John Cena Set To Appear At WWE Backlash 2026

John Cena is set to return to WWE for Backlash 2026, with the multi-time world champion advertised for the event on May 9 in Tampa, Florida.

The Benchmark international Arena - host of the event - have announced on the official event page on their website that ‘John Cena returns to Tampa at Backlash’, although it is as yet unknown if Cena will appear on the broadcast.

Cena had previously announced he was set to be in Tampa for the event, but did not outright confirm he would be a part of the show, with Cena posting on X/Twitter in late April:



“Man if only it were 2023 again!! I might have different business at @WWE #Backlash Alas, the years pass. I am still gonna try to do something epic in Tampa for 5/9. I promised Club WWE something special… stay tuned.”

Cena retired from in-ring competition at the end of 2025 with defeat at the hands of GUNTHER, but has remained part of the WWE family. Indeed, Cena returned to the promotion as the host of WrestleMania 42, with Cena appearing on both nights of the event in Las Vegas, Nevada.