ESPN Reveals Comprehensive Coverage Plans for WWE Backlash 2026

WWE Backlash Tampa is set for this weekend, and in a press release, ESPN announced its plans to deliver comprehensive, multi-platform coverage of this weekend’s premium live event. This includes WWE Superstars appearing across ESPN studio programming, including SportsCenter, Get Up, First Take, The Rich Eisen Show, and Unsportsmanlike. Talent scheduled to appear includes Seth Rollins, Jacob Fatu, Charlotte Flair, Paul Heyman, Trick Williams, Danhausen, and The Miz.

Additionally, ESPN.com will have in-depth coverage of the event, including a Backlash preview by Greg Wyshynski and live results, analysis, and takeaways by Sach Chandan. ESPN also confirmed that ESPN Social will feature comprehensive coverage of WWE Backlash across its platforms throughout the week, featuring “creative imagery, strategic account distribution, and vertical video content.” The social coverage will also include key moments, behind-the-scenes access, and fan engagement across ESPN’s social platforms.

ESPN also plans to continue rolling out long-form content that was created during WrestleMania 42 last month. The new content includes Highlights with Omar featuring Rhea Ripley and Katie Feeney’s 5 Steps to Become a WWE Superstar. Per the press release, ESPN is planning to deliver more episodes of the 3 Count series with Cody Rhodes across its social platforms.

ESPN’s WWE coverage will also feature “talent-led messaging and consistent ESPN Unlimited visibility, with streaming calls-to-action integrated across priority social touchpoints.”

As previously noted, the first hour of WWE Backlash Tampa will be simulcast on ESPN2. The opening hour will feature Trick Williams vs. Sami Zayn for the WWE US Title, and also Seth Rollins vs. Bron Breakker.

WWE Backlash Tampa emanates from the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, Florida on May 9. It will air on the ESPN App in the US and on Netflix internationally.