The road to WWE Backlash hit high gear on April 27, Monday night in Laredo, Texas. Coming off the heels of the WrestleMania 42, the WWE RAW saw civil wars between family, a viral debut that shook the ring, and a championship main event that lived up to the hype.
Roman Reigns vs Jacob Fatu
The most anticipated moment of the night came during the final segment. Roman Reigns took to the ring to address his cousin, Jacob Fatu, who had laid down a challenge for the World Heavyweight Championship. Reigns initially dismissed Fatu. However, Fatu wasn’t there for a lecture.
He interrupted the Tribal Chief with a chilling promo, declaring that while Roman was enjoying the spotlight, Fatu was “suffering and broke” for 12 years. The tension exploded when Fatu grabbed Roman by the throat with the Tongan Death Grip, leaving the champion gasping in the middle of the ring. As Fatu walked away, a battered Reigns grabbed a mic and screamed, “I accept!” making Roman Reigns vs. Jacob Fatu official for Backlash.
Joe Hendry RAW Debut
Laredo stood on its feet as the viral sensation Joe Hendry made his official RAW debut. In true Hendry fashion, he didn’t just walk out; he put on a concert. After revealing he had officially signed a contract with Adam Pearce, Hendry played a song that absolutely roasted Logan Paul, even calling for him to be fired. The segment turned into a brawl when Logan Paul and Austin Theory tried to crash the party, but the Street Profits made the save, signaling that Hendry has already found some powerful allies on the roster.
Becky Lynch Survives IYO SKY
WWE RAW Results:
| Matchup | Winner | Method / Notable Moment |
| Penta vs. Rusev | Penta | Pinfall via roll-up. |
| Becky Lynch (c) vs. IYO SKY | Becky Lynch | Retained after Asuka interfered. |
| Rey Mysterio vs. El Grande Americano | Rey Mysterio | 619 and Springboard Splash for the win. |
| Oba Femi vs. Grayson Waller | Oba Femi | Quick squash via “Fall from Grace.” |
