WWE Champions face defining tests in Backlash

Get ready for a night of championship clashes as WWE Backlash emanates from the LDLC Arena in Lyon, France on May 4th. Two huge title matches are set to headline the event, with high-stakes battles for both the World Heavyweight Championship and the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.

Championship Collisions in France

This year's Backlash promises to be a truly international spectacle, marking the first time the event is held outside of North America. WWE fans in Lyon will be treated to a night of hard-hitting action as two champions attempt to defend their titles.

1. World Heavyweight Championship Match: Damian Priest (c) vs. Jey Uso - It remains to be seen if Priest can continue his reign as World Heavyweight Champion, or if Jey Uso will dethrone him and usher in a new era.

2. Undisputed WWE Universal Championship Match: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. AJ Styles - A dream match for many fans finally comes to fruition as Cody Rhodes defends his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against the phenomenal AJ Styles.

Predictions

1. Dominik Mysterio & Finn Balor vs. Andrade & Ricochet

This tag team bout is likely a setup for further developments within The Judgment Day. We can expect a hard-hitting and fast-paced match. Balor's veteran cunning will clash with Ricochet's high-flying offence, while Mysterio might grapple with internal conflict. While Balor and Mysterio are a seasoned team, the combination of Andrade's technical mastery and Ricochet's aerial wizardry could prove too much. 

2. Intercontinental Championship -- Sami Zayn (c) vs. Chad Gable

This clash of styles promises a technical masterpiece. Zayn's mastery of mind games will be countered by Gable's incredible wrestling acumen. Expect a mat-based clinic with both men showcasing their technical brilliance. This match could go either way, but with Zayn's recent championship run, a clean victory for him might feel repetitive. 

3. Kevin Owens vs. Solo Sikoa or Tama Tonga

This match hinges on who WWE chooses as Owens' opponent.

• Solo Sikoa: This fresher matchup would focus on raw power and aggression. Owens' veteran experience will collide with Sikoa's brute force, leading to a chaotic brawl. Owens, a survivor, could pull off a narrow victory with a signature manoeuvre after weathering Sikoa's onslaught.

• Tama Tonga: This encounter would be a clash of veterans. Expect a more technical and strategic bout with nods to their history in Bullet Club. Given Tonga's recent struggles, Owens seems favoured. However, a surprise victory for Tonga with a cunning heel manoeuvre wouldn't be out of the picture.

4. WWE Women's Tag Team Championships -- Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane) vs. Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill

This dream match pits two of the most dominant teams against each other. The Kabuki Warriors' teamwork and in-ring experience will be tested by the raw athleticism and power of Belair and Cargill. The Kabuki Warriors might struggle initially against the sheer force of Belair and Cargill. However, expect their veteran cunning and flawless tag team manoeuvres to shine through. 

5. WWE Tag Team Championships -- A-Town Down Under (Austin Theory and Grayson Waller) vs. Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford)

This encounter promises high-flying action and comedic moments. Theory's arrogance will clash with the Street Profits' charisma, leading to an entertaining contest. The Street Profits have a slight edge due to their experience and teamwork. However, Theory's constant scheming with Waller could lead to a close call.

6. World Tag Team Championships -- Awesome Truth (The Miz and R-Truth) vs. #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa)

This nostalgia-fueled match promises a technical masterpiece. The Miz's in-ring cunning will be countered by #DIY's unmatched tag team chemistry. Expect a fast-paced and exciting contest. While #DIY is a dream team for many fans, a title change here might feel unearned after Awesome Truth's recent victory.