When Is WWE Backlash 2026? Date, Location & Preview

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When Is WWE Backlash 2026? Date, Location & Preview

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Harrison | Last updated Apr 20, 2026 4:37 PM ET

WrestleMania 42 has just ended, but WWE has no offseason. The next Premium Live Event is already just weeks away.

WWE’s next PLE is Backlash 2026, set for Saturday, May 9 in Tampa, Florida, at the Benchmark International Arena. Paul Levesque originally announced the event on January 31 during Royal Rumble weekend, with WWE confirming the details in a press release shortly after.

As the name suggests, Backlash is built around the fallout from WrestleMania. Rather than a full reset, the event typically continues the biggest rivalries from WWE’s marquee show. Several WrestleMania 42 storylines still have room to develop, with Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton standing out as one of the clearest potential continuations.

Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton's rivalry escalated at WrestleMania 42, meaning it will likely continue at Backlash 2026.Getty Images

In recent years, WWE has elevated Backlash into a must-watch event, with international shows in Puerto Rico and Lyon, France helping redefine its importance on the calendar. This year, the event returns to the United States — and with Roman Reigns back at the top of the company and expected to remain a central figure throughout the summer, Backlash 2026 could carry even greater significance.

How to Watch WWE Backlash 2026

Backlash will stream on ESPN Unlimited in the United States.

The event is scheduled to begin at 6 p.m. ET / 5 p.m. CT / 3 p.m. PT.

The quick turnaround from WrestleMania means many new subscribers will need continued access, as Backlash arrives just three weeks after WWE’s biggest show of the year.

No matches have been announced yet. Athlon Sports will provide full coverage and updates as the card takes shape.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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