As the dust settles from WWE Backlash 2025, fans can look forward to an action-packed edition of Monday Night RAW, set to air on May 12 from the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. WWE has already confirmed three high-profile matches for the show, each with its own share of backstory and implications.
AJ Styles faces Finn Balor after judgment day tension
One of the night’s main attractions is a singles bout between AJ Styles and Finn Balor, two former Bullet Club leaders whose paths now cross under very different circumstances. The match was set up during a tense backstage segment on this week’s RAW, where Styles informed Dominik Mysterio of his intentions to challenge for the Intercontinental Championship - regardless of whether Mysterio or Penta walks out of Backlash as champion.
In response, Dominik turned to Balor for backup. Although Balor initially bristled at being seen as someone’s enforcer, he eventually agreed with a smirk - highlighting the ongoing friction within The Judgment Day. With both men holding long-standing grudges and international reputations, the showdown between Styles and Balor could have serious title implications.
Creed Brothers take on War Raiders in tag team clash
Another major match announced for RAW features the powerhouse duo of Julius and Brutus Creed (American Made) going up against former tag champs Erik and Ivar, collectively known as The War Raiders. After losing their titles to The New Day at WrestleMania, the War Raiders are looking to reassert themselves as top contenders.
Meanwhile, The New Day approached Chad Gable backstage, arguing that the Creed Brothers deserved a shot at the gold before the War Raiders get a rematch. The outcome of this match could determine who moves up in the title picture on the red brand.
Women’s division heats up with tag team showdown
In a highly anticipated women’s tag match, current Women’s World Champion Iyo Sky will team up with Rhea Ripley to take on rising stars Roxanne Perez and Giulia. The match stems from a heated sequence on RAW where Sky defeated Perez, only to be blindsided by Giulia after a deceptive show of sportsmanship.
With tensions already running high in the women’s division and WrestleMania fallout still fresh, expect this tag team bout to deliver intensity and perhaps spark new rivalries heading into the summer.
For now the confirmed matches are:
- AJ Styles vs Finn Balor
- War Raiders vs Creed Brothers
- Iyo Sky & Rhea Ripley vs Roxanne Perez & Giulia
Fans can expect more developments following Backlash, with surprises likely in store.