WWE Backlash 2024: Rhodes Retains, Priest Emerges, and The Bloodline Explodes in Lyon

 

The historic first WWE Backlash held in France delivered a night of thrilling action, unexpected twists, and championship glory. Here's a breakdown of the results, live grades, and key takeaways from an unforgettable evening in Lyon.

**Chaos Erupts as The Bloodline Retains (Grade: B+):**

The opening match was a chaotic Street Fight pitting Randy Orton & Kevin Owens against Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga, representing The Bloodline. The brawl spilled outside the ring, utilizing the French announce table and the barricade. Just as Owens secured a potential victory with a Stunner on Sikoa, a shocking debut unfolded. Tanga Loa, Tonga's brother, jumped the barricade, interfering and giving The Bloodline the win. This surprise appearance sets the stage for potential future encounters between The Bloodline and a reunited RKBro (Orton & Owens). 

**Bayley Holds Onto the Gold (Grade: C+):**

The WWE Women's Championship was on the line in a Triple Threat Match featuring Bayley, Naomi, and rising star Tiffany Stratton. The match showcased Naomi's athleticism and Stratton's impressive agility. However, the cunning Bayley capitalized on the chaos, countering a pin attempt from Naomi to retain her title. While the match itself wasn't a classic, it effectively positioned Stratton as a future contender and continued Bayley's reign atop the women's division.

**Priest Emerges Victorious (Grade: A-):**

WWE Backlash 2024: Rhodes Retains, Priest Emerges, and The Bloodline Explodes in Lyon

The World Heavyweight Championship clash between Damian Priest and Jey Uso was a hard-hitting contest.  Uso displayed his signature high-flying offense, but Priest countered with a devastating arsenal of strikes. The champion capitalized on Uso's momentary distraction caused by interference from Finn Balor and Karl Anderson (collectively known as The Judgment Day), hitting The Southpaw with a decisive Reckoning for the win. This decisive victory strengthens Priest's position as World Heavyweight Champion and throws a wrench in the plans of The Judgment Day.

**Tag Team Turmoil (Grade: B):**

The Kabuki Warriors defended their WWE Women's Tag Team Championship against the unlikely pairing of Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill. The match was a display of contrasting styles, with the Kabuki Warriors' veteran teamwork challenged by the raw power of Belair and Cargill. In the end, it was Belair's Experience countered by Cargill's finisher, the Jaded, that secured the win for the new champions. This title change opens the door for fresh rivalries within the women's tag team division.

**The American Dream Retains (Grade: A):**

WWE Backlash 2024: Rhodes Retains, Priest Emerges, and The Bloodline Explodes in Lyon

The main event saw the Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes defend his title against the phenomenal AJ Styles. The crowd in Lyon was electric, fully invested in this clash of titans. Both superstars delivered a technical masterpiece, showcasing their in-ring prowess with reversals, near falls, and high-risk maneuvers. Ultimately, Rhodes capitalized on Styles' missed Phenomenal Forearm, hitting a Cross Rhodes for the pinfall victory. This win solidifies Rhodes' position as the top dog in WWE and sets the stage for a potential long-term rivalry with Styles.

**The Bloodline Explodes:**

The closing moments were nothing short of explosive. Following the main event, Roman Reigns confronted The Usos about their lackluster performance throughout the evening. The tension escalated, leading to a heated exchange between Jey Uso and Reigns.  Jimmy Uso attempted to intervene as peacemaker, but frustrations boiled over. Jey shoved Reigns, a moment of defiance that sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe.  

**Overall Reaction:**

WWE Backlash 2024: Rhodes Retains, Priest Emerges, and The Bloodline Explodes in Lyon

WWE Backlash 2024 delivered a night of action-packed matches, unexpected turns, and a potential changing of the guard within The Bloodline. While some matches fell short of classic status, the main event and the closing angle involving The Bloodline promise a captivating storyline moving forward. 

**This is just a glimpse of the night's events. For a more detailed breakdown, including highlights and post-match reactions, you can check out WWE's official website and social media platforms.