WWE Backlash 2026: IYO SKY vs. Asuka at Backlash Has Women’s Match of the Year Written All Over It

IYO SKY versus Asuka at WWE Backlash 2026 in Tampa on May 9 is the match with the highest pure in-ring ceiling on the entire card — and the former Kabuki Warriors partnership turned rivalry gives it genuine emotional weight alongside the technical excellence both women are capable of delivering. The match was set up in the weeks following WrestleMania 42 when IYO SKY interrupted Becky Lynch’s promo, drawing Asuka into the picture and officially fracturing whatever remained of the Kabuki Warriors alliance.

IYO SKY vs. Asuka WWE Backlash 2026 Preview — Former Partners Collide in Tampa

IYO SKY enters as a -700 favorite with Asuka at +400 — a significant gap that reflects the momentum IYO has built since WrestleMania 42 weekend. But Asuka is precisely the kind of opponent who makes odds feel unreliable. She is a former Raw Women’s Champion whose combination of aggressive striking, submission ability, and ring intelligence makes her dangerous against anyone on the WWE roster regardless of storyline positioning.

The match carries an additional layer of intrigue through the unresolved Toni Storm mystery, with Mina Shirakawa having pointed her suspicions toward Asuka as the person behind Storm’s attack. A dominant IYO SKY victory would make the clearest statement yet that she belongs at the very top of WWE’s women’s division. Given the history between these two and the quality both are capable of, this match has genuine match of the night potential at Backlash.