Backlash 2026 Officially Confirmed for Tampa – WWE has officially confirmed the location for Backlash 2026, putting an end to weeks of speculation surrounding where the premium live event would take place. The announcement came directly from WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque on January 31, just hours before Royal Rumble 2026 went live from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
In a video posted to social media, Triple H revealed that Backlash 2026 will be held on Saturday, May 9, at the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida. The announcement definitively ruled out earlier reports that pointed to San Juan, Puerto Rico as the likely host city.
“We are moments away from the Royal Rumble here in Saudi Arabia. An epic night. The road to WrestleMania begins. But when WrestleMania finishes, there’s a big event called Backlash. And here tonight, I’m going to let you know that on May 9, Saturday, May 9, the Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, Florida, Backlash returns. It’s going to be big. So, Tampa, Florida, I just got one question. Are you ready?”
The confirmation puts to rest internal chatter that had suggested WWE was strongly considering a return to Puerto Rico. San Juan previously hosted Backlash in 2023, an event that drew widespread praise for its atmosphere and crowd reaction. While that success fueled expectations of another international edition, WWE has now locked in a domestic venue for the 2026 show.
Backlash 2026 will take place roughly three weeks after WrestleMania 42, which is scheduled for Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Traditionally, Backlash serves as the first major event following WrestleMania, often featuring rematches, storyline fallouts, and the next chapter for top stars coming out of WWE’s biggest weekend of the year.
With the location now officially set, attention will shift to what the card may look like and which major names will be featured. There has already been speculation surrounding potential appearances by crossover stars and high-profile talent, though nothing has been confirmed at this time.
WWE’s decision to bring Backlash to Tampa continues the company’s trend of spreading major events across key U.S. markets while still balancing its growing international schedule.
Backlash 2026 Officially Confirmed for Tampa
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