WWE NXT Preview 5/12/2026

WWE NXT tonight at 8/7c on The CW and Netflix (Internationally).

  • Noam Dar vs. Jackson Drake
  • Kendal Grey vs. Kelani Jordan
  • Naraku vs. TBA
  • Birthright vs. TBA

Michael Cole Comments On Asuka’s Uncertain WWE Future Following Emotional Raw Farewell

Questions continue to surround Asuka’s WWE status after an emotional segment aired on this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw.

The former Women’s Champion was already the subject of heavy speculation coming out of WWE Backlash, where she shared a heartfelt moment with IYO SKY after losing to “The Genius of the Sky.” The two embraced following the match, and social media activity from several WWE talents only added to rumors that Asuka may be stepping away from the company.

Reports that surfaced afterward painted an unclear picture regarding her future. One claimed the veteran star was “semi-retired,” while another noted that even people within WWE creative and the locker room reportedly aren’t certain about her current status.

Raw added more intrigue with a pre-taped backstage segment featuring SKY and Asuka. In the emotional exchange, Asuka told SKY she had been searching for someone worthy of carrying things forward and said she was happy it ended up being her longtime ally and rival.

She also told SKY how proud she was of her accomplishments. SKY responded by saying they would always be family no matter how many times they battle each other in the ring. She then said goodbye to “Asuka-san,” prompting Asuka to reply with “see you later” before the two hugged.

The segment ended with Asuka walking away with luggage in hand while SKY watched her leave.

During SKY’s later match against Sol Ruca, Michael Cole acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the situation on commentary, stating that Asuka’s “future is up in the air” and noting that she appeared to have said goodbye.

Asuka has been one of WWE’s most decorated women’s stars since signing with the company in 2016. Over the years, she captured multiple championships across NXT and the main roster while building a reputation as one of the most influential international stars in WWE history.

Despite reports that she signed a new WWE contract in 2024, there is still no official word on whether this is a temporary hiatus, a reduced schedule, or something more permanent. Speculation has also continued regarding whether the recent departure of longtime tag team partner Kairi Sane could be connected to the situation.

For now, WWE has not released an official statement regarding Asuka’s future.

WWE Raw Preview 5/11/2026

WWE Raw live today at 8/7c on Netflix from the Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center in Knoxville, Tennessee.

  • Fallout from Backlash
  • Street Profits & Joe Hendry vs. The Vision
  • Women’s Tag Team Champions Brie Bella & Paige respond to The Judgment Day
  • Jacob Fatu to take part in the Roman Reigns Acknowledgment Ceremony
  • Appearances by CM Punk and Seth Rollins
  • Oba Femi Open Challenge continues

Backstage Update Emerges On Asuka’s WWE Future After Emotional Backlash Moment

WWE Backlash left fans talking about more than just IYO SKY’s victory over Asuka. The post-match interaction between the two stars quickly sparked speculation that “The Empress of Tomorrow” may have been saying goodbye to WWE altogether.

Following the event, several WWE talents shared emotional messages directed toward Asuka on social media, fueling rumors that her in-ring career could be winding down. A report from Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer indicated that Asuka was considered “semi-retired,” adding even more uncertainty to the situation.

According to a new report from Fightful Select, there is still no clear answer internally regarding Asuka’s status. Many within the WWE locker room reportedly do not know whether Backlash marked the end of her full-time run or if she is simply stepping away for a break. The confusion reportedly extends to WWE creative as well, with staff said to be unsure about the company’s long-term plans for her.

Despite the speculation, one point appears to be consistent backstage: the match against IYO SKY was not viewed as Asuka’s retirement bout. The belief is that she will wrestle again at some point in the future.

The report also notes that Asuka signed a new long-term WWE deal in 2024, although the exact length of the contract has not been disclosed publicly. It remains unknown whether recent WWE budget-related changes — including reported requests for some talents to take pay reductions — had any impact on her situation.

Another topic reportedly discussed backstage is the recent release of Kairi Sane. Sane’s departure came as a surprise to many, especially given her close on-screen and real-life connection with Asuka as part of the Kabuki Warriors. While there is no confirmation that Sane’s release directly affected Asuka’s outlook, the report states that several people within WWE were unhappy with how the duo had been utilized over the past year.

There was reportedly frustration over the limited television focus placed on Asuka and Sane throughout late 2024 and early 2025, particularly because many believed the storyline involving the Kabuki Warriors and IYO SKY had strong potential if given more consistent development.

For now, Asuka’s WWE future remains uncertain, but it does not appear that fans have seen the last of her inside the ring.

John Cena Announces New WWE Event (John Cena Classic) And Fan-Voted Championship At Backlash 2026

John Cena made an appearance at WWE Backlash 2026 to unveil a brand-new WWE project centered around the next generation of talent.

During the segment, Cena officially announced the creation of the “John Cena Classic,” a new WWE event that will feature crossover matches between WWE main roster stars and talent from WWE NXT.

The WWE legend reflected on his retirement match against GUNTHER at Saturday Night’s Main Event back in December and specifically pointed to Oba Femi’s breakout appearance on the same show as inspiration for the concept. Cena praised Femi’s rise over the past several months, noting that the powerhouse has since become one of the top stars on Raw and famously retired Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 42.

According to Cena, the goal of the John Cena Classic is to continue giving younger talent major opportunities on a big stage while allowing established WWE stars to help elevate the next wave of performers.

Cena also announced that the event will introduce a brand-new championship with a unique twist attached to it.

In one of the more surprising details of the announcement, Cena stated that fans will have direct input in determining the champion regardless of the actual in-ring result. He explained that the WWE Universe will be able to vote on who becomes champion, meaning a wrestler could potentially lose their match and still walk away with the title.

While Cena shared the overall concept for the event and championship, he did not reveal additional details about how the voting system will work. WWE also did not unveil the championship belt itself during the segment.

No official date for the inaugural John Cena Classic was announced at Backlash.

WWE Backlash 2026 Results

WWE Backlash 2026 delivered a packed night featuring championship clashes, surprise comedy chaos, and a brutal main event that left Roman Reigns barely standing by the end of the show.

Here are the full results and highlights from WWE Backlash 2026.

Bron Breakker def. Seth Rollins

Backlash opened with an explosive showdown between Bron Breakker and Seth Rollins, and the two wasted no time turning the match into a war.

Rollins came flying out of the gate with multiple dives to the outside, but Breakker eventually turned the momentum around after catching Seth with a massive belly-to-belly suplex over the ropes to the floor.

The former World Heavyweight Champion battled back repeatedly with superkicks, Buckle Bombs, and a Pedigree, while Breakker answered with brutal power offense and multiple spears throughout the match.

Late in the contest, Paul Heyman attempted to distract Rollins from ringside while Austin Theory and Logan Paul appeared at ringside. Rollins fought them off with a steel chair before returning to the ring, only to get nearly split in half by another spear.

After surviving a Pedigree and Blackout combination, Breakker finally finished Rollins off with a devastating spear for the victory.

Winner: Bron Breakker via pinfall

Trick Williams def. Sami Zayn to retain the WWE Men’s United States Championship

Sami Zayn challenged Trick Williams for the WWE Men’s United States Championship in a highly physical contest that also featured plenty of interference from Lil Yachty at ringside.

The match featured strong back-and-forth action, including Zayn delivering a Blue Thunder Driver for a near fall and Trick responding with a Book End and several close calls of his own.

Lil Yachty repeatedly inserted himself into the match using a candy cane kendo stick, creating several distractions that nearly cost both men the match.

Zayn appeared close to victory after taking Yachty out at ringside and setting up for the Helluva Kick, but Williams avoided the move at the last second and connected with Trickshot to retain his championship.

After the match, Yachty celebrated in the ring alongside Williams.

Winner: Trick Williams via pinfall to retain the WWE Men’s United States Championship

Danhausen & Minihausen def. The Miz & Kit Wilson

One of the night’s more bizarre moments came when Danhausen revealed his mystery partner: Minihausen.

The comedic tag team match quickly turned chaotic, featuring cloning machine antics, multiple Minihausens appearing during the closing moments, and plenty of trademark Danhausen absurdity.

Minihausen impressed early with high-flying offense before The Miz and Kit Wilson isolated him for much of the match.

The finish came after the cloning machine seemingly produced several additional Minihausens, creating enough confusion for Danhausen to connect with a pump kick on The Miz for the victory.

Winners: Danhausen & Minihausen via pinfall

IYO SKY def. Asuka

IYO SKY and Asuka delivered one of the strongest in-ring matches of the night in a hard-hitting, emotional battle.

The two traded submission attempts, strikes, counters, and several near falls throughout the contest. Asuka targeted SKY’s arm repeatedly while IYO answered with her trademark speed and aerial offense.

One of the biggest moments came when Asuka attempted to use mist on top of the announce desk, only for IYO to block it using Wade Barrett’s notebook before countering into a huge dive.

After escaping the Asuka Lock late in the match, SKY finally connected with her signature moonsault to secure the victory.

Following the match, the emotional moment continued as Asuka embraced IYO, raised her hand, and showed respect to her longtime rival and student.

Winner: IYO SKY via pinfall

John Cena announces the “John Cena Classic”

John Cena appeared at Backlash to make a major announcement regarding the future of WWE.

Cena revealed the creation of the “John Cena Classic,” a new WWE event designed to showcase current WWE stars alongside rising NXT talent. During the promo, Cena specifically praised names such as Sol Ruca, Je’Von Evans, and Oba Femi.

Cena also announced a new championship tied to the event, with fans reportedly being given voting power in determining the champion, even allowing a wrestler to potentially lose a match but still win the title through fan voting.

The WWE legend stated he hopes the event becomes a long-running tradition moving forward.

Roman Reigns def. Jacob Fatu to retain the WWE Men’s World Championship

The main event saw Roman Reigns defend the WWE Men’s World Championship against Jacob Fatu in a violent and physical clash.

Fatu immediately proved he belonged in the spotlight, matching Reigns shot-for-shot while repeatedly surviving major offense, including Superman Punches and spears.

Roman attempted to target Fatu’s arm throughout the match, but the “Samoan Werewolf” continued fighting back with powerbombs, sentons, moonsaults, and the dangerous Tongan Death Grip submission.

The action escalated when Fatu powerbombed Reigns through the announce desk before later kicking out of another spear.

After a chaotic closing stretch involving an exposed turnbuckle and referee involvement, Reigns finally managed to put Fatu away with one final spear to retain the championship.

However, the story didn’t end there.

Following the match, Fatu snapped and brutally attacked Reigns, referees, and WWE officials. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce, Jason Jordan, Jamie Noble, and even Shane Helms attempted to stop him, but Fatu continued assaulting everyone in sight.

The show ended with Jacob Fatu standing tall over a destroyed Roman Reigns while holding the championship belt high.

Winner: Roman Reigns via pinfall to retain the WWE Men’s World Championship

WWE Backlash 2026 Results Recap

  • Bron Breakker def. Seth Rollins
  • Trick Williams def. Sami Zayn to retain the WWE Men’s United States Championship
  • Danhausen & Minihausen def. The Miz & Kit Wilson
  • IYO SKY def. Asuka
  • Roman Reigns def. Jacob Fatu to retain the WWE Men’s World Championship

AEW Collision: Fairway to Hell Preview 5/9/2026

AEW Collision one-hour special “Fairway to Hell” live Saturday night on TBS and HBO Max at 8/7c from the SoFi Center in West Palm Beach, FL

  • AEW World Championship: Darby Allin (c) vs. Pac
  • AEW National Championship: Jungle Jack Perry (c) vs. Mark Davis
  • AEW Women’s World Tag Team Champion Divine Dominium in action

WWE Backlash 5/9/2026 (Card)

WWE Backlash – Saturday May 5, 2026 – 6 ET/3 PT on the ESPN App with an ESPN Unlimited Plan in the United States and Netflix internationally – Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, FL.

The first hour to air on ESPN 2.

John Cena to make an announcement.

CARD

  • World Heavyweight Championship: Roman Reigns (c) vs. Jacob Fatu
  • Seth Rollins vs. Bron Breakker
  • United States Championship: Trick Williams (c) vs. Sami Zayn
  • The Miz & Kit Wilson vs. Danhausen & TBD
  • IYO SKY vs. Asuka

WWE SmackDown Preview 5/8/2026

WWE SmackDown live tonight at 8/7c on the USA Network in the United States and Netflix internationally from the Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Florida.

  • Jacob Fatu to open the show
  • WWE Women’s United States Championship: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Kiana James
  • Fatal Influence vs. Alexa Bliss, Charlotte Flair & Rhea Ripley
  • Damian Priest vs. Talla Tonga
  • Trick Williams host the funeral for Gingerbread Man
  • Gunther to address his attack on Cody Rhodes

WWE Moves AJ Lee, Paige, And Bella Twins To Free Agent Section

WWE has quietly updated its official online roster page, and several high-profile names are now listed as free agents.

Fans spotted on May 8 that AJ Lee, Paige, Nikki Bella, and Brie Bella had all been moved into WWE’s free agent category. Prior to the change, AJ Lee and The Bella Twins were listed under the RAW roster section.

The update means the four stars are no longer officially assigned to a specific brand, potentially opening the door for appearances across both RAW and SmackDown moving forward.

Paige recently made her in-ring WWE return at WrestleMania 42 after stepping in for an injured Nikki Bella during the Fatal Four-Way Women’s Tag Team Championship match. Paige teamed with Brie Bella in the bout, and the duo ultimately captured the titles from The Irresistible Forces.

AJ Lee also made a major comeback to WWE last year after returning in September. Since then, she had been involved in the women’s title picture before dropping the Women’s Intercontinental Championship to Becky Lynch at WrestleMania 42.

At the moment, AJ Lee has not been featured in an active storyline, though reports indicate she is expected to resurface on WWE television ahead of a major upcoming premium live event.

While WWE has not publicly commented on the roster adjustments, placement in the free agent section typically allows talent to appear on multiple brands without being locked into one specific show.