Sports
Drew McIntyre Sends Bold Message Ahead of WWE Backlash

Dayton, Ohio — WWE SmackDown on May 9 started with a tag team match featuring LA Knight and Damian Priest against Solo Sikoa and United States Champion Jacob Fatu. The match set the stage for Fatu’s title defense at Backlash.
As the match unfolded, tensions rose between Knight and Priest, highlighting their egos. Meanwhile, Sikoa faltered, making him the weakest link. Victory came to Knight and Priest when Knight reversed Sikoa’s attempt at a Spike into his BFT finisher, earning a pinfall for the win.
Post-match, Fatu capitalized on the continuing friction between Knight and Priest, attacking both competitors. Just when it seemed Fatu would gain the upper hand, Drew McIntyre entered and delivered a Claymore kick, sending a clear message to the champion.
Later in the show, McIntyre addressed Fatu, mocking his “all gas, no brakes” motto. McIntyre emphasized that Knight and Priest do not deserve a spot in the title match that he believes he rightfully earned.
Fans will see if McIntyre’s bold statement impacts the upcoming four-way match for the U.S. title at Backlash, which also includes Priest, Knight, and Fatu. The stakes are high as McIntyre gears up to reclaim the gold.