Cody Rhodes Defeats AJ Styles at WWE Backlash – Cody Rhodes successfully defended the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against AJ Styles in the main event of WWE Backlash France. This victory marks Rhodes’ first successful televised title defense since winning the championship from Roman Reigns at WrestleMania XL, a reign lasting 27 days.

In a hard-fought battle, Rhodes secured the win by executing a Cody Cutter off the top rope followed by a Cross Rhodes, sealing the victory and retaining his title. AJ Styles had earned his title shot by triumphing in a tournament, defeating Kevin Owens and Rey Mysterio in a triple threat match before emerging victorious against LA Knight in the finals.

Cody Rhodes Defeats AJ Styles at WWE Backlash