WWE Backlash 2026 Kickoff show: How to watch, start timings, date, venue, and more

WWE Backlash 2026 is the next major event set to take place on May 9 in Tampa, Florida. Much like every Premium Live Event, it will be preceded by a kickoff show, also known as the 'Countdown show', to build excitement for the main event. It will feature panelists giving their take on the match card and rivalries heading into the event, as well as appearances from WWE superstars. So, here is a deep look into the WWE Backlash 2026 kickoff show start timings, date, venue, and how to watch the show.The Countdown to WWE Backlash 2026 will air on the same date as the main show, i.e., May 9, from the Benchmark International Center in Tampa, Florida.The WWE Backlash 2026 kickoff show will air on the ESPN app and WWE's YouTube channel before the main event starts.The WWE Backlash 2026 kickoff show will air in local time zones across different countries.It was confirmed that the Greatest of All Time, John Cena, will be appearing at the main WWE Backlash 2026 PLE, which will air right after the kickoff show. The Cenation Leader, however, has not been confirmed to appear at the kickoff show. Furthermore, Cena is set to deliver a 'history-making' announcement at the main show, which will be exciting to witness.Apart from the backstage interviewers and panelists, the superstars announced to compete at WWE Backlash 2026 are likely to appear at the kickoff show:Also read: WWE Backlash 2026: Full schedule, start timings, how to watch, and more