WWE SmackDown: Randy Orton gets title shot at Backlash
Wednesday 2 May 2018 10:35, UK
Jeff Hardy's appearance on Miz TV on last night's SmackDown led to the United States champion entering into a Backlash match against Randy Orton.
The Miz, as was perhaps to have been expected, attempted to goad Orton into attacking Hardy during his always-entertaining talk show segment.
WWE Late Night Smackdown
Orton, however, could not be swayed and the interaction eventually led to a tag team match, with Shelton Benjamin pairing up with The Miz.
Hardy and Orton came out on top but the Viper hit a post-match RKO on the champion and they will now go head-to-head live on Sky Sports Box Office on Sunday night.
Nakamura-Styles becomes no-DQ match
AJ Styles found himself on the receiving end of a Kinshasa knee strike as the WWE champion's plate becomes increasingly full on SmackDown.
As if the prospect of facing Shinsuke Nakamura at Backlash is not enough, a no-disqualification stipulation has been added to the match on Sunday night.
Furthermore, Samoa Joe made his presence felt on the blue brand, stating his desire to challenge Styles in what would be another dream match for WWE fans - providing the Phenomenal One keeps the title, of course.
Flair gains Backlash momentum
While neither Charlotte Flair or Carmella was involved in the pin, there was a win for the former over the latter as their build to Sunday night's match continues.
Flair teamed with Becky Lynch and Asuka to face the SmackDown women's champion and the IIconics, Bille Kay and Peyton Royce.
Asuke forced Royce to tap out for the victory but it was a very strong showing for Flair, who notably executed a picture-perfect top-rope moonsault to wipe out Carmella and Kay on the outside.
