The WWE Payback premium live event is just around the corner, and the anticipation is soaring as some of WWE’s top Superstars prepare to collide in a night filled with grudges, rivalries, and championship ambitions. While luminaries like Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes are not on the match card, the spotlight shines on a lineup of talented performers eager to prove their mettle in the squared circle. With each bout fueled by heated rivalries, WWE Payback promises a night of thrilling action, and the coveted WWE World Heavyweight Championship and WWE Women’s World Championship are among the glittering prizes at stake.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the WWE Payback 2023 match card, including the projected order of matches and a breakdown of the most compelling contests to watch.
Event Details:
- Where: PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh
- When: Saturday, September 2, at 8 p.m. ET
- How to Watch: Peacock
WWE Payback 2023 Match Card and Projected Order:
1. Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Steel City Street Fight:
- Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn (c) vs. The Judgment Day (Damian Priest & Finn Balor)
2. United States Championship:
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- Rey Mysterio (c) vs. Austin Theory
3. Steel Cage Match:
- Becky Lynch vs. Trish Stratus
4. LA Knight vs. The Miz
5. WWE Women’s World Championship:
- Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Raquel Rodriguez
6. WWE World Heavyweight Championship:
- Seth Rollins (c) vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
Top Payback Matches to Watch:
Seth Rollins vs. Shinsuke Nakamura: A Clash of Titans
In what is likely to be the main event of WWE Payback, Seth Rollins is poised to defend his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against the rejuvenated Shinsuke Nakamura. Nakamura’s surprising heel turn against Rollins injected a newfound aggression and violence into The King of Strong Style’s persona, setting the stage for a hard-hitting showdown. Nakamura’s focus on targeting Rollins’ compromised back adds an extra layer of intrigue, and their encounter promises to be a spectacle capable of stealing the show.
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Rhea Ripley vs. Raquel Rodriguez: Friends Turned Foes
Rhea Ripley, the dominant WWE Women’s World Champion, faces off against her former friend, Raquel Rodriguez. Their real-life friendship and past chemistry in NXT have created heightened expectations for their clash. Rodriguez, one of the few women in WWE who can match Ripley’s strength, poses a genuine threat to The Nightmare’s title reign. This matchup is not just about championship gold; it’s a battle between two powerful forces in the women’s division.
Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn vs. The Judgment Day: Seeking Retribution
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn are out for retribution as they defend their undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships against Damian Priest and Finn Balor. The Judgment Day’s ruthless attacks have targeted Owens and Zayn for weeks, leading to a highly anticipated showdown. The Steel City Street Fight stipulation promises a thrilling encounter, while tensions within The Judgment Day add an intriguing layer to the story. Will Owens and Zayn retain their titles, or will Priest and Balor find unity amidst the chaos?
As WWE Payback approaches, the stage is set for a night of intense battles, personal vendettas, and championship aspirations. The WWE Universe can expect a rollercoaster of emotions and unforgettable moments as these Superstars leave it all in the ring on Saturday night.