was a big one.”

Rousey was indeed pinned by the SmackDown Women’s Champion at WrestleMania 38.

“The Queen” had tapped out to an armbar but the referee never saw it. She hit Rousey with a big boot as she was trying to wake the referee up for the three-count.

Keep it locked on the SEScoops homepage for coverage of WrestleMania Backlash.

WWE reportedly never had plans for a tag team title unification match at WrestleMania Backlash.

When The Usos first started their feud with RK-Bro, it was centered around trying to unify the Raw and SmackDown Tag Team Championships. Roman Reigns specifically gave Jimmy and Jey an order to lay claim to the Raw tag team gold.

While the stage was set for The Usos vs. RK-Bro at WrestleMania Backlash, Reigns interrupted the contract signing. Randy Orton and Riddle were ambushed, and the contract was destroyed. Drew McIntyre then hit the ring and sent Reigns packing with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex.

Now, it’ll be a non-title six-man tag team match. The Bloodline will take on McIntyre and RK-Bro.

Title Unification Never In The Cards

• 

Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter reports that WWE never had the intent of booking a tag team title unification match. Simply put, WWE didn’t have a challenger lined up for Reigns at the WrestleMania Backlash event.

It had been reported previously that WWE didn’t want to rush a Reigns vs. McIntyre program.

WrestleMania Backlash will take place inside the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island on May 8. Here is what the lineup looks like just a couple of days away from the event:

• The Bloodline vs. Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro
• WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship: Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey (“I Quit” Match)
• Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins
• Edge vs. AJ Styles
• Bobby Lashley vs. Omos
• Happy Corbin vs. Madcap Moss

WWE WrestleMania Backlash 2022 takes place this Sunday from the the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island.

SEScoops staff members Andrew Ravens, Joey G and I got together to provide an expert prediction for each match on the card.

You can also check out the current WrestleMania Backlash Betting Odds, which are typically quite accurate in predicting winners.

WrestleMania Backlash Predictions

For your convenience, you can click below to jump to a specific match:

• Madcap Moss vs. Happy Corbin
• Bobby Lashley vs. Omos
• Edge vs. AJ Styles
• Drew McIntyre and RK-Bro vs. The Bloodline
• I Quit Match: Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Ronda Rousey
• Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins

Madcap Moss vs. Happy Corbin

Joey G: Corbin and Moss have been one of the steadier heel acts on the WWE main roster for the last few months so I personally don’t see the benefit of them fighting with each other. However, since the match is happening the person who can benefit the most from a win is Moss as Corbin can always blame some outside force for his failures. The lingering question I have is what’s next for Moss when he does win? (Pick: Madcap Moss)

Andrew Ravens: A feud that no one cares about and a match that doesn’t mean much. I guess you could make the case that a win over Corbin means something for Moss, who is still trying to find his footing here. It makes sense for him to win so I’ll side with the babyface. (Pick: Madcap Moss)

Michael Reichlin: Baron Corbin is a reliable utility player for WWE, but Madcap Moss clearly has more upside. Madcap finds himself flying solo after after Corbin recently turned on him. A loss would set him back considerably. Moss avenges the betrayal and moves on to the next chapter of his career. (Pick: Madcap Moss)

Winner Prediction: Madcap Moss

Bobby Lashley vs. Omos

Michael Reichlin: Lashley got the clean win at WrestleMania 38. Since then, MVP turned on his former client and sided with the giant. Much like the opening match, I think this is a case of the veteran putting over the rising star. Lashley is still going strong at 45, but the 27-year old 7-footer has the brighter future. (Pick: Omos)

Andrew Ravens: I was surprised when Lashley beat Omos at WrestleMania 38 so it only makes sense for Omos to win here and likely thanks to outside interference by MVP to make Lashley stay strong as that is what WWE is attempting to do in this feud, which doing so for both guys at the same time isn’t the easiest thing to do. (Pick: Omos)

Joey G: Like the Edge and Styles matchup there seems to be more to this story than just this bout. Omos will get a big win over a former WWE champion, and MVP, who will most definitely get involved, can claim that he chose the right horse. If it were me I would be grooming Omos for an I.C. title or U.S. title run, but a rubber match with Lashley seems more likely. (Pick: Omos)

Consensus: Omos

AJ Styles vs. Edge

Andrew Ravens: I can see this going either way as Edge already has a win over AJ and it seems we’re going for a trilogy. AJ as the babyface should’ve won their first encounter and really needs to do so here if they want to keep the feud going so Styles wins, but perhaps it’s by DQ thanks to outside interference by Damian Priest. (Pick: AJ Styles)

Michael Reichlin: I keep going back and forth on this one. Both men have interesting programs going on, with Edge being paired with Damian Priest and AJStyles aligning with Bullet Club alum Finn Balor. I say Edge gets the win with help from Priest, to solidify the threat of Edge having backup. (Pick: Edge)

Joey G: Traditional WWE booking tells me that Styles wins this round so they can go for a third time on a bigger show somewhere down the line. My guess would also be that Styles recent alliance with fellow Bullet Club alumni Finn Balor means that a tag team match against Edge and Priest is on the table as well. Regardless of who wins, this won’t be the final chapter. (Pick: AJ Styles)

Consensus: AJ Styles

Drew McIntyre and RK-Bro vs. The Bloodline

Andrew Ravens: A lot of things have changed with everyone involved here from what was originally planned. I don’t see this being the main event so the babyfaces don’t necessarily have to go over if that’s what Vince McMahon doesn’t want. Have McIntyre pin one of The Usos to keep his feud going with Reigns and who knows what WWE does with RK-Bro going forward if they’re not unifying the tag team titles with SmackDown. (Pick: McIntyre and RK-Bro)

Joey G: Really sad we didn’t get a Nakamura and Reigns solo matchup on this card as it seemed to be set up a few weeks ago, and would pay off Nakamura earning that title shot last year. With that said…this six-man tag will be the show-stealer, and will certainly plant the seed for the eventual McIntyre and Reigns ultimate showdown. Considering how dominant the Tribal Chief and the Usos have been, I think the Bloodline go down in this one. (Pick: RK-Bro and Drew McIntyre)

Michael Reichlin: Originally, when this was going to be a tag team title unification match, I had The Usos getting the win. Now that Reigns and McIntyre have joined the fray, I think the babyfaces take this one. Most people are probably looking at Rollins vs. Cody as having the most Match of the Night potential, but dont’ sleep on the 6-man tag. (Pick: Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro)

Consensus: Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro

SmackDown Women’s Championship: Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Ronda Rousey – I Quit Match

Andrew Ravens: Rousey will get the title here. WWE surprised everyone by not having the title change happen at WrestleMania and adding in this stipulation, it’s nearly a lock that Rousey walks out with the title. What’s next is the interesting part as WWE could run back a third match or have them go in their separate ways. Rousey should be the champion and will be and WWE can revisit this match later this year for one of their stadium shows. (Pick: Ronda Rousey)

Michael Reichlin: Quite simply, Rousey is not losing an I Quit match. She’s just not saying those words. I was surprised that she came up short at WrestleMania, but now is the time for her to reach the top of the mountain once again. I think Charlotte Flair will bring her A-game, to soften the impact of her submitting to Rousey, but this one was “new champion” written all over it. (Pick: Ronda Rousey)

Joey G: One of the biggest surprises at WrestleMania 38 was Charlotte squeaking out a win over Rousey, as Rousey’s Royal Rumble triumph seemed to indicate that she was getting the title at the Show of Shows. While Rousey’s fan support has certainly lessened, I think she gets that big moment here, and begins a dominant reign on SmackDown. I don’t think a third match between these two is necessary, but don’t be surprised if one happens. (Pick: Ronda Rousey)

Consensus: Ronda Rousey

Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins

Michael Reichlin: This one already has the big fight feel. Rollins has been fantastic as of late. Cody is still riding high since arriving at WrestleMania. I hope this match is the main event of WrestleMania Backlash. I expect a dramatic match, with the American Nightmare coming out on top. Cody’s got a date with destiny (Roman Reigns) and they’re not going to saddle him with a loss and 50/50 booking this early into his run. The storyline winning the title Dusty never did is too good to pass up. They’re keeping him strong for the foreseeable future. (Pick: Cody Rhodes)

Joey G: If there is one guy other than Roman Reigns who should not be losing right now it’s the American Nightmare. Rhodes is more organically over with the WWE Universe than any other star on the roster, and the long-term story of him becoming a world champion is easily laid out in front of them. Rollins has been great, but he can afford to lose again before moving on to something else. (Pick: Cody Rhodes)

Andrew Ravens: Rhodes should go over here as a loss doesn’t hurt Rollins and he can talk his way out of it. Rhodes is clearly the top babyface on the Raw roster and it’s just a matter of time before he’s in the title hunt. Keep Cody strong as he is super over with the fans right now. (Pick: Cody Rhodes)

Consensus: Cody Rhodes

There you have it. Hit up the comments section and let us know what you think about our picks for WrestleMania Backlash.

WrestleMania Backlash 2022 is the next premium live event offering by WWE.

This is the 17th installment of this event, which was previously known as simply, Backlash. As the name implies, WrestleMania Backlash will feature a continuation of many feuds and storylines from WrestleMania 38.

Much of the card features WrestleMania rematches, but that doesn’t mean this is a show to skip. With 7 matches confirmed, WrestleMania Backlash is shaping up to be a show worth your time.

• Wrestlemania Backlash Betting Odds
• WWE WrestleMania Backlash Predictions

WWE WrestleMania Backlash 2022 Card

Here’s the current match card for WWE WrestleMania Backlash 2022:

The Bloodline vs. Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro

This match was originally scheduled to be a tag title unification match between SmackDown Tag Team Champions, The Usos and Raw Tag Team Champions, RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Riddle).

Roman Reigns and Drew McIntyre were later added to the match, making it a six-man tag.

WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship: Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey (“I Quit” Match)

Ronda Rousey challenged Charlotte Flair for the SmackDown Women’s title at WrestleMania, but came up short. Flair got the win after a ref bump and Rousey getting distracted. At WrestleMania Backlash, the only way to win is to make your opponent surrender.

Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins

Seth Rollins lost clean to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania, but Rhodes had the element of surprise on his side. The American Nightmare knew who to train for, while Rollins’ opponent remained a mystery until the last moment. Rollins seeks to even the score at Backlash, while Rhodes aims to prove his WrestleMania victory was no fluke.

Edge vs. AJ Styles

Edge and AJ Styles had a great match at WrestleMania was well-received. This one should be no different. The Phenomenal One hopes to score a win here, but Edge now has Damien Priest at his side.

Bobby Lashley vs Omos

Lashley got the surprise victory over Omos at WrestleMania. However, there has been a significant change since then. MVP has since turned on Lashley and aligned himself with the giant, Omos. Could MVP be the difference maker at WrestleMania Backlash?

Happy Corbin vs. Madcap Moss

Former friends are now enemies. Happy Corbin once considered Madcap Moss his right-hand man. Corbin blames moss for his loss to Drew McIntyre at WrestleMania and looks to break free of him once and for all at WrestleMania Backlash.

We will update this page as more matches are announced.

When is WrestleMania Backlash ?

WrestleMania Backlash takes place Sunday, May 8th from Providence, Rhode Island at Dunkin’ Donuts Center.

The premium live event starts at 8pm ET / 5pm PT. WWE typically airs a “kickoff” pre-show one hour before the main card begins.

How to Watch

WWE WrestleMania Backlash 2022 will stream live on Peacock in the United States and on the WWE Network internationally.

WWE WrestleMania Backlash betting odds are now available, courtesy of BetOnline.ag.

The latest WWE premium live event goes down Sunday, May 8th from Providence, Rhode Island at Dunkin Donuts Center.

As the name implies, WWE WrestleMania Backlash 2022 features mostly rematches from WrestleMania 38.

With just a few days to go, here are the current WrestleMania Backlash betting odds:

• Madcap Moss is the favorite (-200) over Happy Corbin (+135)
• Omos is favored (-300) to beat Bobby Lashley (+200)
• Edge is a slight favorite (-145) to defeat AJ Styles (+100)
• Ronda Rousey is favored (-700) to beat SmackDown Women’s champion Charlotte Flair (+360)
• Cody Rhodes is the favorite (-325) against Seth Rollins (+220)
• Drew McIntyre & RK-Bro are favorites (-250) over The Bloodline (+165)

We’ll update this article on Saturday to reflect any late changes in the betting activity.

• WWE WrestleMania Backlash Predictions

WWE has announced a big change to the WrestleMania Backlash main event. It’s no longer a title unification match as originally announced.

Roman Reigns had defeated Brock Lesnar to become the Undisputed world champion in WWE at WrestleMania 38 earlier this month.

After this, WWE had confirmed a unification match for the tag team titles as well. They had announced that The Usos will face RK Bro at WrestleMania Backlash in a winner takes all title unification match.

This week’s episode of SmackDown featured a contract signing for this match. However, a brawl broke out between the two teams before the match could be made official.

Roman Reigns came out to help his cousins. The Bloodline beat down the Raw tag team champions and Reigns tore up the contract. Drew McIntyre’s music then hit and he came down to even the odds.

Paul Heyman was seen talking to Adam Pearce backstage later in the show. Heyman was trying to persuade Pearce to change the WrestleMania Backlash bout.

WWE has since confirmed that the match has indeed been altered. Now it will see RK Bro teaming with McIntyre to take on The Bloodline in a six men tag match at the upcoming Premium Live Event.

• Wrestlemania Backlash Betting Odds

WWE has announced yet another rematch for the WrestleMania Backlash PPV. They have confirmed that Bobby Lashley will be competing against Omos once again at the upcoming show.

The All-Mighty had been challenged for an arm-wrestling match by the giant on this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw from Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, TN.

Lashley won this match but Omos attacked him afterward. The former Raw underground star was being instructed by MVP.

Both MVP and his new client were interviewed by Kevin Patrick backstage later in the show. The former US champion said that Bobby failed to see how the arm-wrestling match was a contest about brains and not brawn.

He went on to reveal that Omos is challenging the former WWE champion to a rematch at WrestleMania Backlash premium live event.

While Bobby Lashley did not appear on the show again, WWE confirmed during Raw Talk that this Mania rematch will be taking place at the upcoming show.

• WrestleMania Backlash 2022 Match Card, Date & Time, How to Watch

WrestleMania Backlash will be taking place from the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island on Sunday, May 8.

We now know who Roman Reigns will be feuding with next.

After a couple of weeks of stalling, many questioned whether or not Reigns would even be featured on the WrestleMania Backlash card. In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer reported that the “Tribal Chief” will indeed be headlining the May 8th premium live event.

At Friday’s WWE SmackDown tapings, Reigns re-started his feud with Drew McIntyre. The two had a stare-down and came to blows.

The angle was taped for next week’s SmackDown, which airs on April 29th.

The tapings were held after the April 22nd edition of SmackDown went off the air. This was done because WWE is headed overseas for the post-WrestleMania European tour beginning on April 28.

• Wrestlemania Backlash Betting Odds

Here’s fan video of Roman Reigns & Drew McIntyre’s confrontation at Friday’s SmackDown tapings, courtesy of Twitter user @ShiningPolaris:

This is pretty cool. Drew McIntyre and Roman Reigns 😬 #bloodline #wwe #smackdown pic.twitter.com/hP3ZtZ1U0w

— Christine (@ShiningPolaris) April 23, 2022

Speculation on whether or not Roman Reigns will have a match at WrestleMania Backlash can now end.

There is no denying that Roman Reigns is WWE’s top priority when it comes to talent. While he has long held a main event spot, his stock took off thanks to the “Tribal Chief” gimmick. Reigns is fresh off a victory over Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 38 to become the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Despite the momentum, Reigns hasn’t exactly had a big presence the past couple of weeks. He appeared on Raw following WrestleMania and said he’d announce his next move on SmackDown. His move ended up being a demand for The Usos to challenge RKBro in an attempt to become the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions.

• 

Roman Reigns-WrestleMania Backlash

Reigns didn’t appear on the April 15 episode of SmackDown and it’s left many speculating that he may not have a match at WrestleMania Backlash.

That hunch can be put to rest. Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer reports that Roman Reigns will be in the main event of WrestleMania Backlash. Meltzer suspects an angle will be done on the April 22 episode of SmackDown.

Some felt that a program with Shinsuke Nakamura would be next since Nakamura confronted The Bloodline on the April 8 episode of SmackDown and ate superkicks from The Usos for his efforts.

There is no word on who Reigns’ WrestleMania Backlash opponent will be at this time.

• Wrestlemania Backlash Betting Odds

Another rematch has been announced for the WrestleMania Backlash event. WWE has confirmed that AJ Styles will be facing Edge once again at the show.

This week’s episode of Monday Night Raw saw the Rated R Superstar and his new associate Damian Priest in a dark backstage segment. He issued a challenge to Styles.

Sarah Schreiber interviewed the Phenomenal One in the locker room. He accepted the challenge. The room filled with lightning after he agreed to the WrestleMania Backlash match. AJ then told Schreiber to leave for her safety.

The lights went out and Edge and Priest were surrounding Styles when they came back. The duo attacked the former world champion and they stood tall to end the segment.

AJ Styles and Edge originally faced off in a match during the night two of WrestleMania 38. Edge won this match after Priest distracted his opponent.

The previous match between Styles and Edge was praised by fans. Though many believed that it could have been better. The two will now be looking to tell an even better story in their second encounter.

This isn’t the only rematch announced for the upcoming Premium Live Event. Seth Rollins will also be facing his Mania opponent Cody Rhodes once again at the show.

• WrestleMania Backlash 2022 Match Card, Date & Time, How to Watch

The Raw and SmackDown tag team championships will be unified at WrestleMania Backlash. It will be “Winners Take All” when RK-Bro battles The Usos on May 8th.

Last week, Roman Reigns ordered The Usos to bring the Raw tag titles ‘home’ to The Bloodline. The Usos paid a visit to Monday’s Raw, while Randy Orton & Riddle showed up on Friday’s SmackDown.

RK-Bro vs. The Usos is the fourth confirmed match on the WrestleMania Backlash 2022 match card.

The teams are sure to have a great match next month. Ahead of the premium live event, the teams will square off against each other at WWE’s upcoming European tour.

Bloodline leader Roman Reigns unified the WWE Championship and the Universal Championship by defeating Brock Lesnar in the main event of WrestleMania 38. WWE has yet to formally announce how the “unification” will unfold. Reigns (and Paul Heyman) are still carrying around both belts.

Watch The Usos and RK-Bro go face-to-face on SmackDown to set up their championship unification match at WrestleMani Backlash:

• Wrestlemania Backlash Betting Odds

Brock Lesnar was recently pulled from WrestleMania Backlash advertisements earlier this week, leading many to believe he had been yanked from the card.

However, according to a report from Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Lesnar was never actually booked for the show. Meltzer chalked everything up to a “different kind of false advertising” that WWE usually does. The report added that this is not a situation where WWE changed its mind and decided to pull “The Beast” from the show.

WWE apparently knew Lesnar wasn’t ever going to be at WrestleMania Backlash, but decided to advertise him anyway. It should be noted that, as of this writing, WWE is still advertising Lesnar for the upcoming Money In The Bank show from the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, July 2.

Brock Lesnar dropped the WWE Championship to Roman Reigns in the main event of Night Two of WrestleMania 38. Now, Reigns rules as both WWE Champion and Universal Champion, appearing on both SmackDown Live and Monday Night RAW. There’s currently no news on whether or not WWE plans for Lesnar and Reigns to meet again somewhere down the line. For now, it seems like Lesnar won’t be getting a rematch anytime soon.

Aside from a potential rematch, there’s no news on Lesnar’s WWE future at all aside from WWE advertising him for Money In The Bank. It will be interesting to see what’s next for Lesnar now that he’s seemingly out of the World Title picture for the time being.

Brock Lesnar might not get his rematch with Roman Reigns for the WWE Championship after all.

Lesnar dropped his WWE Title to Reigns in the main event of Night Two of WrestleMania 38 in Dallas, Texas earlier this month. While WWE WrestleMania Backlash is usually supposed to be focused around WrestleMania rematches, “The Beast” might not be on the show at all. Initially, Lesnar was advertised for both WrestleMania Backlash and Money In The Bank later this year.

Although he was still advertised for both shows shortly after WrestleMania, now, WWE has updated their events page, and Lesnar is no longer being advertised for Backlash. As of this writing, Lesnar is still being advertised for Money In The Bank, which is slated to go down from the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, July 2.

It remains to be seen what’s next for Lesnar in regards to his professional wrestling career. There are currently no reports as to whether or not a rematch between he and Reigns is even on the table creatively. Currently, Reigns is on both Monday Night RAW and SmackDown Live, now holding the WWE and Universal Championships. He seem to be focused on accumulating as much gold as possible for The Bloodline, urging The Usos, already the SmackDown Live Tag Team Champions, to unify the Tag Team Titles with RAW Tag Champs RK-Bro.

It will be interesting to see who WWE decides to pair Reigns with for the WrestleMania Backlash event with Brock Lesnar now seemingly being pulled. WrestleMania Backlash will go down live from the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island on Sunday, May 8.

Sonya Deville has stepped up as the first challenger to new Raw Women’s Champion, Bianca Belair. Deville will get her title shot at WrestleMania Backlash on May 8th.

The EST of WWE regained the title from Becky Lynch at WrestleMania. At Monday’s Raw, she made short work of Zelina Vega. After the match, Deville came out to present Belair with a contract for her next title defense.

Deville hyped up the mystery opponent and called for a drum roll and as part of the elaborate introduction. She proceeded she proceeded to attack Belair from behind, revealing herself to be the #1 contender for the Raw women’s title.

Later in the show, Deville’s colleague Adam Pearce approached her backstage and accused her of abusing her power as an authority figure. Deville brushed off the comment and promised to shock the world by winning the championship.

On Wednesday’s episode of WWE’s The Bump, the match was made official. Sonya Deville vs. Bianca Belair has been signed as one of the top matches for WrestleMania Backlash 2022.

Bianca Belair Ready for Sonya Deville

Backstage correspondent Sarah Schreiber caught up with Bianca Belair after Sonya Deville’s attack at Raw.

Belair said she “stays ready” for challenges like this.

“I stay ready, so I don’t have to get ready, and while Sonya Deville has been wearing suits and making matches for a year, I’ve been wearing titles and making history. So, let’s do it,” Belair said.

The WrestleMania Backlash match card is taking shape. Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins has been signed for the event.

At Monday’s Raw, Cody Rhodes battled The Miz in his first Raw match in six years. Rhodes picked up the victory, with Rollins watching from ringside.

After the match, Rollins hit the ring and issued a challenge. Rollins wants a WrestleMania rematch at WWE’s next premium live event. Rhodes accepted.

WWE has confirmed the match is set for WrestleMania Backlash on May 8th.

In a backstage interview that took place at Raw, Rhodes explained why he’s “more than ready” to battle Rollins one more time.

The American Nightmare says he can “absolutely” defeat Rollins again. He wouldn’t have accepted Rollins’ challenge if he wasn’t 100% confident in his abilities.

Cody said, “this is his house” just like WrestleMania was Rollins’ house. He has no problem being the outsider and he’s ready to get pushed to his limits.

WWE is setting the stage for more championships to be unified in the near future.

Universal Champion Roman Reigns defeated WWE Champion Brock Lesnar in the main event of WrestleMania 38 in a Winner Takes All Championship Unification Match.

In the main event segment of Friday’s SmackDown, The Bloodline leader dropped a bombshell. After consolidating power at the very top of WWE’s singles divisions, Reigns declared it’s time The Usos do the same with the tag titles.

Reigns said he wants The Usos to go to Raw and bring him the Raw tag team championships, currently held by Rated RK-Bro.

“The Bloodline’s gonna have all the gold soon.”

– Roman Reigns

"It's time that we unify the Tag Team Championships as well."#SmackDown #TheBloodline @WWERomanReigns @WWEUsos @HeymanHustle pic.twitter.com/7uikk4Nl4N

— WWE (@WWE) April 9, 2022

The Usos expected at Monday’s Raw to kick off a program with Randy Orton and Riddle. In addition to the Usos’s quest to capture the Raw tag titles, Cody Rhodes vs. The Miz is also advertised for the show.

WWE has not yet confirmed if or when this tag title unification match will take place. However, the company’s next premium live event is a month away and the company is not known for setting up matches months in advance. At this time, there’s a strong possibility we will see The Usos vs. Rated RK-Bro at WrestleMania Backlash on Sunday, May 8th.

• WrestleMania Backlash 2022 Match Card, Date & Time, How to Watch

Ronda Rousey is demanding an “I Quit” match against Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania Backlash.

The Baddest Woman on the Planet made a surprise WWE return in January at the Royal Rumble. She won the 2022 Women’s Royal Rumble and went on to challenge Flair for the Raw Women’s Championship at WrestleMania. She came up short and The Queen retained.

Rousey made her first WWE TV appearance since WrestleMania at Friday’s edition of Smackdown on Fox. Rousey came to the ring and told the WWE Universe that she won’t make any excuses for her loss at WrestleMania. However, she won’t be satisfied until she dethrones Charlotte Flair as the new Raw Women’s Champion.

Rousey demanded a rematch against Charlotte Flair at the next WWE premium live event, WrestleMania Backlash. She wants it to be an “I Quit” match.

Flair appeared on the big screen and denied Rousey’s demand. She told told Rousey, “Get to the back of the line, bitch.”

Later in the show, Adam Pearce said the rematch between Rousey and Flair is in the works. WWE confirmed the match on Saturday.

The WrestleMania Backlash 2022 premium live event takes place Sunday, May 8th and streams live on Peacock and the WWE Network.

• WrestleMania Backlash 2022 Match Card, Date & Time, How to Watch

Things took a rather unique turn at Wrestlemania Backlashlast night. The scheduled lumberjack match between Damian Priest and the Miz put a spin on things but using zombies to surround the ring.

This was a promotional event to support WWE alumni Dave Batista’s new movie, Army of the Dead. The move was a strange one and certainly caught a lot of fans off guard, however.  The reaction to the event put Twitter into a spin, with people appearing to either love or hate the gimmick.

Even the star of the movie himself seems less than impressed with things after replying to one of the many Tweets sent in his direction during the show.

https://twitter.com/DaveBautista/status/1394118646822227969

Given the matches on the Wrestlemania Backlash card, using the lumberjack match made the most sense. However, these things are not put together on the spur of the moment, and you can’t help but think a better match could have been set. Especially given the effort that went into the zombies and the way everybody ringside sold the invasion.

No joke, zombies have taken over #WMBacklash and everyone is 100% reacting as though these are real zombies sent by @DaveBautista and I remember why I love pro wrestling so much. https://t.co/RZXHQrapEK

— arune singh (@arune) May 17, 2021

When you look at WWE programming right now there are two names that instantly come to mind when planning something like this.

Alexa Bliss and Bray Wyatt are mainstay characters, both of whom have a supernatural presence. The way their relationship ended at Wrestlemania this year would have provided the perfect moment for them to come head-to-head. At the very least provided a good backdrop for The Fiend to make a Wrestlemania Backlash return.

You must applaud WWE for their efforts, and it certainly breaks up the monotony of recent programming. However, a little more thought into the placement of the zombies might have seen a more positive and less divisive response.

WWE RAW aired live from the ThunderDome. Braun Stowman teamed up with Drew McIntyre to begin the show but wound up facing McIntyre in the main event. If Strowman won the match, he would be added to the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania Backlash.

RAW Results (4/26)

1. Mace & T-Bar def. Braun Strowman & Drew McIntyre
2. New Day & Damian Priest def. The Miz, Jaxson Ryker, Elias
3. Riddle & Randy Orton def. Cedric Alexander & Shelton Benjamin
4. Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler, Rhea Ripley def. Naomi, Lana, Asuka
5. Charlotte Flair def. Mandy Rose
6. Braun Strowman def. Drew McIntyre to earn his way into the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania Backlash

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Strowman Attacked McIntyre

Braun Strowman challenged Mace and T-Bar in a Handicap match to begin the show. Strowman launched T-Bar to the corner and beat him down. Braun knocked Mace off the ring apron and hit T-Bar with a splash. Mace tagged in and attacked Braun from behind.

Mace unloaded several strikes to Braun’s midsection and then leveled him with a kick to the face. Mace and T-Bar then brought Strowman to the corner and took turns stomping on him until the referee called for the bell. Mace and T-Bar kept attacking Strowman until Drew McIntyre rushed the ring. Drew and Strowman Clotheslined Mace and T-Bar to the outside as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Mace & T-Bar faced McIntyre & Strowman in a tag team match. Mace and T-Bar isolated McIntyre in the corner and took turns stomping on him. Mace connected with a slam and went for the cover but McIntyre was able to kick out at two.

McIntyre battled back and tagged in Strowman. T-Bar tagged in and Strowman greeted him with a massive shoulder tackle. Braun went for a Spear but T-Bar got out of the way and Strowman crashed into the ring post. McIntyre tagged in and hit T-Bar with a Neckbreaker.

McIntyre climbed to the top rope and leveled T-Bar with a Flying Clothesline. Drew hit an awesome Future Shock DDT but Mace broke up the cover at two. Drew accidentally hit Strowman with a Clothesline outside the ring. T-Bar threw McIntyre into the barricade and got back into the ring at the count of nine. McIntyre didn’t make it and Mace & T-Bar won via countout. After the match, Braun Strowman got pissed off and planted McIntyre with a Running Powerslam. It was later announced that Strowman will face McIntyre in the main event. If Braun won the match he would be added to the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania Backlash.

"If you beat @DMcIntyreWWE, you're added to the match.' – @ScrapDaddyAP

If @BraunStrowman wins tonight it will be a Triple Threat Match for the @WWE Championship at WrestleMania Backlash! pic.twitter.com/YuTgD1wXfN

— WWE on FOX (@WWEonFOX) April 27, 2021

.@DMcIntyreWWE just GOT THESE HANDS on #WWERaw courtesy of @BraunStrowman! pic.twitter.com/BgnmbCMPX9

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

New Day & Damian Priest Picked Up A Win

The Miz and John Morrison came to the ring for an episode of Miz TV. Miz promoted his documentary on the network and his reality TV show following RAW. Elias and Ryker joined Miz and Morrison in the ring. Elias strummed his guitar as Miz said that they are here in honor of Bad Bunny selling out his tour in a couple minutes. The Miz took full credit for Bad Bunny’s success and Morrison complained about Bad Bunny not offering them tickets.

Miz and Morrison said that they have their own concert and Elias called them geniuses. Elias dedicated the performance to Shane McMahon and played an acoustic version of “Hey Hey Hop Hop”. Damian Priest interrupted and joked about Miz losing to Bad Bunny at WrestleMania.

Damian was joined by New Day and Woods brought a guitar case with him. Priest and New Day then opened the guitar case and revealed a bunch of tomatoes. They then hurled the tomatoes at Miz, Morrison, Elias, and Ryker as RAW went to a commercial break.

Elias, Ryker. and The Miz faced New Day & Damian Priest in a 6-man tag team match. Ryker hit Woods with a Body Slam and went for the cover but Xavier was able to kick out a two. Elias tagged in and hit Woods with an uppercut. Woods connected with a forearm to the face for a near fall and then tripped up The Miz when he tagged in.

Kofi tagged in and hit Miz with a Bulldog for a two count. Woods tagged in and hit an Elbow Drop for a two count. Damian Priest and Jaxson Ryker then locked up in the middle of the ring. Ryker applied a Headlock but Priest escaped and hit a Dropkick. Ryker went for a kick but Priest blocked it.

Kingston tagged in and Clotheslined Elias out of the ring. Back in the ring, Kofi hit a Crossbody on Elias for a near fall. When RAW returned from a break, The Miz unloaded several punches to Kofi’s face. John Morrison then smooshed a tomato in Kingston’s face as Miz distracted the referee.

Hope @TrueKofi likes ???#WWERaw @TheRealMorrison pic.twitter.com/XMNDDRAEOq

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 27, 2021

Elias tagged in and got Kofi in a Headlock. Elias then connected with a forearm to the face for a two count. Kofi spent the next several minutes getting his ass kicked until finally he hit The Miz with an SOS. Damian tagged in and hit Elias with a Clothesline for a two count.

Priest climbed to the top rope and hit a kick to the face but Miz broke up the cover. Xavier leaped of the top rope but Elias caught him with a knee to the face for a two count. Kofi hit Ryker with a Dropkick off the top rope for a two count. Priest flipped onto Miz and Morrison outside the ring as Woods rolled up Ryker for the pinfall victory.

? TARGET ACQUIRED.@ArcherOfInfamy @TrueKofi & @AustinCreedWins gets the win on #WWERaw! pic.twitter.com/NfZwrD8k42

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Sonya Deville Lifted Charlotte’s Suspension

Sonya Deville let Charlotte Flair into the ThunderDome tonight despite her suspension for attacking an official last week.

Uhhhhhhh … @SonyaDevilleWWE is here and just let @MsCharlotteWWE into the #WWEThunderDome?! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/ASt3vghBVU

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Charlotte joined Sonya and the referee in the ring. Sonya rolled footage of Charlotte attacking the referee last week and Deville claimed that Adam Pearce’s decision was rushed. Flair apologized to WWE management, the WWE Universe, and to the referee. Charlotte claimed that instinct just took over and she is here tonight to right the wrongs that she committed.

Flair apologized for “manhandling” the referee last week. The referee accepted the apology and said that he didn’t see Rhea Ripley interfere. Sonya officially lifted Charlotte’s suspension and said that Eddie will referee the match. Charlotte noted that Eddie just admitted that it was his mistake and forced him to apologize. Adam Pearce got annoyed with Sonya Deville backstage. Sonya tried to apologize but Pearce didn’t believe her

#TheQueen is back. POWER move by @SonyaDevilleWWE…#WWERaw @MsCharlotteWWE pic.twitter.com/I6ks4WOdtp

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Humberto Carrillo Got Revenge On Sheamus

United States Champion Sheamus came to the ring for another Open Challenge. Sheamus noted that the title will not be on the line in the match. Humberto Carrillo answered the challenge again and Sheamus hit him with a cheap shot. Sheamus beat Carrillo down but Humberto battled back. Carrillo sent Sheamus out of the ring with a Back Body Drop and then knocked him off the apron with a Dropkick. Carrillo followed it up with a Suicide Dive that sent Sheamus tumbling over the announce table.

LOOK AT HUMBERTO CARRILLO FLY.#WWERaw @humberto_wwe pic.twitter.com/CHf7tqFu0h

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Lashley Vowed To Leave Backlash As WWE Champion

WWE Champion Bobby Lashley returned and made his way to the ring with MVP. Lashley boasted about retaining the WWE Championship at WrestleMania and making Drew McIntyre pass out via the Hurt Lock. Lashley said it felt good to get the respect from the fans in attendance and compared Drew McIntyre to a piece of bubblegum stuck on his shoe.

Lashley vowed to beat McIntyre again at WrestleMania Backlash and complained about the possibility of this becoming a Triple Threat match. MVP said that Bobby Lashley is the All Mighty champion and he deserves to be consulted on any decision. Lashley added that it would be disrespectful and MVP agreed.

MVP said that Lashley lost the US Title in a Triple Threat match and he wasn’t pinned. MVP claimed that it wasn’t fair and Lashley said he could beat McIntyre and Strowman one on one at any time. Lashley vowed to leave Backlash as WWE Champion anyway to end the promo.

Whether it's one-on-one or #TripleThreat, @fightbobby fully intends to walk out of #WrestleManiaBacklash STILL your #WWEChampion. #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/1IMuiUlPlM

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

RKBro def. Alexander & Benjamin

Randy Orton approached Riddle backstage and said he underestimated him last week. Orton said he kind of liked the idea of team RKBro and arranged a tag team match tonight.

Need to get @RandyOrton a matching scooter ASAP.

He and @SuperKingOfBros will have a tag team match as #RKBro TONIGHT! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/PHjTXLLx20

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Riddle and Orton battled Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander tonight. Alexander and Benjamin controlled the action early and isolated Riddle in the ring. Riddle connected with a kick to Shelton’s face and tagged in Orton. Randy leveled Benjamin with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Powerslam.

Orton geared up for the RKO as Shelton stumbled to his feet. Alexander went for a Splash but Orton countered with an RKO out of nowhere. Orton set up for the Draping DDT but Riddle pleaded for the tag. Orton hit the DDT and Riddle tagged in. Riddle hit the Floating Bro for the pinfall victory. Riddle posed like Orton and Randy smiled after the match.

THEY DID IT.

First time as #RKBro is a success for @SuperKingOfBros & @RandyOrton! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/a5yYhbNcWa

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Rhea Ripley, Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler Picked Up A Win

Asuka, Naomi, Lana faced Nia Jax, Shayna Baszler, and RAW Women’s Champion Rhea Ripley in a 6-woman tag team match to begin the final hour of this week’s RAW. Mandy Rose and Dana Brooke distracted Nia early and she fell down outside the ring. Reginald then awkwardly helped her up in a lame attempt at humor as RAW went to a break.

https://twitter.com/WWEUniverse/status/1386864286782443532?s=20

When RAW returned, Asuka hit Ripley with a Hip Attack and then leveled Baszler with a shoulder tackle. Asuka delivered Double Knees to Nia and a Dropkick to Shayna for a two count. Baszler connected with a knee to the face and dragged Asuka to the corner.

Nia tagged in and slammed Asuka to the canvas and dropped an elbow for a two count. Asuka escaped and tagged Naomi in. Naomi hit Nia with a Crossbody and unloaded some punches. Naomi connected with a kick to the face and went for the cover but Shayna broke it up at two.

Reginald hopped on the ring apron for a distraction and Jax capitalized with a punch. Ripley tagged in and slammed Naomi to the canvas. Ripley went for the cover but Asuka broke it up at two. Ripley threw Asuka out of the ring and Lana tagged in. Rhea hit the Riptide on Naomi but turned around into a Crossbody from Lana for a two count.

Lana hit Double Knees but Ripley popped right up. Lana rolled up Rhea for a two count as Jax leveled Asuka outside the ring. Ripley slammed Lana to the mat and Nia tagged in. Jax hit a Leg Drop for the pinfall victory. Sonya Deville then confronted Mandy Rose and Dana Brooke backstage. Sonya told Mandy Rose that Charlotte Flair needed an opponent and that match is next.

? @RheaRipley_WWE
? @QoSBaszler
? @NiaJaxWWE

The champs get a dominant victory on #WWERaw. pic.twitter.com/aDCVRbxgvQ

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Alexa Bliss Warned The RAW Roster

Another episode of Alexa’s Playground aired tonight. Bliss said that everyone can have a Lily of their own and all you have to do is ask nicely. Alexa told everyone to look into her eyes and to think dark thoughts. Alexa instructed people to think twisted thoughts and to repeat “Lily, Lily, Lily”. Bliss added to picture something peaceful and then a screaming Lily popped up on the screen. Alexa laughed and said it is time to unleash Lily to play with the rest of WWE. Bliss said to not blame her for what happens next and that Lily made her do it.

'???? ????? ?????? ??? ?????.#WWERaw @AlexaBliss_WWE pic.twitter.com/d4x02QMuFZ

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

Charlotte Flair def. Mandy Rose

Charlotte Flair faced Mandy Rose tonight. Eddie Orengo was once again the official for the match as Charlotte requested and Dana Brooke was ringside. Charlotte tried to use the ropes for leverage during a cover but Dana broke it up. Mandy drove Charlotte to the corner but Flair battled back with a knee to the face.

Mandy connected with a Dropkick off the top rope and went for the cover but Flair kicked out at two. Charlotte got frustrated with the referee again after hitting a big boot for a two count. Flair complained about the referee’s count and claimed it was slow. Mandy rolled up Charlotte for a two count and followed it up with a kick to the face for another near fall. Charlotte then hit Natural Selection for the pinfall victory.

???@MsCharlotteWWE thinks she should have already gotten that 1??-2??-3??. #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/hBQ4hTtHPF

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 27, 2021

Braun Strowman Earned His Way Into The Title Match At WrestleMania Backlash

Strowman battled McIntyre in this week’s main event. Strowman controlled the match early and sent Drew to the apron. McIntyre punched Braun in the face and made his way to the top rope. Strowman caught him at the top and slammed him to the mat. Braun then knocked Strowman out of the ring and WWE Champion Bobby Lashley’s theme hit. Lashley made his way to the entrance ramp with MVP as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Strowman launched McIntyre into the turnbuckle as MVP and Lashley were seated next to the commentary table. Strowman hit a massive Powerbomb and went for the cover but McIntyre was able to kick out at two. Strowman perched McIntyre up on the top turnbuckle and connected with a right hand to the face.

Braun joined Drew on the top rope and planted him with a Superplex for another two count. Strowman clubbed McIntyre across the chest and hit a Splash in the corner of the ring. Lashley hopped on the ring apron as Strowman was about to hit the Running Powerslam. MVP did the same and McIntyre capitalized on the distraction. Mace & T-Bar then hopped on the ring apron and Strowman hit the Running Powerslam for the pinfall victory. Braun Strowman will now be added to the WWE Championship match at WrestleMania Backlash.

Distractions by @fightbobby…
Distractions by @MACEtheWRESTLER & @TBARRetribution…

It all leads to @BraunStrowman punching his ticket to #WrestleManiaBacklash! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/jwagOujg6R

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

The #WWEChampionship is on the line at #WrestleManiaBacklash in a TRIPLE THREAT MATCH.#WWERaw @fightbobby @DMcIntyreWWE @BraunStrowman pic.twitter.com/pJu0QWran9

— WWE (@WWE) April 27, 2021

WWE has confirmed another big title match for the upcoming WrestleMania Backlash pay-per-view. Hot off a historic championship victory at WrestleMania 37, Bianca Belair will defend the SmackDown women’s title against Bayley.

WWE first announced the news in an email blast promoting Friday’s SmackDown. It was later confirmed in a video posted on the company’s official social media channels.

Check out their interaction on Friday’s WWE SmackDown:

WrestleMania Backlash Card

In addition to Bianca Belair vs. Bayley, the only other match confirmed for WrestleMania Backlash is WWE Champion Bobby Lashley vs. Drew McIntyre in a WrestleMania rematch. Additional matches will be announced in the weeks ahead.

WWE presents the WrestleMania Backlash pay-per-view event on Sunday, May 16, 2021 from Tampa, Florida at Yuengling Center that will air on Peacock.

What are your thoughts on this match being added to the card? Sound off in the comment section.

WWE RAW aired live from the ThunderDome on the campus of the University of South Florida. It was the first episode of RAW following WrestleMania 37. Drew McIntyre, Randy Orton, and Braun Strowman battled in a Triple Threat match in the main event. The winner of the match will face Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania Backlash.

RAW Results (4/12)

1. Lashley def. Riddle
2. Viking Raiders def. Shelton Benjamin & Cedric Alexander
3. Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka ended in a no context (Charlotte interference)
4. The Miz & John Morrison def. Damian Priest in a Handicap match
5. Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler def. Mandy Rose & Dana Brooke via countout
6. New Day def. Elias & Jaxson Ryker
7. Drew McIntyre def. Randy Orton & Braun Strowman to earn a shot at the WWE Championship at WrestleMania Backlash

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Lashley Dominated

Riddle confronted Bobby Lashley backstage and challenged him to a WWE Championship. Riddle quoted Lashley saying anyone can have an opportunity and Lashley shoved him to the floor. Lashley said Riddle was a loser and he is a winner, and tonight he is going to show him the difference.

Lashley then battled Riddle in a non-title match. Lashley attacked Riddle during his entrance and launched him into the barricade. The WWE Champion continued to dominate as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Lashley slammed Riddle to the canvas and unloaded some punches. Riddle finally was able to get in some offense and connected with a few kicks. Riddle hit a knee to the face and made his way to the top rope. Riddle went for a Senton but Lashley caught him in the Hurt Lock for the submission victory.

Who wants next?!#WWERaw#RAWAfterMania pic.twitter.com/y8XAk6G8PR

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 13, 2021

The Viking Raiders Returned

Viking Raiders made their return tonight and faced Cedric Alexander & Shelton Benjamin. Cedric and Shelton got the jobber entrance for this match. Alexander and Benjamin isolated Erik in the ring to start off the action. Benjamin hit a knee to the face for a near fall.

Ivar finally tagged in and unloaded some strikes to Shelton Benjamin. Ivar planted Shelton with a Side Slam and followed it up with a Crossbody. Shelton kneed Ivar in the midsection but he shrugged it off and slammed Benjamin to the mat. Cedric tagged in and walked into a Clothesline. Ivar squashed Alexander in the corner and they followed it up with the Viking Experience for the pinfall victory.

Feelgood #RAWAfterMania moment.

Welcome back!! pic.twitter.com/x50GZu0qQB

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 13, 2021

Charlotte Flair Complained For Five Minutes

Charlotte Flair made her way to the ring and noted that she wasn’t on WrestleMania. Flair stated that she is a franchise player and what she does in the ring is sacred to her family. Charlotte added that it wasn’t her fault that she was on WrestleMania and Asuka didn’t accept her challenge.

Flair said Rhea Ripley is the biggest snake in the locker room and claimed that Asuka manipulated her way into a rematch tonight. Charlotte listed every female in the locker room and said that nobody compares to her.

Flair told all the fans who think she steals opportunities from their favorites, she is not going to apologize for being too good. Charlotte demanded that everyone show her some respect and to enjoy the title match that she should have been in.

"NO ONE COMPARES TO ME!" – @MsCharlotteWWE#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/FOCtS1cfJo

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

Asuka vs. Ripley Was A Botchfest

Rhea Ripley defended the RAW Women’s Championship against Asuka in a rematch from Night 2 of WrestleMania 37. Rhea Ripley controlled the action early as RAW went to a break. When RAW returned, Ripley leveled Asuka with a Clothesline and launched her into the turnbuckle.

Asuka leveled Ripley with a Dropkick off the top rope and bought herself some time to regroup. Asuka hit the Hip Attack and went for the cover but Rhea powered out at two. Asuka missed with a Dropkick and Ripley applied a submission hold.

Asuka reached the ropes and then a series of botches occurred where it looked like Rhea and Asuka were completely lost. Asuka and Rhea then battled outside the ring and Charlotte Flair attacked them both to mercifully end the match. Charlotte then mocked them both before leaving.

Opinion: I have no idea what the hell happened with this match but Jim Ross would describe it as “bowling shoe ugly”. Rhea and Asuka looked like they’ve wrestled a match before tonight. It was bizarre to watch the botches mount up and it just made both superstars look terrible. It was a wonderful moment when Charlotte interfered because it just signified that the match was over.

Mocking the #WWERaw Women's Champion @RheaRipley_WWE?

Uh. Oh. ? pic.twitter.com/Dj1jBca1Wv

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) April 13, 2021

Alexa Bliss Has An Evil Puppet

Alexa Bliss cut a promo from her swing set. Bliss said once upon a time there was a little girl who lost but one day she was rescued from the darkness. The darkness protected her and taught her everything it knew. Bliss said that the darkness went away and that was when the little girl realized that she never needed the darkness after all. Alexa realized that she can do everything on her own and that the darkness was standing in her way. Bliss added that she has unlocked something truly evil and introduced “Lily”, her new puppet friend.

"Meet my new friend Lily."#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/k5Ped2cFus

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

Miz & Morrison def. Damian Priest

The Miz, John Morrison, and Maryse came to the ring for an episode of Miz TV to hype their reality show airing after RAW. Miz claimed he turned Bad Bunny into a WWE superstar and rolled highlights of him at WrestleMania. Damian Priest interrupted and said Bad Bunny put in the work to live his dream in a WWE ring.

Miz mocked Priest because he was upstaged by Bad Bunny and failed to have a WrestleMania moment. Miz and Morrison challenged Priest to a Handicap match and Damian accepted. Priest beat Miz down in the corner to start off the match.

Morrison tagged in and hit Damian with an Elbow Drop for a two count. Priest booted Morrison int he face and hit him with a Splash in the corner. Priest hit Miz with a Chokeslam and went for the cover but Morrison broke it up at two. Maryse hopped up on the apron for a distraction and Miz was down to his underwear. Miz rolled up Damian and used the ropes for leverage for the pinfall victory.

Opinion: I guess someone will have to explain to me why this match needed to happen in the first place, and why Damian Priest lost it to The Miz in his underwear.

??????#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/cXh53sIFIC

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

Shayna & Nia Won Via Countout

Women’s Tag Team Champions Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler faced Dana Brooke & Mandy Rose in a non-title match tonight. The champs controlled the match early and isolated Dana Brooke in the ring. Shayna bounced Dana’s head off the turnbuckle and Nia followed it up with an elbow to the midsection for a two count. Jax then applied a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Mandy tagged in and got in some offense before Nia slipped on the apron. Mandy and Dana laughed and then ran away because Nia was pissed to end the match in a countout.

Opinion: Unfortunately, this show has been terrible so far. It was a funny moment that Mandy Rose slipped during her entrance for the Tag Team Turmoil match during Night 1. However, a funny moment is all that it was and it has passed. As Shane McMahon would say, this was stupid. What kind of babyface team purposely loses a match by countout?

Uh oh!#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/8hpP4YwEM1

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

New Day def. Elias & Ryker

Elias and Jaxson Ryker went to perform a song to honor Shane McMahon but New Day interrupted and mocked them. Ryker and Elias then battled New Day in a Tag Team match. New Day controlled the match early as RAW went to a break.

When RAW returned, Woods went for a Crossbody but Ryker caught him with an elbow to the face. Elias tagged in and went for the cover but Woods kicked out at two. Ryker hit a Backbreaker but Woods kicked out at two again. Kofi finally got the tag and sent Ryker out of the ring.

Kington hit Elias with a Dropkick and followed it up with a Double Stomp for a near fall. Kingston connected with a Backbreaker and tagged in Woods. Xavier connected with a Stomp off the top rope for the pinfall victory.

New Day Grâce!#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/w5MpwCDy0z

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

Firefly Fun House Returned

Bray Wyatt returned for a new episode of Firefly Fun House. Abby the Witch referred to Alexa Bliss as a “b*tch” and Bray said “witches be wildin”. Wyatt claimed that he felt great and it is time for a brand new start for all of us. Bray said he feels reborn and there will be no more clout chasing in this simulation.

Home is where the fear is.

After the shocking #WrestleMania betrayal by @AlexaBliss_WWE, @WWEBrayWyatt returns home to #FireflyFunhouse rejuvenated and prophesizing HIS return! #WWERaw pic.twitter.com/E4OfzkywDw

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

McIntyre Earned A Rematch Against Lashley

MVP came to the ring and was about to introduce Bobby Lashley for a championship celebration. Drew McIntyre interrupted and said he is man enough to admit he made the first mistake at WrestleMania when he allowed MVP to distract him.

McIntyre told MVP to keep growing Lashley’s ego and dress him in the fancy suits. Drew added that he wants Lashley’s head as big as possible because eventually he is going to have a rematch. McIntyre said when he hits the Claymore, Lashley will fall all the way down and look up at him as the new WWE Champion.

Braun Strowman joined the party and got in McIntyre’s face. Randy Orton came down to the ring as well before Adam Pearce interrupted. Pearce announced that Orton, Strowman, and McIntyre will have a Triple Threat match tonight. The winner will face Lashley at the next PPV called “WrestleMania Backlash”.

Strowman, McIntyre, and Orton battled in the main event. Orton rolled out of the ring as Strowman hit McIntyre with some chops in the corner of the ring. The action spilled to the outside and McIntyre bashed Strowman in the face with the steel steps. Orton then slammed McIntyre onto the announce table as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Orton and McIntyre teamed up and sent Strowman out of the ring. Orton leveled Drew with a Clothesline and stomped on his hand. Orton launched McIntyre over the announce table and to the floor outside the ring. Strowman hit McIntyre with the steel steps and delivered a Clothesline to Orton.

Braun bashed Drew in the face again with the steel steps and rolled Randy into the ring. Orton caught Strowman in the ropes and planted him with the draping DDT. Orton hit the RKO but McIntyre broke up the cover at two with a Claymore to Orton. McIntyre then pinned Orton to win the match and earned a rematch against Lashley at WrestleMania Backlash. After the match, MVP showed up on the entrance ramp. T-Bar and Mace attacked McIntyre to close the show.

.@DMcIntyreWWE is going to #WrestleManiaBacklash!!#WWERaw pic.twitter.com/AhD0yUtp8V

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021

Opinion: I was shocked at how bad this week’s show was. I don’t want to see McIntyre versus Lashley again and why T-Bar & Mace have replaced Alexander & Benjamin is beyond me. There really isn’t much positive to say about this show and that is incredibly disappointing for the RAW after WrestleMania.

.@TBARRetribution & @RETRIBUTIONMACE just took out @DMcIntyreWWE on #WWERaw! pic.twitter.com/AH4qEOuCgm

— WWE (@WWE) April 13, 2021